Chausie

Breed Description

One of the youngest breeds, with roots that trace back to a distant past. In the modern world, it has been known since around the 1990s, so reliable information about the chausi (also known as hausi, shausi, or chausi) is scarce. Therefore, there are many myths and legends online that do not correspond to reality.

Thus, the modern history of the breed begins with the breeders’ main goal of creating a hybrid of the wild swamp cat and domestic cat. This was necessary to develop true chausi.

There is no point in looking for advertisements for swamp cat kittens in our country, as they existed long ago in vast territories from North Africa to India and Southeast Asia, including Vietnam.

Domesticated Felis catus (swamp cats) are depicted in many ancient Egyptian frescoes. However, wild cats (Felis chaus), referred to in some sources as jungle cats, also lived in Egypt. They kept their distance from humans, hunted independently, and avoided people like all wild animals.

The first hybrids are indeed the result of breeding wild and domestic cats, which periodically appeared in the homes of ancient Egyptians thousands of years ago.

Today, some specialists suggest a similar situation in India and Southeast Asia, associating the ticked stripes in coloration with this theory. However, there are no confirmed facts to support this.The first chausi specimens in modern times were obtained in the early 1970s. They were offered to cat enthusiasts dreaming of acquiring an exotic cat with the gentle nature of a domestic pet. This was a much safer alternative to keeping a domesticated wild animal at home. As time went on, the exterior and temperament improved more and more. Initially, swamp cats were crossed with various domestic breeds, but nowadays, they can only be bred with the Abyssinian short-haired cat.Thus, in 1995, TICA registered the chausi. Since then, more and more cat lovers around the world wish to choose a kitten from a breeding facility. Since 2003, the chausi has been striving for championship breed status, which seems achievable given the experts’ forecasts and its growing popularity.It should be noted that keeping a chausi in a city apartment is not recommended. Additionally, when living with a swamp puma in a country house, a number of safety requirements must be followed.

Appearance

A special type of cat, with a vast range from the Nile Valley to the Caspian Sea. The swamp cat can also be found in South Asia, reaching as far as Vietnam. At Zoonika, the best selection of catteries in Russia that breed this breed, sometimes referred to as the marsh lynx, is available.

It is a long-legged, untamed cat designed for hunting, capable of high jumps and swift chases. Additionally, it possesses a particular grace and stature. Larger compared to other breeds, it belongs to animals with an ectomorphic body type and reaches 155 cm when measured from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail. With a shoulder height of 45-50 cm and a weight of up to 15 kg, they are very rare and expensive. Their average lifespan is 14-16 years. However, modern individuals from subsequent generations are generally smaller, with a weight often not exceeding 6-7 kg.

Advertisements for the sale of Chausie kittens highlight their high price, which in Russia reaches 450-500 thousand rubles for a purebred kitten. Regardless of the region of residence, all Chausies possess a flexibility that imparts a sense of grace and balance. They have a broad chest that allows for deep breathing, giving the impression of an unlimited source of energy. Their temperament is gentle; they are intelligent and quickly learn. Despite their wild roots, they are curious and enjoy playing like kittens. Their inclination toward human companionship is also striking.

Отличительные черты

Голова

It resembles a modified wedge more. From the front, it appears not too wide. The forehead is sloped, and there are well-developed brow ridges above the eyes. The cheekbones are distinctly emphasized (especially in males). The muzzle is long, the cheekbones are full, the nose is slightly swollen, and there is a strong chin.

Морда

Extended, with smooth contours. A straight and quite long and wide bridge of the nose, which slightly rises before the tip. Moreover, at the forehead between the eyes, there is a slight widening. The chin is strong, both from the front and in profile.

Уши

Large, broad at the base. The tips of the ears are rounded and may have tufts of fur like a lynx. There can be a lot of fur on the inside, but its absence is not a drawback. The inner edges of the base at the top are approximately two adult human fingers apart from each other.

Глаза

Medium or slightly smaller in size. Almond-shaped. The cornea is preferably yellow, but can range from amber to nut brown. A light green color of the cornea is also acceptable. Positioned on the muzzle at a slight angle to the outer edge of the ear.

Зубы

They have a typical structure common to all felines. Their anatomy is designed for processing food and capturing prey during hunting. Most often, they have a scissor bite, where the upper teeth (incisors, canines) align precisely with the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Some variations in the bite, such as a scissors bite, can also occur.

Корпус

Stretched, large, rectangular in shape, quite muscular and powerful, but not cumbersome. The chest is of medium width, however, quite deep. A straight, strong, and flexible back, with a slightly arched lower back. A strong and not too long neck.

Конечности

Long and slender front and hind legs with well-developed musculature. There is a distinctive "hollow" in the abdomen area closer to the groin, which makes them more mobile and flexible when running and jumping. This is a unique anatomical feature of the breed. The paw pads are quite large, wide, and oval-shaped. Additionally, these cats do not curl their toes but keep them spread apart.

Хвост

Long, nearly the same length but no less than 75% of the body length. Moreover, a shorter size is preferred. It slightly narrows towards the end, but is not pointed. Disqualification occurs due to tails that are too short, curved, or have knots and breaks.

Шерсть

Short, but its length allows you to see two stripes of ticking. It feels very soft to the touch, is thick, and fits snugly against the cat's body, with a sufficiently dense undercoat. Moreover, the guard hairs are only slightly longer than it. Its shine is considered a litmus test for good health.

Окрас

Мышино-серый: основание от песочно-серого до красновато-золотого, затем две-три полоски темного тикинга. Полосы предпочтительны на хвосте, в верхней части, на внутренней части передних ног и до скакательного сустава на задних ногах. На шее может быть узор в виде ожерелья. На тыльной стороне ушей имеются светлые пятна. Допускаются слабые полоски на теле маленьких котят до 12 месяцев. Черный: сплошной черный. Черный гризли тикированный полосатый: узор, доставшийся от диких камышовых кошек. Остевой волос заметно светлее у основания, затем череда тёмного и светлого тикинга и тёмный кончик. Мочка носа при таком окрасе полностью черного цвета. Вполне нормально, небольшое "поседение" котят до 12 месяцев.

Character

There are many completely different breeds of cats, the description of which begins with the word “special.” The Chausie is a cat whose character can truly be described as “special.” The combination of wild and domestic traits in them is balanced in such a way that their owners often feel like the masters of a wild cougar that adores them.

Chausies have a lively and active temperament. They are curious and constantly seek something new for their fun and adventures. Domestic cougars enjoy active play, love to jump, and climb high. Physical exercise is vital for them, and a cat wheel and other toys and accessories can greatly assist in this.

Their high intelligence is notable, which makes Chausies one of the quicker-learning breeds. If you decide to adopt a kitten from a cattery, keep in mind that it can indeed learn various tricks and commands. The blood of their wild ancestors has endowed them with excellent hunting skills, which they can display when necessary.

Regarding their relationships with children, conflicts rarely arise. They show patience during play and can become great companions for kids. However, as with any household pets, it’s essential to supervise their interactions, especially with young children. An accidental mishap could harm the animal and result in defensive behavior.

Short-lived conflicts may occur with other pets if there’s any sign of disrespect towards the Chausie. It’s nearly impossible to scare this cat; one can only befriend it. Unfortunately, birds, fish, and rodents should stay as far away as possible. With dogs, however, a brotherly friendship is quite possible, especially when a puppy arrives later.

There is no universal description of their character; each animal has its own traits and tendencies. Some Chausies may be more independent, while others are affectionate and enjoy solitude. Proper socialization and attention from the owner ensure a happy and harmonious life together.It’s worth emphasizing that despite their love for those close to them, they are not the type to snuggle in their owner’s lap while watching TV. Instead, they are likely to observe everything from a higher hiding place.

Care and Maintenance

Chausies, or chausees, are primarily about size, activity, and curiosity. Therefore, one of the most important tasks for the owner is to ensure access to outdoor walks and their safety. This breed is not suitable for living in tight urban apartments; even large rooms will feel cramped for them. However, if you’ve decided to buy a kitten from a breeder while living in a country house, ensure that the surrounding area is fenced. While the kitten is still young, a high fence around the property will suffice. But adult chausies are very clever and can easily jump over even a tall fence by climbing a nearby tree. This must be taken into account and prepared for in advance: install additional fencing around the property, and you can purchase vertical climbing structures for cats inside the home, allowing the cat to leap across shelves on the walls.

Without regular physical exercise, their temperament will begin to deteriorate. Maximum activity helps them feel well. Playing with family members strengthens the relationships among all participants. Older owners can use a laser pointer for their cat to chase. One of their favorite toys is a ball.

The intelligence of chausies requires stimulation. Today, there is a wide variety of puzzle games for cats. Such activities bring joy to all participants, and positive reinforcement when tasks are successfully completed further stimulates the pet.

What should you feed a chausee? The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem at first. It cannot be said that they are picky about their diet. However, a powerful and energetic domestic predator needs the best. This requires stable nutrient content rather than a variety of menu options. Like ordinary domestic cats, they are suited for super-premium commercial foods or holistic diets. But remember that their wild ancestors had shorter intestines, so early generations of chausies may face serious digestive problems if fed regular cat food or low-quality natural food, leading to food allergies and intestinal inflammation. This causes immense suffering for the animal and endless trips to veterinary clinics and bills for tests and treatments for the owners. The best solution is to feed them the same diet as that of the breeder from whom the kitten was purchased.

Regular visits to the veterinary clinic, adherence to deworming schedules, and timely vaccinations are essential for ensuring the pet’s good health. An experienced veterinarian can recognize diseases at an early stage and prevent threats.

It is crucial for chausies to undergo proper socialization and interact actively throughout their lives. They are very social cats and need playtime and tactile contact with humans. Plus, positive communication, such as hearing a gentle tone from the owner, has a beneficial effect on their nervous system.Grooming their fur is quite simple, which is an undeniable advantage of chausies over Persian cats. Regular brushing is necessary. A furminator, available at any pet store, works excellently for removing dead hair, making the process enjoyable for the cat.Don’t forget about hygienic care for the ears. Clean the inner surface with cotton pads at least once a week. Avoid using cotton swabs as they can damage the eardrum. A cotton pad and a special lotion will suffice.Chausies are large cats with razor-sharp claws. Even with a scratching post available, they still need claw trimming. About a third of the claw should be cut off with a special tool as it grows. Regular scissors won’t be strong enough, so purchase claw clippers. The modern trend of “soft paws,” or declawing, is a decision left to each individual owner, but we cannot recommend this surgery.Eye

Training and Education

These are truly very intelligent cats with enormous potential for learning new things. Training a Chausie is incredibly exciting if approached correctly. Their curiosity is well-known to anyone who has dealt with them. Therefore, choosing a kitten from a cattery means acquiring a pet that is always in search of something new. This trait should be fully utilized by the owner during training.

Once the cat grasps the basic behaviors expected in the home, you can gradually move on to training. You should start with the simplest tasks. Jumping through a flaming hoop is something a Chausie can do, but that can come later.

You also need to be patient and consistent with your training. The simplest commands, even for a small swamp cougar, are “Fetch!” and “Bring it!”. They almost instinctively grasp and remember these commands during play. However, their passion for open spaces indicates that the owner must ensure the cat masters the commands “No!” and “Stop!”.

Despite your cat’s abilities, they still have a desire to roam on their own. While working with them, you need to be consistent, focused, and extremely patient. Expecting instant grasp of a trick is pointless.

It’s best to start training with your kitten at an early age. This will help them develop the habits you want and instill discipline. Consistency is one of the cornerstones of upbringing and training. Don’t forget the individuality of each cat. Moreover, you shouldn’t demand from your pet tasks that are beyond their capabilities. While their ancient ancestors were used for bird hunting by the water, it’s unlikely that this will be successful today. However, agility is within their reach. These cats feel most comfortable during training when they receive positive reinforcement immediately after successfully completing a skill. Gentle praise and petting should be paired with their favorite treat. But remember, they really love to eat, so don’t overdo it with the goodies.

You cannot intimidate or force a Chausie to do something. They will stand their ground, and the relationship with you will be compromised.

How to Choose a Kitten

Choosing a Chausie kitten is a responsible process that requires attention to several factors.

Study advertisements for kittens and select a reputable breeder that specializes in the Chausie breed. Try to find a breeder with a proven reputation that offers clear information about the parents and has a complete set of veterinary documents. Look for the best breeders in Russia where you can purchase a Chausie with a formally documented sales agreement.

Pay attention to the health of the kitten’s parents. Ask the breeder about genetic disease testing for the kitten’s parents.

Observe how the kitten interacts with its mother and other cats. Activity, curiosity, and trust in people are good indicators of proper socialization and a strong emotional bond with humans.

Note the physical characteristics of the breed. Chausies have a large and graceful physique, including long, slender legs, a low-hanging tail, and powerful muscles.

Gather as much information as possible about the offered kitten, including its pedigree, vaccinations, health certifications, and any breed-specific care requirements.

Health and Diseases

It is pleasant to realize that “domestic pumas” are renowned not only for their extraordinary appearance and temperament but also for having an excellent immune system. Strong muscles constantly need sustenance, so a properly balanced diet containing the necessary vitamins helps them maintain their health.

However, there is a downside to this-they are ready to swallow anything and often gain excess weight, which primarily affects their heart’s function.

Unfortunately, breeding Chausies is quite challenging due to the consistently occurring infertility. For this reason, purchasing a kitten from a breeder can only be done for a significant price, even though in our country there are advertisements for selling Chausie kittens at low costs.

Of course, vaccination and deworming have a beneficial effect on their health. Since cats love to roam in the fresh air, it is essential to treat them for ticks and fleas. Routine check-ups at the veterinary clinic help detect the development of diseases at early stages.

Sometimes, Chausies may be diagnosed with glaucoma, which can lead to complete blindness. Additionally, progressive retinal atrophy occurs, which can be recognized when the cat bumps into familiar objects at night that it can see during the day.

Polycystic kidney disease occurs much less frequently. This hereditary disease causes cysts to form on the kidneys. As a result, kidney function gradually decreases, leading to chronic kidney failure.Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is not considered a breed-specific disease, but it does occur in this breed as well. It is characterized by thickening of the heart walls and can lead to heart failure. Symptoms may include fatigue, difficulty breathing, and coughing.It is important to understand that the listed diseases do not affect all individuals of the Chausie breed, and the likelihood of their development can vary for each individual animal.Acquiring a Chausie kitten from a serious breeder who cares for the health of their animals may not be a cure-all, but it significantly reduces the risk of encountering breed-related diseases.