A medium-to-large, long-bodied cat with solid bone, a softened wedge head, large ears and a long tapering tail. The semi-long coat is fine, silky and shiny.12
Colourssolid chocolatesolid lilac (lavender)chocolate or lilac with white12
Personality what they are like
Friendly and steady with its family, affectionate and fond of laps, yet playful and clever. It could be reserved with strangers.23
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Energetic; enjoyed climbing, scratching posts and chase games.3
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Regular brushing of the semi-long coat keeps it tidy and tangle-free.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available; portion treats so the cat stays trim.3
Company who they like around
Devoted to its people and happiest with company.23
The story where it all began
Janet Chiefari's farm cat Brownie, born in 1983, was bred to a half-brother in 1985 and produced chocolate kittens, and a lilac colour followed in 1990. The breed won recognition with several smaller registries but always stayed tiny, with about 60 cats in 2005, and it is now thought to be gone or nearly so.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed is named after New York State, where it began.3
2
Many York Chocolates were said to enjoy water, and some played fetch.2
3
By 1989 the founding cattery already housed 27 chocolate cats.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'York Chocolate' combines the name of the state of New York, where the breed was established in 1983, with the rich chocolate color of its coat.1
I woke up this morning and stretched my paws on the sunbeam streaming through the window. After a quick grooming session, I patrolled my domain, the living room, and checked my scratching post. I pounced on a feathered toy my human dangled for me, then curled up in her lap for a long, purring nap. This afternoon, I climbed to the top of the cat tree to watch birds outside. Now I'm waiting for evening playtime, chase games are my favorite! Life is sweet.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my York Chocolate, and at what times?
Feed your York Chocolate a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available. Portion treats so your cat stays trim. For exact amounts and timing, check the food label and ask your vet.3
What should a York Chocolate eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Your York Chocolate needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol. For a full list, ask your vet.34
Does a York Chocolate need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a York Chocolate. Only bathe if your cat is very dirty or sticky, as per general cat care guidance. Regular brushing keeps the coat tidy instead.5
How often does a York Chocolate need brushing?
Brush your York Chocolate every 2 days to keep its semi-long coat tidy and tangle-free. Brush more often during shedding seasons. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests this routine.35Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a York Chocolate's claws, and how often?
Trim your York Chocolate's claws every 3 weeks, as per Furry Diary's starting plan. General guidance suggests trimming every 10 days to 2 weeks, doing no more than two claws per session at first. Ask your vet for a demonstration.5Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a York Chocolate need?
Your York Chocolate is energetic and enjoys climbing, scratching posts, and chase games. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends daily play sessions to keep your cat happy and healthy.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a York Chocolate's teeth and ears?
Brush your York Chocolate's teeth every 2 days, with daily brushing being ideal, as per Furry Diary's starting plan. For ears, check them regularly and ask your vet for cleaning advice. Never use cotton swabs. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a York Chocolate live?
A York Chocolate typically lives between 13 and 15 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a loving home, your cat can enjoy a long, happy life.3
Is a York Chocolate good with children and other pets?
Yes, the York Chocolate is friendly and steady with its family, affectionate and fond of laps, yet playful and clever. It could be reserved with strangers. Always supervise introductions with children and other pets.23
Can a York Chocolate be left alone?
The York Chocolate is devoted to its people and happiest with company, so it may not do well left alone for long periods. If you must leave it, provide toys and enrichment, and consider a pet sitter.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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