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The American Wirehair or American Wirehaired Cat is a young cat breed. This type of cat belongs to the domestic cat category. Below you will find all the important details about this American house cat.
History and Origin of the American Wirehair
This cat breed came about by accident. Actually, a genetic defect is to blame. In 1966, in a litter of American Shorthair cats, one male had an atypical coat. The coat of hair was rough, wiry, and curled at the tips. The cat breeder lived in Verona, New York State. The insecure man showed this specimen to a local breeder friend. This took over the red and white cat and gave him the name “Council Rock Farm Adam of Hifi”. Adam then became the progenitor of a new race. Mating with a litter sister (Tip-Toe of Hifi) started a breeding program. The dominant gene was passed on. This coat characteristic is most evident in offspring from a mating of two American Wirehairs. To avoid hereditary diseases, American Shorthairs are still crossed today.
The recognition of this new breed of cats dragged on. At least it was registered in 1967. Recognition by the “Cat Fanciers Association” did not come until 1978. This recognition brought no breakthrough. There are some fans of this particular breed in the US and Canada. In Europe, it is still largely unknown.
Essence and Character
The American Wirehaired Cat is uncomplicated in nature. She loves to play and is affectionate. Another important property is tolerance. This makes it well suited for living together with children and conspecifics. Your social streak is also evident in living with dogs. The dog’s adjustment phase should begin as early as puppy age. You can promote intelligence with suitable toys.
The Appearance of the American Wirehair
The American Wirehair cat cannot deny its relationship with the American Shorthair cat. The body is powerful and muscular. It is carried by medium-length legs. The end is oval paws. A strong chest is a prerequisite for good lung capacity. The head is round. The big eyes dominate the face. These are far apart and are a bit slanted. The high cheekbones with the concise snout complete the picture. The tail is set high and is of normal length. However, the typical coat only develops within the first four months of life. The coat pattern is more intense in tomcats. The wiry coat is possible and permitted in all color shades, except for point, chocolate, cinnamon, or lilac. Depending on the sex, the height is between 30 and 35 cm and the weight is between 2.5 and 5 kg.
Attitude and Care
Outdoor cat or indoor cat?
The American Wirehair is suitable for both types of keeping. Ideally, you live in a rural area. Here your tiger can become a free roamer without hindrance. Assuming she wants that too. Some cats just sit in the open window of the garden and just enjoy the opportunity. You’ll find that out quickly. Ask the neighbors if they see your tiger outside the yard.
Do you worry a lot when she’s out? Then offer your darling a compromise. Fences part of the garden (similar to a bird aviary). Of course with free access to the house. If your pedigree cat knows the apartment as a living space from an early age, then nothing is missing. Another possibility would be an additional cat-proof balcony. If you live in an apartment, you won’t have any problems with the neighbors. The voice volume is quiet. In contrast to the voice volume of Siamese cats. The whole neighborhood hears these “chatty” fellows. No matter what you decide. Remember: An indoor cat can become an outdoor cat. An outdoor cat will never become a purely indoor cat again. This applies to any type of cat, including the American Wirehair.
Grooming and feeding
Despite the special appearance, grooming is not expensive. Once a week, brushing through the fur is sufficient. Your cat will do the rest. With her rough tongue, she removes the dead hair. Support your tiger with cat grass to get rid of the swallowed hairballs.
Species-appropriate feeding is not expensive. However, you should pay attention to healthy ingredients. Your future roommate is a carnivore. The cat’s digestive system can therefore not do much with carbohydrates. The ideal combination is muscle meat and offal. The obligation to declare can help you in your search for the right food. Some manufacturers classify the offal as “animal by-products”. But here, too, manufacturers are becoming more customer-friendly. Another possibility would be Barfen for you. As a beginner, however, you must inform yourself extensively. As a professional, you can manage your daily nutrient and protein needs. No matter which feeding you choose, your cat is the end-user and has to stay healthy.