Domestic Long Hair
Domestic Long Hair History
- Noted for its hunting skills of rodents, the Domestic Long Hair rode aboard ships from Europe to settle in the United States in the 1700s.
- Technically, the Domestic Long Hair is not an official recognized breed by various cat associations, including the Cat Fanciers Association, the world's largest breed registry.
Domestic Long Hair Behavior Concerns
- The Domestic Long Hair is capable of a wide range of temperaments because of its mixed breeding background.
- Some can be friendly and playful while others can be shy and quiet. Others can be independent or aloof.
- Capable of carrying on a conversation with a favorite person.
Look of Domestic Long Hairs
- Sports a medium-sized build.
- The coats are long and fluffy.
- The coats come in many colors and patterns. Common ones include smoke, tabby and tortie.
- Face shapes vary as do eye colors.
Grooming Domestic Long Hair Cats
- This breed's coat is prone to mats and requires daily brushing.
- Devotes above-average time each day to keeping its coat clean and tangle-free.
- Inspect coat regularly for any heavy-matted fur that can lead to skin infections.
- Do not cut out matted fur because you risk cutting the skin. Seek help from a professional cat groomer.
- Not a good candidate for spending time outdoors due to its high-maintenance coat.
- Clip its claws once a month.
- Requires regular baths to keep its coat in top condition.
Suggested Nutritional Needs for Domestic Long Hair
- This large breed is prone to obesity, so rely on measuring food portions to keep this cat at a healthy weight.
- Benefits by a high-quality commercial diet.
- Provide fresh water daily.
Fun Facts of Domestic Long Hairs
- The Domestic Long Hair is the same breed as the Domestic Short Hair and the Domestic Medium with the only difference the length of the coat.
- Nicknamed the "American Long Hair" cat.
- Believed to serve as the basis for the launch of specific purebreds, including the American Shorthair.
ADDENDUM FOR THE OTHER LENGTHED COATS FOR DOMESTIC CATS:
Domestic Medium Hair:
- Features thick, double-coated fur.
Domestic Short Hair:
- Features short, sleek fur
- Some DSH resemble the American Shorthair, a breed recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association.