History and Origins
The California Spangled cat was developed by Paul Arnold Casey Jr. in the 1970s. Inspired by his trip to Tanzania and the plight of spotted wild cats, Casey aimed to create a breed that resembled a miniature leopard. The breed gained commercial recognition in 1986 when it was featured in the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalogue.
Physical Characteristics
The California Spangled is a medium-sized, athletic, and muscular cat. Its distinctive short spotted coat comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, silver, gold, blue, and white. Notably, this breed has prominent cheekbones, large whisker pads, and almond-shaped eyes that range from pale amber to deep copper.
Personality and Temperament
Known for being affectionate and social, the California Spangled loves engaging with family members. It is an intelligent and curious breed with a strong desire to participate in household activities. Fiercely loyal, it enjoys cuddling and interactive play, while its high energy levels reflect its hunting skill prowess.
Behavior and Training
This breed is highly athletic, capable of acrobatic jumps, and loves to climb and explore high places. The California Spangled can be trained to walk on a leash and respond to commands, making it an excellent pet for active families.
Health and Lifestyle
Generally considered a healthy breed, specific health issues are hard to determine due to its rarity. They have an average lifespan of 10-15 years. The California Spangled needs plenty of space to play, interactive toys, and companionship to thrive indoors, along with scratching posts.
Socialization and Family Suitability
This breed gets along well with other cats and dogs, given early socialization, although it may not be friendly with strange animals. Gentle and affectionate toward children of all ages, the California Spangled is suitable for active families, singles, and both apartment and house living.