Mary Allen
Would you like to share your home with a cat or two? Wonderful! But what kind of cat should it be: would you prefer a pedigree cat or a motley mixed breed? We give tips to help you make a decision.
Pedigree cat or mixed breed: what’s the difference?
Before you ask yourself the question “pedigree cat or mixed breed”, we should first clarify the definitions:
- Pedigree cats: Pedigree cats are cats that are bred according to the guidelines of a feline scientific (felinological) umbrella organization (CFA, FIFe, GCCF, TICA, WCF) and according to the respective breed standard. The breed of the cat must be documented by a pedigree or a family tree of a recognized association.
- Crossbreeds: Crossbreeds are cats whose parents are purebred members of two different breeds. An example would be a cross-breeding of Persian cats and Norwegian forest cats.
Mixed breed: Cats are considered mixed breeds if one of their parents cannot be traced back to a certain breed. They are often referred to like house cats in general. But be careful: domestic cats are often equated with the European Shorthair (EKH). The EKH is a pedigree cat.
These definitions help initially with the assignment of pedigree cat or mixed breed. Of course, they do not yet provide any information about the advantages and disadvantages of the respective origin.
What are the advantages of pedigree cats over mixed breeds?
Why do cat lovers commit to a certain breed in the first place? For many, it’s not just about the appearance, but also about certain characteristics of the cat. Both are anchored in the respective breed standards. Breeders, therefore, work specifically towards representatives of these breeds that are as typical as possible.
For example, Siamese cats are known to be talkative, while British Shorthair cats are more comfortable. Maine Coon are particularly large cats, Singapura particularly small. So fans of certain breeds love not only the appearance of the cats but the whole package.
This relative predictability of what kind of cat will move in soon is certainly the greatest advantage of a pedigree cat over mixed-breed cats. Even if the different breeds do not differ as much outwardly as dogs, for example, there are clear differences when it comes to the nature of cats. For example, not every breed of cat is suitable for a purely residential home or a family with small children.
What are the possible disadvantages of pedigree cats?
Pedigree cats have less genetic diversity than mixed-breed cats. Because in order to keep the appearance and character of the individual breeds stable, only certain cats are of course mated with each other. Unfortunately, this harbors the risk of inheritable diseases.
For this reason, too, potential breeding animals are carefully examined for their health by a reputable breeder before they are used. Cats suffering from hereditary diseases are then excluded from breeding. Despite everything, pedigree cats, statistically speaking, usually have a lower life expectancy than mixed breeds.
Pedigree cats are more expensive than mixed breeds
Another disadvantage is the price of a pedigree cat. Serious breeding is a very complex hobby for which you have to follow many guidelines.
In addition: Membership in a breeding club, the veterinary examinations of the parent animals, possible stud fees, and of course the loving and healthy rearing of the kittens cause considerable costs. This in turn is reflected in the price of the kittens.
Those who do not have the financial means or would like to give older cats a chance can find out more about pedigree cats in need from animal shelters or various associations. Because, unfortunately, pedigree cats are always looking for a new home for various reasons. However, the lower price should never be the decisive argument when it comes to moving a cat.
What are the advantages of mixed breeds over pedigree cats?
Mixed breeds are suitable for all cat lovers who are open to surprises. Is the cat rather cozy, talkative, happy to play? In the case of mongrels, this cannot usually be predicted and only becomes apparent over time.
Mixed breeds are generally considered to be healthier than pedigree cats and, as a rule, also have a longer life expectancy. The greater genetic diversity does not just make mongrels a “surprise bag” in terms of appearance and character. It also reduces the likelihood of hereditary diseases. In principle, however, these hereditary diseases can occur in every cat.
Mixed breed cats from the animal shelter
Shouldn’t the surprise be that big? Then you might find what you are looking for at the local animal shelter. Older cats often have to wait a long time for a new owner.
The advantage here is obvious: On the one hand, these cats have already reached their final size and color. On the other hand, the character of the cat is already mature. The staff at the animal shelter will be happy to give you information about the different minds that are currently looking for a new home there.
Another advantage is certainly the lower price of mongrels compared to pedigree cats. But it is better to distance yourself from kittens at “dumping prices”. Even if it is a mixed breed cat, responsible rearing causes costs for the owner of the cat’s mother. If he can offer the kittens at a very low price or even for free, the health of the animals has probably been saved.
Are there possible disadvantages with mixed breeds?
As great as the health benefits of mixed-breed cats are, they are still literally buying a poke-poke cat. Knowing little or nothing about the parent animals also involves dangers. Hereditary diseases do not stop at mongrels either. However, they can be harder to diagnose if you don’t know the history of your cat and its ancestors.
Conclusion: pedigree cat or mixed breed?
Cat lovers should not split into two camps: There are good arguments for both pedigree cats and mixed breeds to move in. The origin of the cat is decisive. Pedigree cats should choose a reputable breeder. In this way, you are doing your part to keep the breed healthy. For friends of mixed breeds, it is always worth taking a look at the animal shelter.
Are you looking for two cats? Of course, social mixed breed cats can coexist with a pedigree cat. Especially kittens get used to each other quickly. The answer to the question “pedigree cat or mixed-breed” is often very simple: just take both! Because cats need company.