Originating in the streets of Singapore, this breed of cat was brought to the United States in the 1970s by two Americans (Hal and Tommy Meadow). Its name derives from the city itself and means Singapore in the Malaysian language. These cats represent a naturally occurring combination of the ticked coat and dark brown color patterns, both of which are indigenous to South East Asia. They are smaller than average cats and veterinarians seeing a Singapura for the first time might think something was wrong because the kittens of this breed are so very small. They are also very slow to develop to maturity and usually do not attain full size until they are about 15 to 24 month of age. Males and females are basically the same size, weighing in between five and eight pounds.
Singapuras are shorthaired, with very large ears and eyes that range in color from hazel to green to yellow. The feet are very small. Their light beige coloring, similar to that of a cougar, is unique in the cat world. Today the breed is known throughout the world and since 1988 has been recognized for championship status by most registration associations.
These cats are highly intelligent, outgoing and very people-oriented. They bond with everyone in a household and insist on helping the owner do everything. They’ll beat their owners to the door and must inspect all activities performed on the kitchen counter. In bed, a Singapura is like a warm, satin-coated heating pad that will inform the bed’s occupant exactly when it’s time to wake up and play with the water in the sink. They don’t mind other pets and get along well with children. They are curious and playful, but not destructive. Their dispositions are sweet and endearing, and their unique appearance mesmerizes all who behold it. These cats should always be kept indoors and the warmest corner of the home is usually theirs.
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