Cat breeds that have disappeared

Last week I wrote about dog breeds that have become extinct. This week I thought it was only fair to explore the world of cats. As you are probably aware, many of the big cats have already disappeared or are on the endangered species list. Some are protected in zoos because there are none in the wild.

What about the domestic cat? Have we lost breeds of housecats? Yes and the reasons are the same for cats as dogs. Sometimes predators are the culprit, but more often they are bred into a similar breed. Often the strain of a particular breed just dies out. What is fashionable survives.

Gone but not forgotten is the Mexican Hairless cat. This cat was the last of the Aztec breed, which was found only in New Mexico. They were unusual looking with big ears and mouse- colored backs, with neck, stomach and legs a light-flesh tint. They were intelligent and affectionate. Sadly for them, it was hairless today, gone tomorrow.

Another interesting breed was the Oregon Rex. This cat breed was acknowledged as a separate breed from other Rex types because their coat variations occurred from spontaneous genetic mutation. Breeders in Oregon established a purebred Oregon Rex, which became America’s most popular Rex breed. It wasn’t long before all types of Rex cats were crossbred to the Oregon Rex, and the breed didn’t endure.

The strangest story of extinction turns out to be fabricated. The Pittsburgh Refrigerator cat was supposed to be a cat who could survive and thrive in the very cold temperatures of Pittsburgh warehouses. This cat had long, thick fur and resembled an Angora. It became an urban legend. In reality, the story turned out to be based on a white cat who was a pink-eyed albino.

I suppose it wouldn’t be too catty for me to say it doesn’t matter what the breed is because I think all cats are the cat’s meow.

IN NEED OF

Garage sale patrons. We will be inside at Oasis Community Church, 1520 S. Maine St., today and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. We have fabulous items. Many items are hard- to-find and one-of-a-kind treasures. You don’t want to miss this incredible treasure hunt.

Volunteers to walk dogs or play with cats. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

SHOUT OUT TO

Pastor Bill Vaughn and Oasis Community Church for allowing CAPS to use their facilities for our annual garage sale. It is so lovely to be indoors in a clean, nice space. A Four Paw Salute to you!

COME SEE US

CAPS will be at Walmart Oct. 21 with the Kissin’ Booth and a puckered up pooch. Come by to get your pooch smooch.

DON’T FORGET

September Pet Holidays: Responsible Dog Ownership Day, Sept. 19.

CAPS annual garage sale held today and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. inside at Oasis Community Church, 1520 S. Maine St.

To mark your calendar for the CAPS Murder Mystery Dinner on Oct. 28 at 6. More details will follow.

Flower Tree Nursery will be raffling a 20-gallon blur spruce tree on Dec. 16, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets

CONTACT CAPS

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89406. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likable.

Do you have questions, comments or a great story? Contact me at jkwmil@outlook.com.

Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer, contributed this week’s column.