Here at IndulgeYourPet, we tend to be fans of two types of animals. Those that are just too cute to ignore and those that have a “look” about them that says…
“I can take care of myself!”
And sometimes, which is why, when we encounter a breed like the Singapura, we pretty much know right away, regardless of what “kind” of personality these guys might have, that we’re probably going to like this breed. After all, look at these guys! What with their “buggy” eyes and sleek muscular build? It’s not hard to imagine these guys creeping around in the middle of the night, hunting down their next meal while looking a bit “freakishly” cute. And yes, around here at IndulgeYourPet, earning the title “Freakishly cute” is a huge compliment.
But just because…
We’re BIG fans of the Singapura cat breed, but it doesn’t mean that you’ll automatically be one, too. This is why we wanted to take a moment and discuss what it might be like to own one of these guys so that if you’re ever allowed to get your hands on one, you’ll know if doing so is a good move for you or not! So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.
Singapura Cat Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Singapore
Size: Small
Weight: 7 to 9 pounds
Eyes: Large almond shape (hazel, green or yellow)
Shape of Head: Round
Lifespan: 9 to 15 years
Origin of Singapura cat
The “origin” of the Singapura cat remains somewhat of a mystery because while it is true that they “appear” to have been first “discovered” on the streets of Singapore, not much else is known about them. Some theorize that they are the “offspring” of Abyssinian and Burmese cats, but at the end of the day, nobody knows. Some even question if they originated from Singapore at all!
What is known is…
In the early 1970s, these cats began to be imported from Singapore to the United States, where they were quickly appreciated by many local cat breeders, including Hal and Tommy Meadow, who would prove instrumental in their early development within the United States and ultimately become accepted by both The Cat Fanciers Association in 1988 and The International cat Association in 1979.
Physical Characteristics
The Singapura cat is small. They weigh only about 4 to 8 pounds. But you’ll find they have huge eyes and big, pointed ears for such small bodies. Their bodies and legs are also quite muscular, but their feet are tiny! Aside from the fact that they have huge eyes and ears, their feet, which are oval with rosy brown paws, are often another great way to differentiate this breed from other similar-looking cat breeds.
As for their coat…
It is short but surprisingly thick! It will have a smooth texture that feels like you’re running your hand along silk. It’s a sepia-toned (dark brown) coat. This breed also has a distinctive feature known as cheetah lines. These cheetah lines look like mascara. They start at their eyebrows and go down until the outside corners of their eyes. From there, the line extends from the corner of their eyes to their nose, and finally, it goes around their lips.
Their eyes (which will always be very large) can be:
- Green,
- Hazel,
- Or yellow,
And their nose is a pale to dark salmon color.
Temperament and Personality
The Singapura cat is mischievous. They’re very curious and will explore constantly to see what they can find. They’re always investigating what type of new things they can learn and what kind of trouble they can get into. They’re also somewhat cynical creatures who will watch anything you do. They know what you’re thinking before you do, so if you’re trying to get them to do something they don’t want to, they’ll probably end up walking away from you to avoid it.
They’re also…
Very active and playful. They love to play with just about anything they find, whether that be toys or random objects lying around in your home. Any kitchen utensils and keyboards are some of their favorites. They’re cats that like to play until they’re old. Combine this with the fact that they’re brilliant and love to be challenged with toys that make them think, and by learning new tricks, you’ll get an amusing cat to own.
That is, of course…
You love cats who like to interact with people because Singapura cats are social pets, and they love people. They’re not shy or hesitant to meet new people but are cautious. It takes a hot minute for them to trust someone. They also get along with other pets, but other Singapura cats are their favorite. Still, they should always have company, whether in the form of a human or an animal. They don’t like being alone. It sounds like they contradict themselves with what they want and dislike regarding people, but they’re just special! You have to go along with whatever they’re feeling.
Children, however, are not their favorite. The reason is that they don’t like loud noises. It makes them nervous, and unless your child is calm, you should supervise them. Not really for your kid’s sake, but for your cats!
These guys are also…
They are pretty empathetic pets who’ll try to make you feel better if they sense you’re having a bad day. They’ll do this by resting on your lap or perching on your shoulder, one of their favorite places to stand.
Potential Health Concerns
Some cats have hereditary diseases, and the Singapura cat is no different. This breed is prone to getting a genetic disorder known as pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD). Female Singapura’s are also prone to a condition called uterine inertia. This means the cat can’t deliver unless by cesarean section because they have weak muscles along the uterus.
And while…
Indeed, these diseases are not necessarily life-threatening; most, if not all, can become quite expensive to treat, particularly if they recur. This is why we here at IndulgeYourPet always advise any new pet owner to take a moment and see what it might cost to purchase a pet insurance policy for their new loved one. If they ever become sick or injured in the future, you won’t be on the “hook” for 100% of the cost of treatment.
For more information on who we “feel” currently offers some of the “best” pet insurance policies on the market, check out our Best Pet Insurance Companies article.
