![]() With these cats came a new line of Sokoke cats, with distinct differences from those from Slater’s breeding line. These produced litters that were eventually exported to Europe and the United States. Later, Jeannie Knocker, an English citizen who lived near Slater in Kenya, decided to gather more feral cats from the Sokoke forest area. Around the same time, Jeni Slater provided foundation stock to an Italian breeder named Bob Schwartz. The Denmark breeding program expanded in 1989, with the addition of more cats from Kenya. It is possible that the lynx point pattern seen in some Sokoke cats originated with this individual. This time, it was a darker-colored street cat, also from Watamu. In 1987, Slater brought in another cat to enhance genetic diversity. ![]() The Sokoke cat breeding program was expanded in 1983, when Gloria Moeldrop brought a pair of Slater’s cats to Denmark. Some were obtained as kittens, and others were adult feral cats that she tamed with the help of food rewards. In 1978, Slater began her breeding program in earnest, using cats from the Watamu area. Another theory – and the most probably – is that the foundation cats were feral khadzonzo cats, which are naturally occurring domestic cats. She eventually took two kittens: A male and a female, and from these two, a new cat breed was formed.īecause the cats she found had such unusual markings, Slater believed that they might be wildcats, although other theories suggest that the queen might have been a cross between a domestic cat and a wildcat, or that the cat might have had a genetic mutation that led to her unique appearance. In 1977, wildlife artist Jeni Slater found a cat and kittens living near the edge of a forest on a tract of land her family owned in Kenya’s eastern Sokoke district. They are not well-suited to life outdoors. They can develop tolerance for cool temperatures, but prefer to keep cozy. When family members return from a long day at work, the Sokoke is usually right there to say hello and have a chat about everything that happened during their human’s absence.Īlso read: The 9 Friendliest & Nicest Cat Breeds In the Worldīecause Sokoke cats originated in a warm climate and have low cold tolerance, these kitties do best with families that also appreciate warmth. ![]() While Sokoke cats can make lifelong friends with kids, other felines, and respectful dogs, they are a touch less tolerant than most, making careful introductions even more important than usual.ĭespite this kitty’s insistence on respect, most individuals love everyone and when well-socialized, will even greet strangers at the door. Speaking of claws, this cat isn’t afraid to lash out when threatened or disrespected. Any small item can become a toy for this curious kitty, so it’s important to keep important objects secured or risk having them chewed and clawed into oblivion. Since these cats like water, it’s important to secure aquariums well, too. ![]() Cupboards and drawers don’t present much of an obstacle to the Sokoke, making cat-proofing well worth the effort. Sokoke Forest cats are accomplished athletes, with a fondness for active pursuits. They have a marked distaste for being picked up and snuggled instead, they prefer to follow their family members around, sometimes opting to rest alongside a favorite person during downtime. These cats do enjoy human companionship, but only on their terms. If you’re looking for a cuddly, cozy companion, you might find the Sokoke cat a bit aloof. A striking coat, a friendly personality, and a fondness for conversation makes this unique breed one to consider. Also known as the Sokoke Forest cat or the African Shorthair, the Sokoke is an exotic-looking breed that originated in Eastern Kenya.
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