THE SHORT-HAIRED CAT 195 



markings mixed in with the Tortoiseshell, and this is 

 where I notice many of them fail, as each colour should 

 be quite pure and distinct. 



They are usually of rather small size, but keen 

 vermin hunters, and make good mothers. I do not think 

 any variety of domestic cat is possessed of more spirit 

 and courage, and they will seldom turn their back to any 

 foe, when fairly roused. 



I like them as house or stable cats as well as any. I 

 have had some of them about the place for very many years, 

 and found them sociable and affectionate and with less 

 timidity or nerves about them than almost any other variety. 



The head should be of moderate size, very round in 

 shape, with a short face, and rather long neck and narrow 

 shoulders. 



The ears small, carried very upright and open, with 

 general idea of alertness. 



The eyes brilliant, full and large, round in shape and 

 orange yellow in colour ; very intelligent expression. 



The legs rather long than short or cloddy, fine in 

 bone, and the feet round and small. 



The body long and narrow, with sloping shoulders, 

 more muscle than fat everywhere. 



The tail should be rather long, not thin or lanky, as 

 they often are, and marked with the three colours. 



The coat should be short, fine and shiny, and very 

 sleek and smooth to the touch. 



The condition should be firm, hard and muscular, the 

 general appearance denoting grace and activity. 



The size of males need not be given, as they are so 



