Description: Keetso
The Keetso is a unique and relatively recent cat breed known for its wild appearance combined with a domestic temperament. The name 'Keetso' means 'big footed' in Navajo, which is a nod to the breed’s notably large and polydactyl paws. The Keetso cat is characterized by its distinctive physical features that include a muscular build, large, rounded ears, and a long tail. They are often compared to wild cats due to their almond-shaped eyes and unusual coat markings that can resemble those of a wild cat, such as the Bengal or the Savannah. Despite their fierce appearance, Keetso cats are known for their friendly and gentle personality, making them excellent companions. They are also intelligent and playful, enjoying interactive toys and games that challenge their mind.
Properties
The Keetso is a captivating and relatively new breed of domestic cat characterized by its wild appearance and friendly temperament. Named after the Navajo word meaning 'big footed,' one of the most striking features of the Keetso is its large, polydactyl paws, which give it a distinctively wild and rugged look reminiscent of big jungle cats. This unusual trait not only adds to their exotic appeal but also suggests an evolutionary advantage, providing better grip and handling abilities in various terrains.
The breed was developed in the United Kingdom with a deliberate effort to combine the physical grandeur of wild cats with the affable nature of domestic cats. This was primarily achieved through selective breeding, incorporating traits from breeds like Bengals and other domestic cats. The result is a beautiful animal with a solid and muscular build, wild-looking almond-shaped eyes, and a stunning coat that often features spots or marbled patterns similar to that of a wild leopard or tiger.
Keetso cats are known for their loving and social behavior. They often exhibit a strong attachment to their human companions and possess a playful demeanor well into adulthood. They are intelligent and curious, making them quick learners who can easily adapt to household routines and even respond well to obedience training. This makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. The breed's gentle nature is also conducive to households with children or other pets, as they are typically very patient and tolerant.
Appearance aside, the Keetso cat’s health and care are similar to other domestic breeds but require some specific attention due to their large size and active nature. Adequate exercise is crucial in preventing obesity, which can be a risk if not managed with a proper diet and regular activity. Their coat, depending on the length, may require regular grooming to maintain its luster and reduce shedding.
The enchantment of having a Keetso as a pet comes not only from its striking appearance but also from its interactive and affectionate behavior, making it a unique and beloved member of any household. Its characteristics reflect a harmonious balance between the allure of the wild and the comforts of a domestic companion.
Appearance
Keetso cats are one of the more unique and captivating breeds with distinguishing features that set them apart from other feline breeds. The most notable trait of the Keetsos is their large and slightly downturned ears that give them an almost wild, big-cat appearance, reminiscent of their wildcat ancestors. This striking feature is enhanced by their wide almond-shaped eyes that are usually deep yellow or green, adding to their mysterious and intense look.
The body of a Keetso is muscular and substantial, reflecting strength and agility. They have a broad chest and powerfully built legs which are slightly longer than average for cats, contributing to their impressive and somewhat formidable stance. Despite their robust build, they move with a graceful and fluid motion that is captivating to observe. Keetsos come in both short and long-haired varieties, each with a dense, plush coat that can vary in a wide range of colors and patterns, including tabby, marble, and pointed, among others.
The fur is soft to the touch and their tail is typically thick and bushy, often carrying markings that enhance their wild look. Known for their size, Keetsos are generally considered large for a domestic cat, and their strong features are balanced with a gentle curve of the muzzle and a well-defined, strong chin which gives insight into their determined personality.
Another distinctive characteristic is the polydactylism that some Keetsos possess. This genetic trait results in extra toes, which can make their paws look unusually large, aiding in their dexterity and perhaps contributing to their hunting prowess. Overall, the appearance of Keetso cats is not just about their aesthetic allure but also reflects their history and the selective breeding that aimed to retain the wild, majestic look of their ancestors while being perfectly suitable as a domestic companion.
History
The Keetso cat is a relatively new and rare breed known for its distinctive wild appearance and dog-like personality traits. The name 'Keetso' derives from a Navajo word meaning 'big footed,' a fitting description given their large, polydactyl paws. This breed was developed in the United Kingdom by breeding cats that naturally carried the polydactyl gene. The aim was to create a domestic cat with the look of a big cat but the temperament of a loving pet. The breed is notable for having a wild appearance similar to the American Lynx, featuring larger, wide-set polydactyl paws that give it a unique stance.
Development of the Keetso began in the early 2000s by breeder Liz Warner, who was inspired by her affection for wild-looking cats with gentle dispositions. Warner's goal was not just to develop a cat breed that stood out in its physical attributes but also one that would serve as a companionable household pet, possessing affable and sociable characteristics. The breed's development focused on achieving a robust physical structure, marked by a deep chest, substantial boning, and a muscular build, contributing to the cat's wild look.
Keetsos are known for their striking features which include a notable facial structure with a slightly turned-down nose, resembling big wild cats. Their ears are another distinctive trait, being small and rounded, yet tufted, enhancing their wild appearance. Additionally, their eyes are expressive and can be shades of gold, green or copper, adding to their intense gaze.
In terms of temperament, Keetsos are exceptionally loyal and bond closely with their families. Their affectionate nature and playful behavior make them excellent companions. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, often learning tricks and commands, which is unusual for most cat breeds. Despite their wild appearance, Keetsos are domestic cats and perform well in homes where they receive plenty of attention and stimulation.
While they are still relatively unknown to the general public and rare even in their country of origin, they have begun to attract attention from cat enthusiasts around the world for their unique appearance and engaging temperament. Currently, Keetsos are not recognized by major cat registries such as The International Cat Association (TICA) or the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), remaining an exotic and somewhat exclusive breed. Breed enthusiasts hope that with increased awareness and popularity, recognition from these organizations will soon follow.