The Transylvanian cat (Transylvanian) is the first breed of Romanian cats recognized at international level, a true pride in the Felin Heritage of Romania. Naturally appeared in the Carpathian Mountains, this breed impresses with its distinctive appearance. Although it resembles a miniature wolf and sometimes it may seem quite frightening, the Transylvanian cat has a gentle temperament, being ideal for a homemade cat. Currently, the breed is partially approved, and the final recognition will be granted over two years, with the birth of the fourth generation of chicken.
Subject
What are the origins of the Transylvanian cat breed
The Transylvanian cat is considered a breed of heritage, based on pure blood lines discovered in the Mountain Region of Transylvania, in Romania. The breed was initially discovered by an expert in the genetics of cats, recognized worldwide. After the discovery made, this race aroused the interest of the international feline federations, who asked the Romanian federations to study more deeply and to document the characteristics of this cat. Perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions of the Carpathian Mountains, the Transylvanian cat is the result of natural selection, which gives it a remarkable genetic resistance and robust health. We all know that naturally occurring cat breeds have the most robust health.
Pictures of Transylvanian cat
More pictures of the Transylvanian cat breed can be found on this Group De Facebook.
Physical characteristics
Carpathian fur
As can be seen in the pictures above, one of the most distinct features of the Transylvanian cat is its gray fur, also called "carpatic fur". It has a "salt and pepper" appearance, with white and white yarns alternatively, offering a unique visual effect. Unlike Siamese cats, which have darker extremities, the Transylvanian cat has lighter extremities, which emphasizes its resemblance to a wolf. The fur is dense and well adapted to cope with the long, cold winters in the mountains.
Wolf features
The appearance of the Transylvanian cat is often compared to that of a wolf due to its robust and muscular body, with a semi -round conformation. The big and straight ears, a gray-white, are extremely effective in detecting sounds, giving it a true natural radar. The big eyes, from intense yellow to orange or green, have a special expressiveness, giving the cat a mysterious air, sometimes described as hypnotic. The only white signs allowed in the breed standard are a medallion on the chest and a stain on the belly.
Temperament
Unlike many wild or semi-savage cats, the Transylvanian cat is remarkably mild and devoid of aggression. Alexandru Elian, director of exhibitions of a feline club, describes these cats as absolutely incredible, due to their calm and friendly temperament. Unlike other cats that can be more reserved or aggressive, the Transylvanian cat does not remove the claws and integrates easily into the domestic environment, being ideal for families looking for an affectionate companion. It is also an ideal cat for families who have young children. Despite its appearance that may seem fierce, the Transylvanian cat has a very docile temperament.
Health and genetics
As I said before, it is a race that, in general, has no health problems. The Transylvanian cat enjoys an excellent genetic luggage, being considered extremely healthy and devoid of major predispositions to genetic diseases. This aspect is a result of natural selection in the mountain environment, which has favored only the most resistant specimens. Basically, it comes from a species that has resisted natural selection over hundreds of years. The specialists note that the breed has a promising genetic stability, an essential factor for final approval.
Popularity, recognition and prices
Although it is a relatively new race on the international stage, the Transylvanian cat has quickly gained popularity in Europe, where there are already groups dedicated to the fans of this breed. Breeders in countries such as Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom and even the United States have begun to show interest in this unique feline. Being a rare and heritage breed, the price of a Transylvanian cat copy can reach about 1,000 euros, but this amount can be exceeded.
Legends from Transylvania and symbolism
The Transylvanian cat is not only a breed of cats, but also a symbol of Transylvania, a region known for its legends about vampires and wild landscapes. Some local stories say that this cat would have been the companion of the Transylvanian peasants, protecting the rodent grains. A legend even suggests that a Transylvanian cat would have saved a child from a wolf, giving him a heroic air. With his big ears, the penetrating eyes and the Drăcușor fur, this cat is sometimes called "Count Dracula", due to its mysterious charm and local legends.
Conclusion
The Transylvanian cat is more than just a breed of cats, it is a testimony of the beauty and resistance of nature in the Carpathian Mountains. With its gray fur, wolf features and gentle temperament, this feline conquers the hearts of cat lovers around the world. As the process of continuous approval, the Transylvanian cat promises to become an ambassador of the Romanian heritage, bringing a splash of Transylvanian magic into the houses of those who adopt it.
