Description of the Mixed Breed Cat:
Description of the Domestic Cat aka "Moggie":
Domestic cats are rich in history, and there is no one-size-fits-all description of them. Domestic cats can be large, small, fat, or thin, depending on their lineage, diet, and degree of care.
Their colors and color patterns are myriad, with all the colors of the rainbow, including black, white, gray, red (aka "orange), with all the shades between. Color patterns include: tabby, calico, tortoiseshell,and tuxedo, to name a few.
Habitat of the Moggie:
Moggies are found all over the world, from the island of Cypress, to apartments in Tokyo, to the homes (and the wilds) of Australia, to the streets, alleys, and homes in the U.S. and Canada.
The sad fact is that by-and-large, the domestic cat is found more often living rough in the wild (hence the common term "alley cat"), rather than in responsible homes where they will find the love, care, and nurturing they so richly deserve. Some of these alley cats end up in animal shelters and foster homes of cat rescues, patiently waiting for adoption by a loving human.
Why Domestic Cats Make Wonderful Companions:
In many polls, domestic cats lead all "breeds" in popularity. Cat lovers who share their homes with moggies are intensely devoted and loyal to these cats, who are in turn, intensely loyal to the humans who care for them.
Because of their mixed heritage, domestic cats are not subject to some of the inherited personality traits or certain gene-related medical issues, such as PKD (polycystic kidney disease) in Persian cats. (Mixed breed cats may inherit those genes and personality traits, depending on their lineage.)
As a general rule, mixed breeds' and moggies' personalities are molded during their formative months, particularly the first year. Those who were born to feral cats are often very difficult to domesticate after the first few weeks. Whole male cats may become overly aggressive, because of their history of fighting other cats for mating privileges. Whole female street cats may be unfriendly, timid, and subject to stress, for the same reason.
On the flip side, kittens who have been raised in foster homes may make wonderful companions, as are adult cats who have received loving care by volunteers in shelters. My own life has been enriched for decades by the presence of my cats, all of whom have been personally rescued, or adopted from shelters and rescue groups. I am confident that yours could be too.
More Cat Breeds, by Name:
