Moggies, often referred to as domestic short-haired or long-haired cats, are a fascinating category of felines that have not been intentionally bred. Unlike their purebred counterparts, moggies do not conform to a specific breed standard, making them unique in appearance and personality. This article delves into the characteristics and classification of moggies, highlighting their prevalence and the role they play in the world of cats.
The Characteristics of Moggies
Moggies are
distinguished by their lack of a consistent appearance, which is a stark contrast to purebred cats that are selectively bred to meet specific standards. This means that moggies can come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and coat lengths. In contexts where cats need to be registered, such as veterinary practices or shelters, moggies are often classified based on their coat length as domestic short-haired (DSH) or domestic long-haired (DLH) cats. Less common designations include domestic medium-haired (DMH) or domestic semi-long-haired.
The vast majority of cats worldwide are moggies, lacking any pedigree ancestry. This makes them incredibly diverse, as they do not adhere to the strict breeding guidelines that define purebred cats. As a result, moggies can exhibit a wide range of physical characteristics and temperaments, making each one unique.
Classification and Registration
In the world of cat fancy, moggies are often classified using organization-specific terminology. For example, domestic short-haired cats may be referred to as "Domestic Shorthair" (DSH) or "House Cat, Shorthair" (HCS) by various organizations. These classifications are used for registry purposes as well as for shelter and rescue classification. While moggies are not bred as show cats, some domestic short-haired cats are pedigreed and can be entered into cat shows that have non-purebred "Household Pet" divisions.
The classification of moggies can vary depending on the organization. For instance, the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) allows for any eye color, coat color, pattern, coat length, or texture, and any length of tail. Other organizations may have more restrictive rules, such as the World Cat Federation, which does not recognize certain colors or patterns.
The Prevalence of Moggies
Moggies are incredibly common, with domestic short-haired cats making up 95% of the cat population in the United States. In the UK, 89-92% of cats are of non-pedigree lineage. This prevalence highlights the importance of moggies in the world of cats, as they represent the majority of the feline population.
Despite their lack of pedigree, moggies are beloved by many for their unique appearances and diverse personalities. They are often seen as the quintessential house cat, embodying the traits that many people love about felines. Whether short-haired or long-haired, moggies continue to be a popular choice for cat lovers around the world.
