Differences Between Chinese Village Cats and Pet Cats

Differences Between Stray Cats and Pet Cats in China

1. Differences in Constitution

Pet cats, bred to maintain pure bloodlines and desirable appearances, often mate with their own kind or even close relatives. This can lead to genetic defects and a higher susceptibility to hereditary diseases, making their constitutions relatively weak and prone to illness. In contrast, stray cats, being the result of mixed breedings, have a lower likelihood of inheriting diseases. Over thousands of years of natural selection, they have developed strong survival instincts and a robust constitution. With regular vaccinations and deworming, they are generally healthy, free from hereditary diseases, and can live up to 20 years with proper care.

2. Price Variations

Pet cats, bred and transported with care, come at a higher cost due to the time and effort invested in their breeding. Their prices often start from a few thousand and can soar into the tens of thousands for those with exceptional appearances. Stray cats, on the other hand, being native to China, have no such costs and can often be adopted for free, making them a more budgetfriendly option.

3. Distinctive Appearances

Pet cats are bred to meet aesthetic standards, resulting in a more uniform look among the same breed. While they may be visually appealing, they lack unique characteristics. Stray cats, however, are the product of mixed breedings, each with its own distinctive features. There are many varieties of stray cats in China, such as the lion cat, the mottled cat, the cow cat, and the orange cat. The mottled cat, in particular, is quite popular abroad.

4. Character Differences

Pet cats, having been carefully bred and domesticated, tend to have more stable personalities and are generally affectionate and docile, providing a pleasant pet ownership experience. Stray cats, often left to roam freely, are more independent and may exhibit a wilder nature. They require time and effort to be tamed and may not be as compliant as pet cats. However, once they bond with their owners, they are fiercely loyal and can be incredibly gentle, while remaining aloof with strangers.

5. Feeding and Care Difficulty

Pet cats, pampered by their owners, are often more delicate and may lack the survival skills of their wild counterparts. Many pet cats have sensitive stomachs, prone to issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and soft stools, requiring significant care and potentially expensive treatments. Stray cats, with their stronger constitutions and active lifestyles, are less prone to health problems. They can thrive in human care or live independently in the wild, making them easier to maintain.

In summary, whether considering the difficulty of care or the cost, stray cats have several advantages. Choosing to adopt a stray cat can be a rewarding and costeffective decision.