General Information:

Height/Length: Medium
Weight: 9-10 lbs.
Life Span: Approximately 10 years
Coloring: Bicolor or tricolor white, black, red, blue, cream, with or without tabby striping.
Area of Origin: Greece
Similar Breeds: Turkish Van, Angora, American Wirehair

Breed History and Origins:

The Aegean cat is a natural breed native to the Cyclades, the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, which is where they get their name from. The Aegean seems to be the only cat breed native to Greece. These cats ended up in mainland Greece through ancient Greek fishermen who would sail from island to island regularly. Humans did not get involved in their breeding; instead, they developed on their own with no human intervention. This specific breed is rare outside Greece, but they are numerous in their home country where they are considered a natural treasure. Aegeans can be easily spotted in the beautiful Greece begging for food and hanging out around the fishermen.

It is considered to be one of the oldest breeds of domesticated cats, but it was not until about 20 years ago that they were first declared a true breed. The Greek Cat Fancier Club was established in the early 1990s. It was then when the first efforts were made to begin breeding Aegean cats.

Today, the Aegean breed is finally being recognized by numerous large cat clubs but yet to be recognized by some registries such as The Cat Fanciers Association or The International Cat Association. They are slowly becoming famous and known in America and Europe.

Size and Physical Characteristics:

The Aegean is a medium sized, strong cat with a muscular build covered with a semi-long coating of white, black, red, blue, or cream hair. White is one of its main colors covering up most of the body. It is silky, with no undercoat, and has a medium-full collar. Their bodies are slender and athletic, weighing around 9 to 10 pounds without giving the impression of being heavy or obese. A perfect fit for a medium home or apartment! Their legs are strong matching its body. The feet are medium sized as well and with round-shaped fluffy paws.

Aegean cat’s eyes have a lovely almond shape and can appear in several shades of green, blue or yellow that stand out the most. The tail is of average length with abundant straight hair without kinks or curves. It’s has a medium sized head that is wide but not totally round. The ears are wide on the base and rounded at the tips and are covered by small hairs on the inner side.

This cat has been able to adapt to local climate. In winter its full coat protects it from the cold weather, while in the summer it sheds and looks like a type of a short-hair breed except for the tail which remains moderately full. Combinations of any pattern and colors are acceptable for this breed, except for color-points, which prove cross-breeding with other races.

Personality and Temperament:

The Aegean cat is appreciated for its friendly character and intelligence. They tend to be independent, active, social, and communicative with their owners. In general, they enjoy a good relationship with humans and are friendly toward people. These charming creatures are also very capable predators; that is why they are appreciated as the best method of pest control in rural areas of Greece.

These cats can be excellent pets for families with children because they love toddlers and their playfulness. The Aegean Cat usually likes being part of the family and is an appropriate pet to most types of homes. They adjust to apartment living as well. However, they do not adjust quickly. It is not unusual to see them act strange for a while after moving or when first brought to a new home. Once this phase is over, they will even stop whatever they are doing to greet new visitors coming to your home!

This breed appreciates having access to an enclosed outdoor area where they can climb or lie out in the sun, but they shouldn’t be left outside to roam. Considering they are quite independent, owners that enjoy interacting with their cat a few times a week will enjoy this breed. They love snuggling, showing affection and waking up their owners each morning for playtime. The Aegean cat will keep itself entertained when alone. This cat breed makes a very fun playmate for owners. Aegean cats love to be around dogs too, considering them as family. They are slightly more intelligent than other cat breeds so they won’t make bad decisions very often.

Thanks to their island upbringing, it is natural form them to not be afraid of water like most cats. These lovely felines love to fish even on their own. This is the type of cat you want if you have always wished for a fishing buddy. If you have an aquarium or pond, consider protecting it from this curious cat with fishing paws.

Nutritional and Exercise needs:

Diet is very important for cats for it will determine overall health. A healthy coat, teeth, body weight and energy level will depend almost completely on what they are fed. Cats generally are carnivores, so fresh meat is always the best option. One of its primary food sources is fish, so be sure to provide it now and then. The amount fed depends on weight, activity and age. The type of food depends on the owner but make sure to provide quality and enough water if dry kibble is your choice. If their food is canned verify that only a few fillers are added.

When cats are indoors most of the time, they might not get enough exercise. Despite this, Aegean cats are active. Cats have an evolutionary advantage of having a fast metabolism that works even when they are lying down. Anyway, it’s good to engage your cats in some type of daily activity to help maintain a healthy body weight and keep muscles strong and lean. This benefits the mind as well, keeping it alert and active. Exercise is also a fun way and a good opportunity for you to bond with your pet.

You may be able to set up an area especially for your cat to climb and play around. Cat trees and scratching posts can also be used for this purpose. Cat jungle gyms can be bought at a local pet store or you could build one yourself! Kittens and younger cats will usually take the initiative to begin playing with you or they will start to entertain themselves. You should try to spend about 10-15 minutes a day with your cat engaged in some type of physical activity. Spending time with children is one activity these cats will not only get exercise from but will also enjoy.

Grooming and Upkeep:

As a part of its adaptation process, Aegean cats typically shed excess hair in spring to go through the hot summers and maintain a full coat during winter to protect it from the cold weather. However, cats that live indoors tend to shed a little year-round. Due to artificial light and temperature conditions their fur’s growth cycle is affected.

Aegean cats need little or no grooming with a wire slicker brush. Their coats need less brushing because they like to polish their fur, as most felines do. Occasional brushing is advised to keep its coat looking good. It helps stimulate circulation, massages, and removes debris. If provided with proper nutrition, occasional grooming, and keeping a small area for shedding, like a pet bed, the shedding will be minimized and manageable. Nail trimming and ear cleaning is required regularly. Often brushing of teeth at home with an appropriate pet toothpaste, and scheduling veterinary dental cleanings is sometimes necessary. The earlier you began to brush, trim its nails and brush its teeth, the better your kitten will start to accept these activities.

Characteristics unique to the breed:

People easily fall in love with this curious companion. Their name is pronounced “ih-jee-uhn”. Aegean cats are one of the few breeds that enjoy being near water and is not afraid of it! They are fish lovers and can go fishing for themselves. It is also important to mention their exceptional ability at hunting and keeping rodents away.

This is a breed that was developed wildly with no human interference and it’s the only one native to Greece. It can also be more talkative with its owner than other breeds. Aegean cats are active and love to play with children, making them an excellent pet option for families with kids. These cats are gentle and friendly with dogs too.

Aegean cats are very intelligent and easy to train when young. They won’t get in trouble too often. They are always ready to make you smile and feel accompanied.

Advantages of Agean Cats

• Require little maintenance
• Generally very healthy
• Very intelligent
• Affectionate
• Exceptional hunters
• Good Fishers

Challenges of Aegean Cats

• Moderate shedding
• Not hypoallergenic

Health and Wellness:

Fortunately, this breed is generally healthy because they are not products of selective breeding so they may be less likely to carry genetic diseases. It does not have many known illnesses and conditions as other cats, being very convenient for owners who do not want to worry about long-term medical high costs. Annual exams, vaccinations, heart-worm prevention and flea and tick prevention are recommended. Initially make sure to deworm your cat and run basic blood tests as early diagnosis is always the best. Keep in mind that a good diet and regular exercise is always the best prevention.

Being a pet, it is somewhat common for them to suffer some types of eye problems, diarrhea and fleas. Allergic reactions are not common, but they may affect some people with cat allergies that come in contact with the Aegean Cat breed. Be sure to consult a veterinarian of your choice for routine care and medical advice for your cat.

Seven Interesting Facts about Aegean cats:

• Aegean cats are known as great hunters and mousers.
• These cats are not afraid of water and can fish.
• The Aegean is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.
• The Aegean is an extremely rare breed.
• Only natural Greek breed.
• Developed naturally with no human help.
• Aegean cats are very communicative.