In the feline world, there are generally two main categories: alley cats, also called domestic or European cats, and purebred cats, which correspond to lineages selected for their particular characteristics.
If feline lovers are often divided as to their preferences, it is interesting to dwell on the notable differences between these two types of cats, whether in terms of behavior, health or diet.
This article proposes to analyze in an exhaustive way these divergences and to enlighten you on the specificities specific to each category.
Behaviour: nature versus nurture
In general, it is difficult to draw a composite portrait of the typical behavior of an alley cat or a purebred cat, as individuals can be variable within these two categories.
However, it is possible to identify certain trends depending on the origins and the living context of these animals. Regarding alley cats, their character is often the result of a natural evolution and an adaptation to their environment. Thus, an alley cat can show itself independent, suspicious or even opportunisticdepending on the circumstances that shaped his personality.
Some studies have shown that alley cats are generally more suspicious of humans than purebred cats, probably due to less exposure to domestication.
As for purebred cats, their behavior is often the result of a selection made by breeders, who seek to favor certain specific characteristics. Thus, a purebred cat can be more gentle, affectionate or playful than an alley cat, due to a selection that favored these character traits.
These remarks should be qualified by recalling that each cat is unique, and that behaviors also evolve according to the education and socialization of individuals. In addition, some purebred cats, such as the Siamese where the maine cooncan be particularly attached to their master and have very distinct personalities within their lineage.
Health: the impact of genetic origins
Another aspect that can differentiate alley cats and purebred cats concerns their respective health.
It is commonly accepted that alley cats enjoy better overall health than purebred cats, due to the genetic diversity that characterizes these animals. Indeed, alley cats being the result of random crossings, they present a genetic heterogeneity which protects them against certain diseases and ailments. This genetic diversity is reflected in particular by better resistance to infections, less susceptibility to allergies and a life expectancy generally higher than that of purebred cats.
Conversely, purebred cats are more likely to suffer from specific health problems, due to inbreeding that results from selection and breeding within restricted bloodlines. Certain breeds of cats are thus predisposed to particular affections, such as Persianwhich may be prone to kidney problems, or the bengalwhich has an increased risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
It should be noted that serious breeders generally take care to limit these risks by carrying out genetic tests and promoting diversification within their lines.
Food: specific needs depending on the breed
Although alley cats and purebred cats share similar basic nutritional needs, certain specificities can be observed depending on the breeds and morphological characteristics of these animals.
Thus, alley cats, often more active and independent, may need a diet higher in protein and fat, in order to meet their energy needs. In addition, their diet can vary depending on the environment in which they evolve, alley cats tend to consume more diverse foodmade up of prey, meal scraps and industrial food.
As far as purebred cats are concerned, their diet must be adapted to their morphological and physiological specificities. For example, long-haired breeds, such as the Persian where the Norwegianrequire a diet rich in essential fatty acids in order to maintain the beauty and health of their coat.
Likewise, some breeds, such as the Sphynx where the Siamese, may need a higher energy diet, due to their slim build and fast metabolism. Finally, it is important to point out that purebred cats are more susceptible to digestive problems, due to their genetic selection, and therefore may require a specific diet, adapted to their delicate digestive system.
In summary, while alley cats and purebred cats share common characteristics, there are notable differences in terms of behavior, health and diet. Alley cats are distinguished by their independent nature and their resistance, while purebred cats are characterized by more docile behaviors and specific needs related to their morphology and their genetics.
In the end, the choice between an alley cat and a purebred cat will essentially depend on the preferences and expectations of each owner, who will have to take into consideration the specificities of each category in order to guarantee well-being and fulfillment. of his feline companion.
