Mary Allen
The German Longhaired Cat, which is considered uncomplicated, is suitable for first-time cat owners and does not place too high demands on their homes. She can feel just as comfortable in the apartment posture as in the posture with freedom of movement. Despite their length, their fur is usually not associated with a high level of maintenance. Occasional brushing, especially during the change of coat, is usually sufficient. Since the German long-haired breed is considered to be compatible with conspecifics, keeping multiple cats should be considered – especially for working people.
The origin of the German Longhair is unknown. It is believed that it was the land plot of a domestic cat with half-length fur. Semi-long-haired cats were common in many regions of the world even before pedigree cat breeding. At that time these cats were called Angora cats. The wild, gray tabby cats were often called marten cats in Germany because it was mistakenly assumed that they were the result of matings between martens and cats.
The biologist and zoologist Prof. Dr. In 1929, Friedrich Schwangart divided long-haired cat types into two groups: he referred to animals with round heads, short snouts, and longer fur, whose overall appearance was more compact, like Persian cats. On the other hand, cats that had a slimmer body and a trapezoidal face were called the German Longhair.
Before the Second World War, the Deutsch Langhaar was often seen at cat shows but received little international attention. The breed, recognized in Germany in 1930, became rare and practically died out.
In the 1960s, R. Aschemeier maintained a maintenance breed for the German longhair. In 2012 the breed was recognized internationally by the WCF. Breeders orient themselves to Prof. Dr. Schwangart’s established breed standards. The “new” German longhaired cats are often long-haired cats of different origins, whose appearance corresponds to that of the German longhaired hair.
The body of the German long hair should be balanced. Their stature is therefore more moderate than that of the slender Orientals or the often squat-looking Persian cats. The coat colors of the rare cat vary. Generally, any color is allowed, the same applies to the eyes.
Breed-specific Traits
The breed is considered to be people-friendly and uncomplicated. She is described as relaxed and, despite her relaxed nature, she is said to be playful and active. As a rule, the German Longhaired Pointer is compatible with conspecifics and can also feel very comfortable in families. A lively household with children should not be a problem in and of itself.
Attitude and Care
Like many long-haired and semi-long-haired cats, the German long-haired cat is often understood as a purely indoor cat but still enjoys a secure garden or balcony. With a few exceptional cases, these animals enjoy the company of other cats. Working people should therefore think about a second cat. Although the fur of the velvet paw is long, it is considered to be rather easy to care for and should be brushed several times, especially during the coat change.