Personality and Temperament
The Aegean cat is one of the oldest natural domestic cat breeds in existence. By natural cat breed, we mean to say that this cat was developed without human input.
Aegeans are a relatively rare cat breed outside their native islands. Aegean cats typically have medium hair length, and are of medium size.
Aegean cats are friendly and intelligent. Over the millennia, they have developed a fondness for humans; in Greece and the surrounding islands, they are valued for their rodent catching skills, and are often treated to bits of food by fishermen and other residents. These cats make excellent family pets, as they like almost everyone.
Aegean cats are notably chatty – they have a tendency to enjoy long conversations with their people. Talk to an Aegean cat, and there likely to reply with happy chirps and meows.
Care
Nutrition
Grooming
Exercise
Health
Aegean cats have no special nutritional needs in comparison with other domesticated cat breeds. We recommend feeding your cat a high-quality food. Remember to keep fresh water available at all times, too – and don't be surprised if the Aegean cat enjoys dipping their paws in the water dish!
Since the Aegean cat has a medium-length coat, regular grooming is essential – not just to cut down on shedding, but to reduce the potential for hairballs. Use a slicker brush to remove excess hair from your cat's coat 2 to 3 times per week. Not only will you notice far less shedding, the time you spend grooming your cat will strengthen your bond.
Like all other cats, the Aegean benefits from regular dental care. You may also wish to treat your pet to regular nail trims.
Left to their own devices, Aegean cats often choose napping over playtime and exploration. Encourage your cat to exercise by offering a cat tree that can double as a favorite nap spot. Toys – particularly interactive ones such as wands and lasers can bring out your cat's playful side and help prevent obesity.
As the Aegean cat developed on its own without outside influences, it is naturally healthy, with no known health issues.
History
Aegean cats have a history that dates back thousands of years. They are believed to have originated in the Cycladic Islands.
Archaeological evidence suggests that these cats may have been domesticated about 10,000 years ago on the island of Cyprus, which is just off the coast of Greece. If it’s true that ancient people shared their lives with these felines, they are truly one of the oldest cat breeds in existence today.
DNA evidence suggests that Aegean cats share common ancestry with the Angora and other Turkish cat breeds. It's likely that they found their way to Greece and islands throughout the Aegean Sea by hopping aboard the fishing and trading vessels that frequented the region.
The Aegean cat has only been recognized as a unique cat breed since the 1990s – so it’s both a “new” cat breed and an ancient one!
Eyes
Legs & Paws
Tail
The Breed Standard
Body
Head
Ears
Coat
Color
FAQ
How much does a Aegean cat cost?
Aegean cats cost between $300-$500.
How big do Aegean cats get?
Aegean cats tend to be medium in size. A fully grown Aegean cat might weigh between 7-10 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 8"-10" inches tall.
How long do Aegean cats live?
The Average lifespan for Aegean is 9-12 years.
Do Aegean cats shed?
Aegean are short-haired cats. Therefore, they do not shed as much as long-haired cat breeds.
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I believe that my beautiful cat Cleopatra is possibly an Aegean.
I have had many cats in about 50 years… pure breeds, rescue cats all sorts.. the one I was ‘adopted by’ a few years ago is an Aegean, white and grey…. A very loving, very chatty cat.. she loves our companionship and her naps.. She’s the best feline friend we have ever had, Fantastic breed.
I have just rescued an Aegean cat and named him Frosty. He is adorable. I always loved dogs compared to cats since I had a Pomeranian while growing up and they are very grateful animals. Frosty is the first cat that I fell in love with.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Qq-bj9wFzVQ&feature=share
Aww, Frosty looks so small and alert. Thank you for sharing this video of him being groomed—it’s always a pleasure to see our readers’ cats. Congratulations on becoming a “cat person”!
Thank you Marloy for your kind words
I had been wondering exactly what breed my little girl, Jewles, is. I do believe she is Aegean. She is very unique, a rescued cat from Florida. She is extremely chatty, comes running when I sing “Amazing Grace.” She loves my big girl, Shiloh, a rescued German Shepherd. Poor Shiloh gets attacked daily (playfully, of course). Jewels is very in tune with my feelings and
emotions. She has more energy than me and Shiloh together. She carefully watches our neighbors and has been an excellent mouser since the first day I brought her home.
Our Aegean, Ambrosia, is really fabulous, very athletic, loves traveling around the edge of my shower, HATES discipline and runs top speed rather than walk.My only question is that she doesn’t meow. Opens her mouth but no sound. Is this normal? Sometimes?
Yes, some cats don’t make any (or much) noise when they meow, but this usually happens only occasionally, while most of their meows do make some noise. I have heard of cats, like yours, who don’t audibly meow at all, and this can be attributed to some deformation of the vocal cords or the result of some injury or illness. As long as your cat is healthy (which it sounds like Ambrosia is), there’s nothing to worry about. It’s possible that a vet may be able to give you a more concrete answer based on her health history. – Mallory
My girl has the definitive M on her forehead. I took a picture but don’t know how to post it.
Is there black markings on the gums of these cats?