The cameo cat is a newcomer as cat breeds are considered. Developed in the 1950s, the cameo was developed by crossbreeding tortoiseshell and smoke Persians. Dr. Rachel Salisbury of Wisconsin noticed that when these two cat types were bred, pinkish male kittens began to regularly appear in the litters. Recognizing the beauty of these kittens, Dr. Salisbury established a breeding program in her Vanaki cattery. Quickly following suit were American breeders Barbara Fergus, Barbara Simmonds and others. This enthusiastic program resulted in the cameo cat becoming one of the fastest growing new Persian breed in the country. In the 1960s, the cameo cat was introduced to the United Kingdom through the breeding programs of several different cat fanciers. The official breed club was founded in 1975.
The cameo, like the classic Persian, is a sturdy breed. The legs of the cat are short and well-boned. A well-bred cameo is not too thin, nor does it weigh too little. This breed should weigh in between 10 and 14 pounds on average. With a broad head and flat face, the cameo is as distinctive in looks as its popular ancestors.
Personality
Like many longhair cats, the cameo is an affectionate breed. Treat the cameo with love and kindness, and the cat will quickly bond to you. The cameo is perfect for families with children who will treat them gently, and are typically accepting of new and existing household pets. While all cats use their claws to leave scent marks, the cameo rarely shows its claws to its people.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 13 - 15 years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
Cameo Longhair Build Information
The cameo, like the classic Persian, is a sturdy breed. The legs of the cat are short and well-boned. A well-bred cameo is not too thin, nor does it weigh too little. This breed should weigh in between 10 and 14 pounds on average. With a broad head and flat face, the cameo is as distinctive in looks as its popular ancestors.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Like many longhair cats, the cameo is an affectionate breed. Treat the cameo with love and kindness, and the cat will quickly bond to you. The cameo is perfect for families with children who will treat them gently, and are typically accepting of new and existing household pets. While all cats use their claws to leave scent marks, the cameo rarely shows its claws to its people.
| Activity Level: | Moderately active |
| Affection Level: | High |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
As with any longhaired cat, the Cameo cannot be ignored when it comes to grooming. The cat must be combed at least once a week, but more frequent grooming is encouraged. Regular brushing keeps the cat free of mats in the fur, and brushing out loose fur prevents hairballs from collecting in the gut as the cat grooms itself. Toenails should be clipped every four to six weeks depending on the rate of growth. Some Cameo owners have their cats shaved during the warmer months.
| Shedding: | Average |
| Grooming: | Little |
Cameo Longhair Common Health Conditions
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common heart ailment that occurs in all cats. Persians are hereditarily predisposed to the illness. Other health problems that plague the cameo breed are breathing difficulties, plugged tear ducts and skin problems. Unfortunately, Persians are prone to more health problems than almost any other breed of cat.
Cameo Longhair Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Persian is the most popular pedigree cat in America. The cameo cat is a skilled mouser. The Cameo is happiest in a family that gives it calm, frequent attention. Breeds similar to the Cameo include toy and teacup Persians, classic Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, and Chinchilla cats.