Have you ever spotted a cat that looks like it walked straight out of the jungle? The Keetso cat might be what you’re looking for.
This relatively new breed has been turning heads with its wild appearance and gentle temperament.
The Keetso cat is created through careful breeding of several domestic cat breeds, primarily combining Scottish Folds and American Curls with other breeds to achieve their distinctive “big cat” appearance.
The name “Keetso” comes from the Navajo language and means “Big Footed One,” which perfectly describes one of their charming physical traits.
These cats were developed specifically to resemble wild felines while maintaining friendly, domesticated personalities.
Currently, Keetso cats remain quite rare, with only two breeders worldwide dedicated to developing this emerging breed.
While they are not yet recognized by major cat associations, enthusiasts are drawn to their unique look that combines larger physical traits than average cats with a surprisingly sweet, puppy-like disposition.
Their distinctive appearance makes them particularly prized pets, though this unfortunately also makes them targets for pet thieves.
Origins Of The Keetso Cat
The Keetso cat is a relatively new and emerging breed in the feline world.
This distinctive cat began its development through careful and selective breeding aimed at creating a domestic cat with features resembling wild big cats.
The name “Keetso” comes from a Navajo word meaning “big footed,” which highlights one of the breed’s most distinctive physical traits.
This name was specifically chosen to reflect the large paws that breeders selected for in these cats.
Development of the Keetso began when breeders started selecting cats with specific traits including:
- Larger than average paws
- Bigger heads
- Longer facial structure
- Inverted heart-shaped muzzle
- Large nose
- Muscular build
The breeding program focused on creating cats that maintain a wild appearance while having domestic temperaments. Unlike some designer breeds, Keetsos were developed with both aesthetics and personality in mind.
It’s important to note that the Keetso is not yet recognized by major cat registries. According to some feline enthusiasts, the breed may face challenges gaining official recognition due to its combination of structural mutation traits.
The breed’s development has primarily occurred in the UK, where several breeders have been working to establish consistent traits. Their growing popularity has unfortunately made them targets for pet thieves due to their rarity and distinctive appearance.
What Breeds Make A Keetso Cat?
The Keetso cat breed is a relatively new and developing feline variety that was specifically bred to resemble wild big cats. They were created through careful selective breeding to emphasize certain physical traits.
Keetsos are not a naturally occurring breed but rather the result of intentional crossbreeding between several domestic cat breeds. The primary breeds used in developing the Keetso include:
Primary Breeds in Keetso Development:
- Maine Coon
- American Polydactyl
- Domestic Shorthair
- Domestic Longhair
The name “Keetso” comes from a Najaro word meaning “big footed,” which references one of their distinctive features – polydactyl paws with extra toes.
These cats were specifically developed to have larger physical traits than average domestic cats. Breeders selected parent cats with wild-looking features while maintaining a fully domestic temperament.
It’s important to note that Keetsos are not hybrid cats with actual wild DNA, despite some misconceptions. They are domestic cats bred to have a wild appearance.
According to some breeding communities, the Keetso is not yet recognized by major cat registries like TICA (The International Cat Association) due to the combination of structural mutation traits they possess.
The breeding program focuses on maintaining the distinctive physical characteristics while ensuring the cats have friendly, sociable temperaments suitable for family pets.
Characteristics Of Keetso Cat
The Keetso cat breed has a striking appearance designed to resemble wild big cats. Their most notable feature is their large size, particularly their oversized paws which reflect their name – “Keetso” means “big footed” in Navajo language.
These cats have muscular builds with substantial bone structure that gives them an impressive presence. They typically weigh more than average domestic cats due to their deliberate breeding for larger physical traits.
The coat of a Keetso can vary in color and pattern, but many display exotic markings reminiscent of wildcats. Their fur is generally plush and requires regular grooming to maintain its condition.
Physical Traits:
- Large, wide-set paws
- Muscular, robust body
- Wild-looking coat patterns
- Substantial bone structure
- Medium to large size
Regarding temperament, Keetsos are known for their affectionate and devoted nature. Unlike their wild appearance might suggest, they typically have what breeders describe as a “puppy dog temperament” – friendly and social.
These cats often form strong bonds with their human families. They tend to be intelligent and playful, requiring mental stimulation and interactive toys to keep them engaged.
Keetsos are relatively new to the cat breed world, having been developed through careful selective breeding. Currently, there are only two breeders worldwide who specialize in this emerging breed.
Their rarity and distinctive appearance make them highly sought after, which unfortunately has led to them becoming targets for pet thieves. Owners should take appropriate security measures to protect these valuable companions.
