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California Spangled Cat
Origin
United States
Height
8"-10"
Adult Weight
9-15 pounds
Life Span
9-16 years
TEMPERAMENT
Playful, affectionate, sociable, intelligent
OTHER NAMES
Snow Leopard Cat, King Spangled Cat, American California Spangled Cat, Spangle
Group
Large shorthair
Price
$800 - $1500
Personality and Temperament
Fondly referred to as the house leopard, the California Spangled cat has a friendly, outgoing personality that is in direct contrast to its wild appearance.
As beautiful and as wonderfully good-natured as they are, this breed remains exceptionally rare – so much so that it is at risk of extinction. Count yourself lucky if a California Spangled cat finds its way into your home and your heart!
Care
These cats do not require a special diet; however, they thrive when provided with high-quality cat food that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
Since California Spangled cats have short coats and are not prone to heavy shedding, they require minimal upkeep. Brushing once a week should be enough to remove loose hair, help prevent excess shedding, and keep hairballs from forming.
Regular nail trimming and toothbrushing are recommended.
California Spangled cats are naturally active and will enjoy intense play sessions as often as you offer them. Interactive toys are appreciated and tall cat towers are a must. Be sure your cat has scratching posts in different locations.
California Spangled cats are generally very healthy. There are no known hereditary issues within the breed.
Characteristics
Affection Level
80%
Activity Level
80%
Pet-Friendly
60%
Kid-Friendly
80%
Sociability
80%
Intelligence
80%
Playfulness
80%
Independence
80%
Vocality
40%
Grooming
100%
History
We have anthropologists Louis Leakey and playwright Paul Casey to thank for developing the beautiful California Spangled cats. In 1971, the two teamed up with the goal of raising awareness about leopard poaching by breeding a house cat that looked like a leopard. They believe that in doing so, they could reduce the demand for leopard pelts.
The first California Spangled cats were created by crossing several breeds including Abyssinian, Siamese, American shorthair, British shorthair, and Angora cats. The breed was finally perfected in 1985, and the cats were introduced to the public in 1986 when they graced the cover of the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalog.
California Spangled cats were originally sold with the goal of raising funds to protect endangered wild cats in South and Central America. The price was particularly exorbitant for the day: at that time, the price of a California Spangled cat was $1400. For $2500, buyers could get a week-long training session with Paul Casey.
Louis Leakey and Paul Casey have passed away, but a few breeders continue to offer California Spangled cats on a very limited basis. A search for California Spangled kittens leads to long waiting lists.
Because they are so rare, California Spangled cats are no longer recognized by The International Cat Association. The American Cat Association no longer offers a breed standard.
The Breed Standard
Body
The California Spangled cat is medium large, with a muscular body. Their athletic build makes them one of the energetic domestic cat.
Head
The head is of medium size, and well proportioned to the body. Whisker pads are prominent.
Eyes
The eyes are almond shaped, with at least one eye’s width between. They complement the coat color. “Snow Leopard” white California spangled cats have blue eyes while other colors typically display green eyes.
Ears
The ears are medium to small, with rounded tips.
Legs & Paws
The legs are powerful and muscular, while the paws are rounded and proportionate to the legs.
Tail
The tail is long and graceful, with a tapered profile.
Coat
California Spangled cats have soft, plush coats with fine hair.
Color
California Spangled cats may be bronze, gold, brown, black, charcoal, silver, red, blue, or white. All colors display well defined spots, stripes, and rosettes that lend to this cat’s incredibly wild appearance. High contrast between markings and background color is desirable.