INTRODUCTION

Australian mist is the name of a little known feline breed with characteristics that make these cats exceptional companions in any home. Affectionate, calm and non-aggressive, they can live in families with children and animals.

THE ORIGIN OF THE AUSTRALIAN MIST

As the name suggests, this is a breed of Australian origin. In fact, it is the only Australian breed of cat. It is the result of a cross between Abyssinian and Burmese cats, as well as different domestic cats that had in common a short coat. More than 30 cats are believed to have been involved in its creation.

Physical characteristics of Australian domestic cats were sought, but with a more affectionate and sociable character and a mottled coat, hence the name ‘mist’. Its appearance is relatively recent. It is said that the first specimens were found in 1975. At first it was called ‘Spotted Mist’.

It alluded to the spots on its coat. Later, when a change in the characteristics of the coat was accepted, the name was changed in 1998. From Australia, its country of origin, in recent years it has begun to spread to the United Kingdom, America and Germany. It is not yet a breed recognised by the International Cat Federation.

WHAT IS THE AUSTRALIAN MIST CAT LIKE?

It is a medium sized cat of robust appearance, with a broad chest, strong medium-sized legs and a long tail tapering towards the tip. They are strong, well muscled cats. The head is round and medium sized. The nose is broad. The eyes are large, rounded and in various shades of green.

The ears are large, broad and rounded at the tip. They are set wide apart. They are short haired cats. Their colours are brown, blue, chocolate, lilac, caramel, golden or peach. Nowadays, the coat pattern may be spotted or marbled.

HEALTH OF THE AUSTRALIAN MIST

No specific health problems are known to this breed at present. They are therefore considered to be healthy cats. They do seem to show a tendency to put on weight. To avoid this, exercise should be encouraged and a diet appropriate to their nutritional needs should be offered.

THE PERSONALITY OF THE AUSTRALIAN MIST

In general, Australian mist are very good-natured cats. Very intelligent, they are also affectionate and like physical contact with their caregivers, as well as watching them go about their daily activities. It is not uncommon for them to jump into the lap of any member of the family.

This sociability means that they do not cope well with spending too much time alone. They are tolerant and have no tendency towards aggression. They are intelligent and can learn some tricks, such as picking up and returning objects thrown to them.

They are perfectly suited to living indoors in a flat, but need plenty of room. It is essential that we provide them with space to develop their natural activities, such as running, jumping, climbing, scratching or playing. Choosing furniture and accessories that allow them to climb on and observe from above is a good idea.

They like to control every corner of their home. In addition, this way we make the most of all the space. To achieve this, we can use vertical scratching posts, shelves or, in general, any safe piece of furniture. They like throwing and catching games and need daily interaction time. They demand our company or, at least, to live in a house with other animals.

CONCLUSION

The Australian mist cat, also known as the mist cat, is the only cat breed on the Australian continent. Bred from the Burmese, Abyssinian and domestic cats, this gentle and affectionate breed is ideal as an indoor cat. This Australian pussycat owes its name to the typical pattern of its coat, which appears to be covered with a slight halo.