Ceylan

Overall description of the breed

The Ceylan cat, also known as Ceylanese, is a breed originating from Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon. Its history is rich in mystery and folklore, dating back to centuries of evolution and domestication.

The ancestors of the Ceylan were wild cats native to the island of Ceylon, now Sri Lanka. These wild felines lived in the jungles and forests of the country, where they developed unique characteristics to adapt to their environment.

Over time, these wild cats began to coexist with the human populations of the island. The inhabitants noticed their beauty and charming nature, and started taming and raising them as pets. This domestication process led to the emergence of a distinct breed, the Ceylan, which became a faithful and cherished companion in Sri Lankan households.

The Ceylan was discovered in 1970 by the Italian veterinarian Dr. Paolo Pellegatta in tea plantations, which certainly explains its presence in Italy today and the existence of one of the few breed clubs in Europe, founded in 1988, the "Club Amatori del Gatto di Ceylon."

The Ceylan is a medium to large-sized cat, with an elegant and harmonious morphology. It possesses a slender and graceful appearance, with features that reflect its close connection with nature. The Ceylan has a well-proportioned head, pointed ears, and expressive eyes that can be of different colors, ranging from green to yellow and amber.

Its coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, ranging from pure white to deep black, with tabby and tiger stripes. The Ceylan's coat is short, silky, and glossy, making it a magnificent and elegant cat.

In terms of temperament, the Ceylan is renowned for being affectionate, intelligent, and playful. It is highly attached to its family and enjoys participating in all household activities. The Ceylan is also known to be sociable and get along well with other pets. Its active nature makes it an ideal companion for dynamic families.

The average weight of the Ceylan usually ranges from 3.5 kg to 5.5 kg (8 lb to 12 lb), with males generally being larger than females. In terms of size, the Ceylan measures an average of 25 cm to 30 cm (10 inches to 12 inches) at the shoulder.

The founding breed club of the Ceylan was established in Sri Lanka, but unfortunately, due to its limited geographic origin, the breed is not yet widely recognized by major international feline organizations. Nevertheless, continuous efforts are being made to promote the breed and raise awareness about it on a global scale.

In summary, the Ceylan is a unique and charming cat breed originating from Sri Lanka. Its history dates back to centuries of evolution and domestication, making it a loyal and beloved companion in Sri Lankan households. Its affectionate nature, elegant appearance, and sociable personality make it a cherished cat worldwide, despite its status as a breed that is still relatively unrecognized internationally.