The York Chocolate is a medium to large cat, big-boned and muscular. Some Siamese ancestry is assumed, as the head is a rounded wedge, longer than it is wide. The large, pointed ears tilt forward; the almond-shaped eyes may be green, gold, or hazel. Yorks are solid or bi coloured in chocolate or lilac. The medium-long, glossy coat is silky and close-lying, with a thin undercoat that is not prone to matting. Yorks have a plumed tail, toe tufts, and a modest neck ruff.
The York is a true lap cat, one that is happy to be held and cuddled, though not sedate and docile; in fact they are active, intelligent, and curious, constantly monitoring the activities of their owners.
History
The owner of a New York State goat dairy had a farm cat named Blackie that in 1983 presented her with a litter of kittens. One of these kittens, named Brownie, had her own litter of kittens, and so appeared a longhaired black male named Minky. Minky and Brownie produced Teddy Bear and Cocoa. Their owner, who was running out of names for brown cats, noticed a consistency in body and coat type among the kittens and initiated a breeding program.
Breed Description:
Head: Nearly round. Rounded skull. Slightly domed forehead. Moderately long muzzle. Nose without break. Chin in line with tip of nose.
Eyes: Fairly large, well-spaced, slightly oval, lemon-shaped. Colour: gold to green.
Neck: Long, thin.
Body: Long, midway between Oriental and foreign types. Should not be heavy. Fine-boned with slender muscles.
Paw: Long and fine-boned with firm muscles. Small, rounded paws. Long hairs between the toes.
Tail: Long, thin, straight, tapering to a slender tip. Well-furnished.
Coat: Semi long, fine, soft, silky hair. Very fluffy tail. May have a ruff. Colour: solid chocolate, solid lilac, and these same colours in a bicolor version (n). Kittens are much lighter than adults. Tabby markings and tipping are acceptable up to 18 months.
Fault: Head too Oriental in type. Weak chin. Oriental-type eyes. Heavy body. Disqualify: white spots or lockets.
Behaviour:
These lively, energetic cats are good hunters so a bell is required if they are to venture outdoors, and even then, don't expect this to be overly effective. Playful and affectionate, they are good companions.
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