It takes a keen eye to identify authentic Javanese cats correctly, but these elegant and exotic creatures are more than just stunningly good-looking; they’re playful, loyal, and intelligent, making them the purr-fect addition to your family.
Today, we spotlight this striking breed, sharing tidbits about its history, temperament, general care needs, and how you can get your paws on one of your own! Read on to find out everything you need to know about Javanese cats!
History of Javanese Cats
You’d think Javanese cats hailed from Java, the island off of Indonesia, since it’s in the name, but that’s not the case. Javanese cats originated in North America during the mid-20th century.
Breeders crossed Siamese, Balinese, and Colorpoint Shorthair cats, eventually creating a sleek, elegant feline with various coat colors and patterns. Since the result resembles Balinese kitties, they named the breed ” Javanese.” Some people call them “Javis” for short.
Known for their silky, medium-length coats, vibrant and expressive eyes, and devilishly playful personalities, Javanese cats have become increasingly popular over the years, but they are still considered rare today.
Temperament of Javanese Cats
Javanese cats embody all the traits you’d want from a feline friend, which is why we love them so much.
They are highly affectionate, lively, and social, so don’t be surprised if they choose to come out and greet your guests rather than find a nearby bed to hide beneath. In fact, Javanese cats are known to vocalize more than many other breeds, so they may meow a hearty welcome to make your guests feel right at home!
Javis are people-oriented, so they’re known to form strong bonds with their families. That can be a double-edged sword if you’re the type to pull long shifts at work or travel frequently, but don’t worry, your friends here at Space Coast Pet Services are happy to cat-sit your beautiful Javanese kitty anytime!
Exercise for Javis
Sure, you may find your Javanese cat curled up in that splotch of sun, but they’re also known to be super active and energetic. They need daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
So, put that agility and playfulness to the test! Grab your share of scratching posts, climbing trees, and other objects to make a certified cat-friendly obstacle course. Then, sit back and watch them explore and interact.
Regular one-on-one play sessions with wands, puzzles, and other interactive toys are also generally suitable for Javanese cats. They thrive most when their brains are engaged, so you’ll want to look for opportunities to help them burn off excess energy before retiring for a catnap on the couch.
Grooming Your Javanese Cat
Like most cats, Javi kitties are relatively low-maintenance. They’re dedicated self-groomers. Plus, they boast a fine, silky coat with no undercoat, meaning they won’t mat as quickly as other longer-haired felines.
A weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their fur in top condition, remove loose hairs, and reduce shedding. Be patient during your first few grooming sessions; your Javanese will likely come to enjoy the bonding time grooming provides.
With minimal effort, your Javanese cat should stay sleek and beautiful.
Vet/Medical Care for Javanese Cats
Whereas you can skip the groomer, you certainly don’t want to skip the vet. Like other pedigree breeds, Javanese cats benefit from regular vet check-ups to monitor their health and prevent potential issues.
As a breed, they are generally healthy. Still, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which affects vision over time, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition. They may also be prone to dental issues, so regular dental care is essential.
Vaccinations, flea control, and routine blood work are essential for detecting problems early. With attentive medical care and a balanced diet, Javanese cats can enjoy a healthy, active life and often thrive well into their senior years.
Bringing a Javi Kitty Home
Finding a bona fide Javanese breeder with pedigree papers may take time, as the breed is still relatively rare. They’re also not cheap since they’re highly coveted and stunningly beautiful, so you should expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 depending on the kitten’s lineage, breeder reputation, and coat color. You can check Javanese rescue websites often to see if one comes up for adoption, but it’s not common.
Once you bring your Javanese kitty home, slowly acclimate them by designating a quiet, cozy room where they can feel safe and gradually adjust to the new environment. Of course, you’ll want to give them the essentials, like food, water, litter box, and soft bedding, and spend plenty of quality time with them in this room, but don’t rush things! Your social butterfly will get their bearings before long, but you don’t want to rush them through this process as they gain confidence and adjust.
After they’ve settled in, contact us or book online at Space Coast Pet Services for all your cat sitting needs in Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, and Melbourne. We offer in-home cat visits once or twice daily; you set the schedule based on your cat’s needs! Does your cat need medication management? No worries – we don’t charge more for that!
We’d love to meet your new feline friend, and we’re here for you anytime!
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