General Information:

Height/Length: Medium
Weight: 8-15 lbs.
Life Span: 9-16 years.
Coloring: Spotted, tabby.
Area of Origin: U.S.A.
Similar Breeds: Manx, Abyssinian, American and British Shorthair

Breed History and Origins:

California Spangled cats have a unique history being originally bred by Paul Arnold Caser Jr., a physicist and a Hollywood playwright, author and screenwriter from Los Angeles. He brought this idea of breeding a cat with a wild appearance after returning from Tanzania, where he was working with Louis Leakey, an anthropologist, in the 1970s. In Casey’s novel, “Open the Coffin”, he describes his trip to Africa and inspiration for creating the California Spangled breed.

More specifically, in 1971, Casey found himself working at the Olduvai digs in Tanzania with Leakey, and was taken aback when he learned that poachers had recently killed one of the last leopards in the area. Together, they came up with the idea that if people owned a miniature version of a leopard, they would be more inclined to protect and conserve real leopards in Africa, thus preventing poaching.

Casey then adopted a systematic and scientific approach which later produced an 11^th-generation blueprint comprised of a female Traditional Siamese paired with a long-haired, silver spotted Angora. The result of this match was a silver colored male individual with block-shaped spots. To this blueprint individual cat, Casey added a mix of British Shorthair, American Shorthair, Abyssinian and spotted-brown tabby Manx in order to create a central bloodline. Each of these breeds were introduced according to a specific plan and the mating results were all recorded by computer. Street cats from Malay and Egypt were added last on the final generation of the breeding program with the intention of setting a wild appearance for the breed.

Finally by 1985 the sought after look was achieved and it immediately grabbed the attention of small groups of cat fanciers. Short after, Casey formed the California Spangled Cat Association (CSCA) with the sole purpose of protecting all endangered wild cats whilst promoting the Spangled Cat.

The California Spangled cats became quickly popular after being introduced to the public in 1986, through the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalog. It was a successful advertising campaign in which Casey sold each cat for $1,400. However, a few protests surged because the catalog also included fur coats made out of fox, beaver and ermine.

Despite the protests, these elegant cats became highly sought after commodities, especially since there were so few on the market at the time. The media would take every chance they could to interview proud California Spangled owners, all which helped Casey spread his message of conservation of wild cats.

After this explosive surge in popularity, Casey’s stock of cats became significantly depleted. With a later development of the Ocicat and Bengal breeds, California Spangled cats lost the spotlight. Nowadays, these cats are still rare and hard to find with only about 200 individuals around the world. They seem to be more popular abroad than in their native country and there are many breeders working towards making the California Spangled a more widespread cat.

With two International Grand Champions in Europe, the California Spangled cat is slowly making its way to recognition by The International Cat Association (TICA) and the American Cat Association (ACA).

Size and Physical Characteristics:

The rare and elegant California Spangled cats are medium sized, making them a choice pet over larger wild looking breeds such as the Bengal and Ocicat. Its body is lean, long, and muscular, and they can weigh anywhere between 8 and 15 lbs., at the most. Their shape almost seems cylindrical, which helps them move like hunters on the prowl in a low slung walk with their lengthy but strong legs.

These exotic looking cats are liked by many, especially for their bright but small, slightly almond shaped eyes that can vary between a pale amber and a deep copper color. Their head is round, with prominent cheekbones and a well-defined jawline. They have large whisker pads that tend to be lighter in color than the rest of their body. Ears are upright and high set on the top of the head and their tail is between medium and long in length, displaying even thickness its entire length.

When it comes to the California Spangled’s coat, the first thing that comes to your attention will be its leopard spots. Their coat is very short, having very fine, soft fur. In regards to their spots, they technically have a spotted tabby pattern that consists of blockish shaped spots which can also be round, oval, triangular or grouped in rosettes. They have tabby stripes on their head, throat and legs. Their tail also has dark rings around it and ends in a dark tip. California Spangled cats have a wide range in background and spot colors, which include black, blue, bronze, brown, gold, red, silver, white and charcoal. There’s also snow leopard Spangled cats, which are very rare and have white fur with black markings and striking blue eyes.

Personality and Temperament:

Despite their leopard appearance, California Spangled cats are completely domestic animals. These friendly cats adapt easily to new environments and love to explore new places. They will not display any negative changes in personality and will not hesitate to stop what they’re doing to go and greet new people. Needless to say, this is a very social breed that loves to interact with as many people as they can.

California Spangled cats are great options for families with children. In fact, children might be their favorite kind of people! Owners have claimed that these cats are very tolerant of rough play and will always be loving towards children no matter how aggressive they can get. On the other hand, these cats may be accepting of dogs but will not always want to be around them.

Owners should know that California Spangled cats love to run around, play and pounce. They also develop habits easily, so owners should care for creating sensible routines for them and the will follow them strictly. These highly intelligent creatures are also very trainable and are very affectionate with their family. They will often wake up their owners to either snuggle or to play with them.

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 a protein based diet 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.

California Spangled cats are distinguished by their high energy levels. The breed is also known to have keen hunting skills, so it’s recommended to have toys for California Spangled cats that will keep them busy and stimulate their hunting instincts. These social and curious cats tend to be very hyperactive and always like to know what’s happening in every room. Children tend to be quite amused with this acrobatic cat, especially since it loves high spaces they can climb into and perch. If you plan on getting a California Spangled cat, be ready to find them on top of doors, shelves, fridges, etc.

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. Your cat will appreciate it!

Grooming and Upkeep:

Since California Spangled cats have a very short coat, grooming doesn’t necessarily have to be a priority in your house. These cats are very proficient self-groomers and will make sure they keep their own coat clean.

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:

California Spangled cats are readily loved in any household since they’re the perfect playtime pet! Their curious and active disposition will gain everyone’s affection. Their wild appearance is sought after, making it seem like you have a household miniature leopard. However, they are rare creatures and they’re not readily available when you wish to acquire one. You must be in touch with a reputable breeder or California Spangled owner to be able to get one as a pet, and keep in mind that there is a waiting list.

Health and Wellness:

Despite the selective breeding program the California Spangled went through, this breed is generally healthy. They do not carry and breed-specific health problems.

Annual exams, vaccinations, heartworm prevention and flea and tick preventions 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, tapeworm and fleas. It’s also important to note that despite their very short coat, this breed is not hypoallergenic and may affect people with cat allergies that come in contact with the California Spangled breed. Be sure to consult a veterinarian of your choice for routine care and medical advice for your cat.

Interesting Facts about the breed:

• California Spangled cats were very popular throughout the 70’s and 80’s.
• They are probably the only cats ever to have been sold through a Neiman Marcus catalogue.
• The creation of the breed came with the intent of preserving wild cats across the world.
• There are waiting lists to acquire these cats with price tags on kitten of up to $2,500.