History of occurrence
The Skookum cat was developed from crosses between Munchkins and LaPerms with the aim of creating a short-legged cat with a curly coat. The original crosses were carried out in the 1990s by Roy Galusha, and other breeders joined the breeding programme, with breeders in the USA, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. The Skookum is currently recognised as an Experimental breed by Independent European Registries, The Dwarf Cat Association and the registry Catz Inc in New Zealand. It is also accepted for registration by The International Cat Association (TICA) as an experimental variety but use of the breed name has not yet been approved in TICA, as information was required by the organisation to demonstrate that the word did not have negative connotations. In Australia the Skookum may compete at championship level and the first Skookum champion was Double Grand Champion Shortland BC Little Miss Moppet, bred by Twink McCabe and owned by David Richardson and Christine Brelsford, whose title was won in Australia's only national cat registry, the WNCA.
General form
Skookum is a small, short-legged cat, very similar to a related breed called the Munchkin, but with curls similar to its other parent breed, the LaPerm. Its head is a broad modified wedge shape with rounded contours and medium large walnut shaped eyes.
Отличительная особенность породы Skookum cat
The head is slightly rounded with higher-set cheekbones and a medium muzzle.
The nose is medium-long with a slight stop right between the eyes.
The ears are medium to large, very large at the base, and quite high set.
The eyes are shaped like walnuts and shine with an inner brilliance that makes this cat very attractive as a pet.
Due to its Munchkin parent, it will usually have shortened legs, especially shortened front legs.
In proportion to the body.
From the LaPerm parent, the Skookum inherits a curly coat. This coat could be long or short, and since it the LaPerm is a form of Rex, and Rexes are known for not shedding very much, the Skookum tends to be a low-shedding cat. Longhaired cats tend to have a loosely curled coat which stands away from the body.
Regardless of hair length the Skookum should have very prominent curled whiskers and eyebrows.
These cats can come in many colours. Some are colorpoints, others are solid color. There are tabbies, bicolors, and spotted Skookums. At the moment, the Skookum can come in any color present in the Munchkin or LaPerm lines. However, there is currently an effort to standardize the colors of the Skookum coat.
Character
Skookums tend to be very affectionate and sweet. Despite their somewhat awkward appearance, these cats are confident, self-assured, outgoing, and curious. This can lead them into trouble sometimes as they explore where they should not. Their playfulness rivals that of any other breed, and their shortened legs do not seem to hamper them at all. They can run, jump, and climb as well as any other cat, and will often dash off to hide in their own version of hide-and-seek.
Maintenance care
The Skookum cat is a low maintenance cat breed. To keep its coat clean and in good condition, a gentle brush once or twice a week is all that is required.
Annual vaccinations, deworming and dental check-ups, coupled with a healthy diet and exercise will ensure that your cat remains healthy.
A well balanced, premium cat food is critical to the health of your feline companion.
It is also important that your cat has access to fresh, clean drinking water.
Milk should be avoided as many cats are lactose intolerant. Cat treats should be limited and only give your cat healthy treats!
The perfect home for the Skookum is with a caring family that will provide this small cat with a safe, indoor environment.
Of course your cat can venture outdoors provided that it is into an enclosed, escape-proof garden or a cat enclosure.
Lifespan — 12-16 years.
Dignity
Low maintenance, low shedding coat.
Good with other animals and children.
Difficulty keeping
Despite their somewhat awkward appearance, these cats are confident, self-assured, outgoing, and curious. This can lead them into trouble sometimes as they explore where they should not.
Diseases
The Skookum doesn’t appear to have any health problems that a prospective buyer needs to be concerned about, but as with all pets you are spending large amounts of money to acquire it is best to receive a certificate of health from the breeder and have the condition and health of your new pet evaluated by your vet within 72 hours of your purchase.
