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Have you ever wondered what is the rarest domestic cat breed in the world? After some research, I discovered that the Sokoke cat takes the title. With that said, here are eight facts about these cats.
1. There Are Less Than 100 in the World
It is estimated that there are less than 100 Sokoke cats in the world. With such a small population, these cats are considered to be very rare. So I guess chances are we will never see one in person. Sigh.
2. They Are Almost Extinct in the Wild
Sadly, these cats are almost extinct due to deforestation. Hopefully breeders will be able to produce more of this cat to prevent total extinction in the future.
3. The Sokoke Resembles a Tabby
This medium-sized breed resembles a wilder version of a domestic tabby because its coat has tabby markings. The Sokoke also has a long body, slender legs, high cheekbones, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. How cute!
4. Sokokes Are High-Energy
These high-energy cats require a lot of playtime. Aside from play, Sokokes love to jump and climb. Believe it or not, they also enjoy going out for walks. Umm… are these cats or dogs?
5. Sokoke Cats Are Social
Sokokes are considered to be very social animals, and are very inquisitive. They are also known to seek attention, and will even follow their human everywhere. How precious is that?
6. Sokokes Originate From the Coast of Kenya
Sokoke cats were originally found in the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Preserve, which is on the coast of Kenya. Ahhh, so that’s where their name comes from!
7. The Sokoke Cat is Relatively “New”
This breed is fairly new because it was discovered in 1977, when a litter was discovered near the edge of the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. Also, it was only in 2004 that the Sokoke was officially accepted for registration by the International Cat Association (TICA) . So, they’re basically newbies to the cat world!
8. Their Origin has Several Theories
Since the first discovered Sokokes were easy to tame, some think they must have been domestic cats that had gone wild, as opposed to true wild cats. However, other theorists think they are the result of a wild cat mating with a Kenyan domestic cat, or a genetic mutation. Hmm, the world may never know!
Which of these facts did you find the most interesting about the rarest domestic cat breed in the world? Tell us in the comments below.
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Resources
https://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/cats-101/videos/sokoke
https://cattime.com/cat-breeds/sokoke#/slide/1
https://www.petmd.com/cat/breeds/c_ct_sokoke_forest_cat
https://www.yourcat.co.uk/types-of-cats/sokoke-cat-breed-information/
Disclaimer: The Purring Journal is not in the medical field. This post is made for entertainment purposes only. Use the information presented in this article at your own risk. Always seek medical advice from licensed veterinarians.
