Javanese Cat Guide
Intelligent | Athletic | Talkative
The Javanese cat might be a lesser-known breed of cat, however today we're going to show you why they deserve your full attention. The domestic kitties are not only clever a.f, but so sociable that they can even talk! Discover more about their surprising origins and personality traits, summarised with 5 fun facts we bet you didn't know before...
Origins of the Javanese Cat
If you assumed that the Javanese originate from Java, you'd be wrong. Despite the name, Javanese actually originate from North America. They're thought to have gotten their name because Java is a sister island to Bali, and one of their foundation breeds is the Balinese cat. A tenuous link, we know. Originally they were classified as their own distinct breed, but in 2008 the Cat Fanciers Association re-categorised them as a variation of the Balinese breed. Grouped under the Siamese-style of kitties.
Besides from Balinese, Javanese foundation breeds also include Siamese, Colourpoint Shorthair, and Oriental Longhair. All these different breeds explain why their physical appearance can vary hugely...
Physical Characteristics
Javanese are a similar size to their Siamese and Balinese relatives. Considered a medium-sized cat breed, males weigh 3.6 to 4.5 kg, and females 2.3 to 3.6 kg. These weight ranges are just a guide though and vary based on a whole range of factors like life stage, illness, and pregnancy. Therefore we always recommend using a Body Condition Score to tell if your cat is a healthy weight.
Their physique is lean, athletic, and perfectly poised to pounce at any time. They have relatively long and slender limbs compared to other breeds, which are slightly longer at the back. All supported by delicate little tootsies. They have a recognisably swishy tale, that tapers with some extra floof at the end. Perfect for dusting your furniture. Then the final most noticeable trait that will help you know if your cat has Javanese is their ears, not dissimilar to the BFG. Not only are they adorably large, but pointy, giving them a triangular dobby-like shape.
How much do Javanese cats cost?
Javanese cats can cost anywhere between £300 to £2500 for a healthy kitty from a safe home.
Don't forget to check out rehoming charities for floof's in need of a loving home!
Personality Traits
If you're wondering are Javanese cats good cats? Your wonders would be correct. Javanese are wonderfully sociable beings, who love hanging out, playing, cuddling, and being the center of attention. So much so, that if they don't get enough attention, they'll very well let you know about it with their quite surprising vocal ability. Talking is one of their favourite pass times, and they even change their tone depending on their needs!
We couldn't find a specific video of Javanese, but their closely related Oriental Shorthair talks in a very similar way:
What to feed a Javanese cat
Javanese don't have any specific nutritional needs and don't tend to be too fussy. Choose high-quality, complete cat food to help them live a long and happy life. To meet their meaty needs, ensure meat or fish is the numero uno ingredient listed on the ingredient list, as this means it makes up the largest percentage of the recipe. As well as making sure the meat is from a quality source aka is not listed as "meat and animal derivatives", which is vague and could be anything.
During their life, their nutritional needs will change. As a kitten, your Javanese will require more calories to support all that growing, which is why you should opt for a specifically tailored kitten food. At around one year you can move on an adult cat food. This should provide them with everything they need to live their golden years, just check it's suitable for all life stages.
We offer a range of gut-friendly and high-protein cat food to suit all life stages. Designed using pre and probiotics and avoiding artificial additives, preservatives, and added salt for pretty poops, healthy digestion, and immune function. With all our dry cat food, wet cat food and treat recipes packed with tasty, responsibly sourced ingredients, discover your kitty's new fav food today.
Looking after Javanese
Javanese are a relatively easy breed to care for, but OFC still needs some TLC from you to be at their best.
As they have a gorgeously silky coat, it's easy to keep them in tip-top condition. Simply give them a brush twice a week to remove dead skin and hair, and they'll be strutting down your high street like Kate Moss. Then wipe around their eyes with a wettened clean tissue to remove any bits of eye gunk (yes, that's the techy term).
You'll also want to brush their teeth as regularly as possible as, like all cats, Javanese are susceptible to periodontal disease. Vets recommend brushing daily, but we know this isn't always possible, so aim for at least once a week. Don't forget to use a cat-specific toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste, and reward with a healthy dental cat treat post-brush.
5 Fun Facts about the Javanese care
- Javanese cats don't originate from Java but in North America
- They are technically not their own breed, but a variation of the Balinese breed.
- Talking is their favourite pastime, and one they're very good at.
- They have a complex breed history, combining over four other breeds!
- Whilst they look a tad lanky, they're actually incredibly strong.