American Ringtail Cats: Care and Personality | What You Need to Know If You’re Thinking of Getting an American Ringtail Cat
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Last Updated: December 4, 2023
If you’re seeking a feline companion with a unique tail and an engaging personality, you may want to look into American Ringtail cats. With their distinctive ring-shaped tail and friendly disposition, these cats have captured the hearts of both old and new cat enthusiasts. Let’s get to know them better!
Brief History of American Ringtail Cats
Also called the Ringtail-Sing-a-Ling, the American Ringtail cat breed originated in California in the early 1990s when a stray cat with a naturally curved tail was discovered. Susan Manley, a cat lover, saw the potential in this unique trait and began a selective breeding program in 1999 to establish the American Ringtail breed.
Susan then started to work with other breeders in 2005. They bred the Ringtail cat with domestic shorthair cats and purebreds. In the same year, TICA (The International Cat Association) recognized the breed with a status of “Registration Only”.
It’s still considered an experimental breed, which means it cannot participate in shows and competitions. It is also rare and can be difficult to find.
Physical Features of American Ringtails
The American Ringtail cat is a medium-sized cat, with males typically weighing between 8 and 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kg) and females weighing slightly less.
One of the most notable features of this breed is its ring-shaped tail. It is highly flexible and can be curled, arched, or twisted in various ways, making each cat’s tail distinct and expressive.
In addition, American Ringtail cats have a graceful body structure, an elegant head shape, and come in a range of coat colors and patterns.
Personality of American Ringtails
American Ringtail cats are friendly and outgoing, making them wonderful companions. They are sociable cats that thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in their family’s activities.
They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. They love to be around people and other animals, and they are not aggressive or territorial. They are loyal and devoted companions that follow their owners around the house.
In addition, American Ringtail cats are intelligent and inquisitive, often showing curiosity and a playful spirit. They have a moderate activity level, enjoying interactive play sessions and exploration. They tend to be adaptable and can get along well with children and other pets when you introduce them properly. However, they tend to be reserved toward strangers.
Health Issues & Lifespan of American Ringtail Cats
American Ringtails are generally healthy cats with no breed-specific health concerns. However, it’s essential to provide them with routine veterinary care, including vaccinations, regular checkups, and preventive treatments for parasites.
With proper care and a balanced diet, American Ringtails can live a long and fulfilling life of around 15 to 20 years or more.
Special Care Needs of American Ringtails
American Ringtails have relatively low grooming needs due to their short-to-medium-length coats. Regular brushing helps maintain their coat’s cleanliness and minimizes shedding.
They also appreciate interactive play sessions and mental stimulation to keep them physically and mentally engaged. As such, providing scratching posts and toys can help fulfill their natural instincts.
Fun Facts About Ringtails
- American Ringtails use their uniquely flexible tails to express their moods and emotions. Each cat’s tail movement and position can convey messages of curiosity, playfulness, contentment, or even a friendly greeting.
- The American Ringtail cat is also known as the Ringtail Sing-a-Ling, because of its vocal and musical nature. They like to communicate with their owners with soft meows, purrs, or chirps.
- American Ringtail kittens are born with straight tails that gradually develop their characteristic ring shape as they grow. The tail continues to develop until they reach adulthood.
- Ringtail cats display their signature ring-shaped tail when they feel at ease and self-assured.
- You can expect to discover their toys hidden in various spots throughout your home, such as beneath the sofa, inside the magazine rack, and quite possibly in your sock drawer if you happen to leave it accessible.
- These felines are captivated by the scents of mint and bleach, responding to them as if they’ve been introduced to catnip. However, note that these are toxic to cats.
Who is the American Ringtail Cat Best Suited For?
The following individuals are the ideal owners of a ringtail cat as a pet:
- Individuals or families seeking an interactive and playful companion
- People who can provide regular social interaction and engage in interactive play sessions
- Those who appreciate the unique aesthetics and expressive tail of the American Ringtail
- Families with children and other pets, given proper introductions and socialization
- Owners who can provide a safe and enriching indoor environment
Final Thoughts
The American Ringtail cat offers a combination of unique physical traits and an engaging personality that sets them apart. With their expressive and flexible tails, friendly nature, and adaptability, they make delightful and captivating companions.
By understanding their specific needs and providing them with love, care, and stimulation, you can experience the joy and companionship that an American Ringtail cat brings to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are American Ringtail cats good with children?
American Ringtails are generally good with children and can form strong bonds with them. However, supervision and teaching children how to handle cats gently are important.
Do American Ringtail cats require a lot of grooming?
American Ringtails have low grooming needs due to their short-to-medium-length coats. Regular brushing helps maintain their coat’s cleanliness and minimizes shedding.
Are American Ringtail cats prone to any health issues?
American Ringtails are generally healthy cats with no specific breed-related health concerns. However, regular veterinary care is essential to maintain their overall health.
Are American Ringtail cats highly active?
American Ringtails have a moderate activity level. They enjoy interactive play sessions and exploration but are not excessively high-energy cats.
Do American Ringtail cats get along with other pets?
American Ringtails can get along well with other pets, including cats and dogs, when you introduce them properly and give them time to adjust.
Can you train American Ringtail cats?
Yes, American Ringtails are intelligent, and you can train them using positive reinforcement techniques. They enjoy interactive play and mental stimulation.
Are American Ringtail cats known for their vocalizations?
American Ringtails are vocal cats that enjoy communicating with their owners through a range of sounds, including metallic chirps, chucking, whimpers, and squeaks.
Do American Ringtail cats have a specific diet?
American Ringtails have no specific dietary requirements. Feed them balanced, high-quality cat food suitable for their age, and consult your veterinarian for any specific dietary recommendations.
Featured Image Credit: Susan Manley / Wikimedia Commons
Reina Marie Gonzales is the Founder of Sharp Minds Content LLC. She’s also an entrepreneur and a writer with over 20 years of experience. Cat mom to the sweetest and most adorable Persian kitty, her other passions include personal development, self-love, spirituality, and self-empowerment. She considers herself a lifelong learner and always sees the glass half full.
