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If you are looking for a cat that is affectionate, loyal, sweet, playful, highly intelligent, and incredibly beautiful, you need to check out the York Chocolate. This cat looks almost black, but it actually has a dark, chocolate brown coat, or it can be a lavender color.
It has medium-long fur that is soft and fine, and although it is a relatively newer breed, it is quickly gaining in popularity because of its beauty and wonderful personality. It has a muscular body with a rounded head, and a gorgeous, long, fluffy tail.
Origin and history of the breed
As mentioned in the introduction, the York Chocolate is a newer breed, developed in the early 1980s by breeder Janet Cheifari. This breed started when one of her long-haired cats had a litter of beautiful kittens, and the breeder knew she just had to keep the line going.
Two farm cats came together to create the York Chocolate, producing Brownie, which had a glossy, chocolate brown coat. It was recognized by the Cat Fanciers Federation and the American Cat Fanciers Association as an experimental breed in 1990, and by 1992, it was given breed championship status.
The York Chocolate cat was originally bred in New York in 1983 when two farm cats paired up to create their beautiful offspring. Brownie, their kitten, was used to create the breed, which is like no other in the world. Originally, a six-month-old male was taken to a CFF cat show, and was registered in the pet category.
Learn more about York Chocolate Cat in the short video below:
Today, these cats have full CFF Championship status in the United States, as well as from the Canadian Cat Association. Unfortunately, because they are a newer and rarer breed, it can often be difficult to find breeders in all states.
If you are looking for one of these cats, you may end up having to expand your search to various states before you find the right cat for you.
Physical standards of the breed
Let’s take a look at the various physical standards for the York Chocolate cat. We will talk about their health, grooming, size, as well as how to care for your cat.
Health and possible diseases
First of all, let’s start out by saying that if you talk to a breeder and they tell you that their cats will have no health issues, it’s time to look for other breeders. Cats, just like any other pets, and humans for that matter, can be prone to a number of health issues, including genetic health problems.
In general, the York Chocolate has no known genetic health problems. Regular vet visits will help to ensure a long, healthy life.
Grooming
One of the things you need to realize about a long-haired cat such as the York Chocolate is that it requires a substantial amount of grooming.
You should try to brush or comb the cat at least two to three times weekly to avoid matting of the fur. Also, trim the toenails and clean the ears once weekly.
Height and size
The York Chocolate is a rather large cat, and can stand quite tall. Typically, they can be at least 15 inches tall at the back. Some are smaller, but this is an average height to go by when you are deciding if this is the breed for you.
Weight
The male York Chocolate usually weighs in at around 15 to 16 pounds, while the females tend to weigh a bit less, usually around 12 pounds. These cats are on the larger side, and have a tendency to become obese if you aren’t careful with their diets.
Activeness
This is a cat that is active, playful, and highly intelligent. You are definitely going to have your hands full with this one, but it’s going to be a whole lot of fun.
You can train your York Chocolate to do various tricks and play games, and it loves to be involved with what you are doing.
Hypoallergenic
If you or someone in your home has allergies, owning a long-haired cat can be a challenge. But, it isn’t out of the question.
There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat, but there are ways you can cut down on allergens in the home, including regular grooming and keeping up with daily vacuuming to keep cat hair to a minimum.
Lifespan
The York Chocolate has a life expectancy of about 13 to 15 years. Of course, if your cat is receiving regular vet care, and you are feeding it a healthy, well-balanced diet, your York Chocolate could definitely outlive this projected lifespan.
Caring Difficulty
Caring for a York Chocolate is pretty much the same as caring for any long-haired cat. You need to make sure that it is groomed regularly.
Weekly brushing isn’t enough. It is best to get into the habit of brushing at least once daily. Also, make sure that you are feeding your cat best quality cat food with the right nutrient.
Where to get a York Chocolate
It isn’t likely that you are going to walk into a pet store and find a York Chocolate. This is a newer and rarer breed, and in most cases, you are going to have to contact a breeder in order to get a purebred kitten or cat.
Because they aren’t among the more common cats, it may take a bit of searching to find a breeder in your area, and you may need to expand your search.
You can also try local classified ads. You never know, someone may be selling their cat for any number of reasons. Don’t forget animal shelters as well.
Sure, it can be hit or miss, but there have been many occasions when purebred cats have made their way to shelters for any number of reasons.
How much does a York Chocolate Cat cost?
The cost of a York Chocolate often depends on the breeder. Unfortunately, there are few websites that will actually tell you the cost of one of these cats.
You will have to contact the various breeders yourself to inquire about the price. What we can tell you is that you can expect to spend a minimum of $800 for one of these cats.
Choosing the right type of York Chocolate
There are no specific types of York Chocolate cats. They are a medium to large-sized cat with a long coat. Generally, the coat is rich chocolate brown (almost black), or a beautiful lavender.
Their coats are fine and shiny, and they tend to have a lean and muscular build. More important than the type of cat, it is the personality type you should be looking at.
You will know when you have found the right cat for you when it meshes with your own personality.
Responsibilities to consider in the care of a York Chocolate Cat
There are few things more rewarding than pet ownership. That being said, pet ownership is also a huge responsibility that should never be taken lightly. You are responsible for the health and well-being of your pet.
Make sure your York Chocolate cat has regular veterinary care, and that you are feeding it a healthy, well-balanced diet that will promote health and help to avoid obesity.
Regular grooming is important for a cat like this with longer fur, along with toenail clipping and ear cleaning. Also, find ways to make sure your cat gets plenty of exercise.
Other than that, you need to make sure your cat has a comfortable, warm place to relax, preferably where they can be alone for a while when they need it.
Characteristics of York Chocolates
Let’s talk about some of the characteristics of the York Chocolate, including temperament, pattern, and behavior.
Behavior
Like any cat, the York Chocolate can be a bit stubborn at times, but in general, this is a cat that is friendly and outgoing, and enjoys attention.
Pattern
There is no pattern on the coat of this cat. You will find them in shades of dark, chocolate brown and lavender.
Affectionate
This is a loving cat that wants your attention, but isn’t going to be overly demanding about it.
Dog/child-friendly
These cats tend to choose one person as “their person,” but they are friendly to most people, including children. It is very social, and will get along with dogs and other cats.
Intelligence
The York Chocolate is an incredibly intelligent cat, and it can easily be trained to play a variety of games. It loves to be in the middle of the action, and will keep a close eye on whatever you are doing.
Energy
This is a cat that has lots of energy, but is not hyperactive. It is lively and intelligent, and loves to play games with its people.
Maintenance
Because the York Chocolate is a semi long-haired cat, it is going to require more grooming and maintenance than a short-haired cat. This cat requires regular brushing or combing (daily is best).
Types of York Chocolates
As mentioned earlier, there is really only one type of York Chocolate Cat. But, you can choose between a couple of colorations.
If you prefer a darker colored cat, the chocolate brown would be best for you. If you prefer a lighter color, check out the beauty of the lavender coat on some York Chocolates.
York Chocolates compared to other Breeds
There are all kinds of long-haired cats you could consider, including the Angora cat, which also has long, fine fur that is soft and shiny.
But, if you are looking for a rarer breed that has these characteristics, the York Chocolate may be the better option for you. Plus, they have a tendency to be more outgoing and friendly than the Angora.
Conclusion
If you have decided that you would like to be the proud parent of a York Chocolate cat, you will be getting a pet that is as loyal as it is lovable and friendly.
These cats love to play and have lots of energy, but they are just as content to sit and cuddle on your lap. They love people and other animals, and this type of cat will make a great addition to your home.