Determining a cats breed can be challenging, especially if it is a mixed breed. However, there are some clues in a cat's physical appearance that can help determine its breed. Here are some tips to help you identify your cat's breed:
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Physical Appearance: Look for features such as face shape, body type, fur color, and markings. Consider the totality of a cat's physical attributes to help narrow down the list of possible breeds.
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DNA Test: If you want to know your cat's breed with absolute certainty, you can use a cat DNA test. These kits use your cat's DNA obtained through a cheek swab to determine its breed.
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Cat Scanner App: You can use the Cat Scanner app to identify your cat's breed by taking a picture or uploading an image from your gallery. The app currently identifies around 60 different cat breeds, including all breeds officially recognized by the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) and even some more.
It's important to note that over 96% of cats on the planet are mixed breed and not under controlled breeding, meaning they choose their own mates. Purebred cats are cats who have been selectively bred over a period of time by humans for specific physical traits. Selective breeding limits the gene pool, and it's important to be aware of the increased risks of certain health problems.