Singapura Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

Meet the Singapura, one of the smallest and most enchanting cat breeds in the feline world. With its large, almond-shaped eyes and petite, muscular frame, this feline captures hearts with not just its endearing looks but also its vibrant and affectionate personality.

Known for their curiosity and love of being involved in every aspect of their owner’s life, these little dynamos bring a sense of joy and liveliness to any home. This breed’s intriguing history, tracing back to the streets of Singapore, adds an exotic allure to its already compelling charm. 

Breed Profile

The Singapura cat breed is believed to have originated naturally on the streets of Singapore, where it was known as the “drain cat” or “Kucinta”. These cats were small in size, with a ticked coat and a playful personality. The locals highly valued them for their ability to keep the rat population in check.

In 1975, two American breeders, Hal and Tommy Meadow, visited Singapore and spotted the unique cats. They were impressed by the cats’ small size, ticked coat, and friendly personality, and decided to bring them back to the U.S. The Meadows used three cats as the foundation for the breed: a pair of male and female kittens from the same litter and another young female. They named the breed “Singapura” after the country of origin.

The Singapura cat breed was developed by crossing the three foundation cats with other breeds, including the Siamese, Abyssinian, and Burmese. The goal was to maintain the breed’s unique characteristics while improving its health and temperament.

This breed was recognised by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1982. In 1988, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) also recognized the breed. Today, the Singapura is a popular breed around the world, known for its small size, playful personality, and ticked coat.

A DNA study conducted in 2014 confirmed that the Singapura is a natural breed that originated in Southeast Asia. The study also found that the breed is genetically distinct from other breeds, further supporting its status as a unique and special breed.

Physical Characteristics

The Singapura is the smallest breed of cat in the world, but don’t let their small size fool you. They are muscular and well-proportioned with a compact body structure that is surprisingly heavy for their size.

• Size and Body Structure

Adult Singapuras weigh between four to eight pounds and have a length of nine to twelve inches. They have a small head with large ears that are set wide apart. Their legs are slim and long, and their paws are small and oval-shaped.

• Coat and Colour

The Singapura’s coat is short, light, and silky to the touch. It has a unique ticked tabby coat pattern that gives the appearance of a shimmering glow. The coat colour is sepia agouti, which is a warm brown with black ticking.

• Eyes and Ears

The Singapura has large, almond-shaped eyes that are set wide apart. The eye colour can be green, hazel, or yellow, and they have a bright and alert expression. Their ears are large, wide at the base, and slightly rounded at the tips. They are set low on the head and tilt forward, giving them a curious and attentive appearance.

Personality and Temperament

The Singapura is a very social cat breed with an affectionate nature. They are known to be curious, playful, and active, making them great companions for families with children. They enjoy attention and love to be involved in your daily activities.

• Behavioural Traits

The Singapura is an intelligent cat breed that is easy to train. They are also known for their sociable and loving temperament, making them a great addition to any household. They are not known to be aggressive and are generally good with other pets.

• Interactions with Humans and Other Pets

The Singapura is a very sociable cat breed that loves to interact with humans and other pets. They are known to be very affectionate and are great companions for families with children. They are also kid-friendly and enjoy playing with children.

Health and Care

Taking care of your Singapura cat’s health is essential to ensure they live a long, happy life. Here are some important aspects to consider when it comes to taking care of your Singapura.

• Common Health Issues

Like all cat breeds, Singapuras can be prone to certain health issues. It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of illness and take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups. Some common health issues that Singapuras may be prone to include pyruvate kinase deficiency, anaemia, and uterine inertia. Regular vet visits can help catch any potential health problems early on.

• Nutrition and Diet

Providing your Singapura with high-quality cat food is crucial for their overall health and well-being. It’s important to choose a cat food that is specifically formulated for their age, size, and activity level. Make sure to read the ingredients list and choose a food that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.

• Grooming Needs

Singapuras have a short, sleek coat that requires minimal grooming. However, it’s still important to brush your cat’s coat once a week to remove any loose fur and prevent matting. Regular grooming can also help keep your cat’s coat shiny and healthy.

• Exercise and Play

Singapuras are an energetic breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Make sure to provide your cat with plenty of playtime and toys to keep them entertained. Interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders and laser pointers, can help keep your cat mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.

Breeding and Genetics

Breeding and genetics are important considerations when it comes to the Singapura cat breed. As a potential breeder, it is important to understand the breeding practices and genetic considerations involved in producing healthy and genetically diverse Singapura cats.

When it comes to breeding Singapura cats, it is important to work with a reputable breeder who follows responsible breeding practices. The International Cat Association (TICA) has established guidelines for responsible breeding practices, which include screening for genetic disorders and avoiding breeding cats with known health issues.

A responsible breeder will also have a breeding program that focuses on maintaining genetic diversity within the breed. This is important for the long-term health and viability of the breed.

• Genetic Considerations

One genetic disorder that is of concern in the Singapura cat breed is pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD). This is a genetic condition that affects the red blood cells and can lead to anaemia and other health problems. Breeders need to screen their cats for PKD and avoid breeding cats with the condition.

A DNA study conducted in 2018 found that the Singapura cat breed has relatively low genetic diversity compared to other breeds. This highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity within the breed through responsible breeding practices.

It is also worth noting that there has been some controversy surrounding the breeding of Singapura cats. Some breeders have been accused of prioritising physical appearance over health and genetic diversity. As a potential breeder, it is important to be aware of these issues and to work with a reputable breeder who prioritises the health and well-being of the cats.

Living with a Singapura

If you are considering adopting a Singapura cat, you will be delighted to know that this breed is highly adaptable and easy to live with. Here are some tips to help you create a happy home environment for this feline.

• Home Environment

Singapuras are active cats that love to play and explore their surroundings. They are also highly intelligent and require mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Make sure to provide your Singapura with plenty of toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures to keep them entertained.

Singapuras are also highly social and enjoy the company of their humans. They are affectionate cats that love to cuddle and spend time with their owners. Make sure to give your Singapura plenty of attention and affection to keep them happy and content.

• Training and Intelligence

Singapuras are highly intelligent cats that are easy to train. They are quick learners and can be taught a variety of tricks and behaviours. Consider training your Singapura to perform simple tricks like sit, come, and stay. This will not only provide mental stimulation for your cat but will also strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

• Adaptability

Singapuras are highly adaptable cats that can thrive in a variety of living environments. They are well-suited to apartment living and can be easily trained to use a litter box. They are also highly social and can get along well with other pets and children.

Overall, living with a Singapura is a joy-filled experience characterised by playful interactions, warm cuddles, and constant companionship.

Choosing a Singapura Cat

If you have decided to add a Singapura cat to your family, there are a few things to consider before bringing one home. 

When looking for a Singapura cat, it is essential to find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will ensure that the cat you choose is healthy, well-socialised, and has a good temperament. You can find a reputable breeder by checking with cat registries such as The International Cat Association (TICA) or The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). These organisations maintain a list of registered breeders who have met specific standards for breeding and care.

You can also check with local animal shelters or rescue organisations. They may have Singapura cats available for adoption. Adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue organisation is an excellent way to provide a loving home for a cat in need.

When visiting a breeder, make sure to ask plenty of questions about the cat’s history, including its health, temperament, and championship status. A good breeder will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with any information you need.

Conclusion

The Singapura cat is a beloved and unique breed that has captured the hearts of many. From its origins as a street cat to its current status as a national mascot, this small but mighty feline has made its mark in popular culture and continues to be a cherished companion for cat lovers around the world.

Learning more about the history, characteristics, and community surrounding the Singapura cat, we can fully appreciate its significance and understand why it is considered a symbol of Singapore’s culture and heritage. Whether you are considering adding a Singapura cat to your family or simply want to learn more about this fascinating breed, there is always something new to discover and appreciate. 

Let’s continue to celebrate these lovable “Lion City” cats and keep their legacy alive for generations to come.