Breed Library

Australian Mist

Australian Mist

Australian Mist cats are a medium-sized shorthaired breed, with a round head and large, expressive eyes in a range of greens. There is nothing extreme about Australian Mist cats - they are of moderate size and medium boned with a friendly face. The coat has a pale background with some ticking which seems to give it a misted look, as well as a pattern of fine spots or marbled swirls, with legs and tail ringed and barred, and the face lined. Australian Mist cats come in seven colours: brown, blue, chocolate, lilac, caramel, gold and peach.

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non Hypoallergenic breed
  • Needs some out-door space
  • May require familiarisation before living with children

Origin

The Australian Mist cat is short haired breed that was developed in Australia in the 1970s by crossing Burmese, Abyssinian, and domestic shorthair cats to create a cat with a spotted coat and for this reason was initially called the Spotted Mist. As the Australian Mist cat breed developed and more patterns emerged, including marbled coats, the name was changed in 1998 to Australian Mist. There are not yet many Australian Mist cats yet in the UK and Europe but the breed is growing and breeders are working to have it recognized by cat fancy organizations.

Country of Origin

Australia

Other Names

Spotted mist

Personality

Australian Mist cats are said to be affectionate and happy with people or other pets and easily fitting in to become a member of the family.

Health

There are no reports of inherited problems in the Australian Mist cat breed.

Nutrition

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Grooming

The Australian Mist cat's coat is short and easy to care for. As with all cats, this breed needs regular vaccinations, parasite control and annual health checks.

Best Cat Breeds for Children

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

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What to Consider next

Adoption

It can be incredibly fulfilling to adopt a cat from an animal shelter and offer them a second chance in life. There are many cats waiting for a loving forever home. Each cat has its own story and many have lost their first home through no fault of their own, and would love to become a part of yours. Reputable centres will be very careful about matching the right people with the right cats. Staff will be also be happy to give you advice and answer any questions you might have.

Finding a good breeder

If your heart’s set on a pedigree cat, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. The main advantage of buying a pedigree kitten or cat is that you know fairly well what they will look like and how their personality is likely to develop. Contact your veterinarian for more information about infectious diseases, genetic predisposition or care needs of a cats, so you are fully prepared to welcome him into your home.

Welcoming your cat home

With your new cat or kitten due to arrive home any day, you’re bound to be very excited. In these last few days before their arrival, there are plenty of things to keep you busy until the day your new cat comes home. Click here for more information.

Further Reading

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