Domestic Long Hair

Weight: 11 - 22 pounds
Life span: 12 - 18 years

Breed History | Background:

Noted for its hunting skills of rodents, the Domestic Long Hair rode aboard ships from Europe to settle in the United States in the 1700s.
Technically, the Domestic Long Hair is not an official recognized breed by various cat associations, including the Cat Fanciers Association, the world’s largest breed registry.

Cat Look:

Sports a medium-sized build.
The coats are long and fluffy.
The coats come in many colors and patterns. Common ones include smoke, tabby and tortie.
Face shapes vary as do eye colors.

Behavioral concerns:

The Domestic Long Hair is capable of a wide range of temperaments because of its mixed breeding background.
Some can be friendly and playful while others can be shy and quiet. Others can be independent or aloof.
Capable of carrying on a conversation with a favorite person.

Grooming:

This breed’s coat is prone to mats and requires daily brushing.
Devotes above-average time each day to keeping its coat clean and tangle-free.
Inspect coat regularly for any heavy-matted fur that can lead to skin infections.
Do not cut out matted fur because you risk cutting the skin. Seek help from a professional cat groomer.
Not a good candidate for spending time outdoors due to its high-maintenance coat.
Clip its claws once a month.
Requires regular baths to keep its coat in top condition.

Suggested Nutritional Needs:

This large breed is prone to obesity, so rely on measuring food portions to keep this cat at a healthy weight.
Benefits by a high-quality commercial diet.
Provide fresh water daily.

Fun Facts:

The Domestic Long Hair is the same breed as the Domestic Short Hair and the Domestic Medium with the only difference the length of the coat.
Nicknamed the “American Long Hair” cat.
Believed to serve as the basis for the launch of specific purebreds, including the American Shorthair.

ADDENDUM FOR THE OTHER LENGTHED COATS FOR DOMESTIC CATS:

Domestic Medium Hair:

Domestic Short Hair:

Features short, sleek fur
Some DSH resemble the American Shorthair, a breed recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association.

Glossary