The Singapura cat, one of the most miniature domestic cat breeds (only four to eight pounds when fully grown), stands out with its sepia fur, big bright eyes, large pointed ears, and muscular physique. Despite its small size, the Singapura is energetic and athletic. There is some controversy on the origins of the Singapura, but consensus is that the breed occurred naturally in Singapore, where it was collected and brought it back to the US to start a breeding program in the 1970s. Once a common street cat in Singapore, these purebred felines are now rare, prized pets. Singapuras are loving, loyal pets that make for years and years of close companionship.

Characteristics of the Singapura

The Singapura has a very social personality. loves to be involved in your daily activities, and is happiest when they are with family. Singapuras thrive on company, both human and animal—including dogs when introduced at an early age. As a result, they do not do well when left alone for long periods. Singapuras usually stop growing at around two years of age.

History of the Singapura

The history of the Singapura is somewhat controversial. The widely accepted narrative is that the Singapura originated naturally on the streets of Singapore, where two American breeders, Tommy and Hal Meadow, spotted the cats and flew them back to the US in 1975. They then began a breeding program with three Singaporian brown ticked cats in the late 1970s. However, in 1987, another American breeder, Jerry Mayes, came across importation papers that suggested that the original three cats had been flown from the US to Singapore in 1974. The Meadows brothers were accused of passing off an Abyssinian/Burmese mix as a novel breed. A CFA investigation found no wrongdoing on behalf of the Meadows, but there is still doubt as to whether or not the Singapura is a natural breed, and the overall truth of the Meadows' story.

After the CFA completed its investigation, Singapore adopted the Singapura as a tourism mascot for the city. The Singapura was accepted by TICA in 1979, by CFA in 1982, and was granted championship status in 1988.

Singapura Care

Caring for a Singapura cat is relatively straightforward. As always, understanding how best to care for your cat improves its quality of life.

Exercise

The Singapura is a naturally curious and athletic cat, so mental and physical stimulation is important for its health and wellbeing. The exercise needs for the Singapura are standard to those of most domestic cats. Light, daily exercise using toys, jumping posts, or fetch should be enough to satisfy the breed's needs. The Singapura is intelligent and can be trained to do tricks.

Shedding

Although not considered hypoallergenic, the Singapura is a light shedder. It has a short coat and fine hair, making it a good option for a dander-sensitive owner.

Grooming

The Singapura requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing, ear-debris checking, and occasional nail-trimming will be enough to meet your cat's grooming needs. Periodic tooth-brushing with a cat toothbrush is also a good idea.

Common Health Problems

Every cat owner should be on the lookout for common health issues, no matter the breed, and the Singapura is no exception. The Singapura has a few predispositions that are important to be aware of. These include:

• Pyruvate kinase deficiency: PKD is a red blood cell condition that causes cats to develop hemolytic anemia. While most cats with PKD can live normal lives, they may be affected by symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and jaundice.
• Uterine inertia: This condition makes it difficult for the Singapura to have contractions while giving birth. The issue appeared in one of the foundational breeding Singapura cats and continues to affect the breed.

Appearance

The Singapura is among the littlest domestic cats. Despite its miniature size, its frame is muscular and athletic, with strong legs and a stocky neck. The Singapura has a rounded head, pointed ears, large angular green, hazel, or gold eyes, and a relatively short tail. It has ticked tabby markings and a short, glossy, sepia coat. The Singapura is not hypoallergenic, but its short coat creates only minimal shedding.

Diet and Nutrition

To ensure a long and healthy life for your Singapura, feed it high-quality cat food, suitable for the cat's small size and high energy level. You may opt for a raw food diet, in which case, consult your vet to ensure it includes all necessary nutrients. Singapuras are grazers, meaning they like to return to their food throughout the day and not eat it all at once.

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Where to Adopt or Buy a Singapura

The Singapura is an uncommon breed, which may make it challenging to find these cats in local shelters, or even shelters specializing in purebreds. However, it's always good practice to check with local rescue organizations before you contact a breeder. Buying a Singapura from a breeder typically costs between $800 and $2000, and competition-eligible Singapura cats can cost over $3000.

Breed Overview

The Singapura makes for a great addition to any family. Its high activity level and playful nature are best suited for owners able to give the cat ample attention. The Singapura's love for jumping and climbing may cause some frustration, but your cat's naughty desires will likely be satisfied with adequate play and stimulation.

More Cat Breeds and Further Research

If you are interested in breeds similar to the Singapura, check out:

• Abyssinian
• Munchkin
• Burmese

Otherwise, check out all of our other cat breed profiles.