Straying Alive Cat Rescue

09/21/2026

09/09/2026

Next in our series of cat breeds history: The Black Cat

Black cats are known for their beautiful solid-black coats, which can range from deep jet black to softer charcoal shades. Black is a color rather than a breed, so many different cat breeds can have black coats. Some well-known breeds that commonly come in black include the Bombay, Maine C**n, British Shorthair, American Shorthair, Persian, Oriental Shorthair, Scottish Fold, and Turkish Angora.

Black cats have been part of human history for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, cats were respected and associated with the goddess Bastet, although not specifically because they were black. During the Middle Ages in Europe, black cats became associated with witchcraft and superstition, leading to harmful myths that unfortunately continued for centuries. In other cultures, however, black cats were considered symbols of good luck, prosperity, and protection.

The Bombay was specifically developed in the United States in the 1950s to create a cat with the appearance of a miniature black panther. Other black-coated breeds, such as the Maine C**n and British Shorthair, developed their own histories over much longer periods.

Today, black cats are beloved for their striking appearance, affectionate personalities, and wide variety of breeds. Despite centuries of superstition, they are no different from other cats in personality or behavior and make wonderful companions.

Shown here is a black Bombay cat.

09/08/2026

Next in our series of cat breed history: The Orange Cat

Orange cats, often called ginger or marmalade cats, are known for their beautiful coats ranging from pale cream and golden yellow to deep orange-red. They can have different patterns, including tabby stripes, spots, or swirls. Orange coloring is not a specific breed—it is a color pattern that can occur in many breeds and mixed-breed cats. Orange cats have existed for centuries and can be found throughout the world. Their orange coloring comes from a genetic trait that produces the orange pigment pheomelanin. Because the gene responsible for orange coloring is carried on the X chromosome, most orange cats are male, although female orange cats are common as well. Orange tabbies have appeared in many cultures and have become especially popular because of their friendly reputations, distinctive appearance, and playful personalities. Today, orange cats remain among the most recognizable and beloved cats.

09/07/2026

Next in our series of cat breed history:

The Tortoiseshell cat, often called a “tortie,” is known for its beautiful coat of black, orange, red, and sometimes cream or gold patches. Like calico cats, tortoiseshell is a color pattern rather than a specific breed, so torties can be found in many different cat breeds. Tortoiseshell cats have been around for centuries and have been found in many parts of the world. Their unique coloring comes from genetics, with the genes for orange and black coloring carried on the X chromosome. Because of this, most tortoiseshell cats are female, although rare male torties do occur. Throughout history, tortoiseshell cats have been associated with good luck, protection, and prosperity in several cultures.

09/06/2026

Next in our series of cat breed history:

The Calico cat is known for its beautiful coat of white, orange, and black patches. Calico is not a specific breed but a color pattern that can appear in many breeds. Calico cats have a fascinating history, with their coloring developing from genetics and becoming common in cats around the world. Because the genes for orange and black coloring are linked to the X chromosome, almost all calico cats are female. Calico cats are often admired for their unique appearance and are sometimes considered symbols of good luck and prosperity in different cultures.

09/05/2026

Next up in our series of cat breed history is the Maine C**n Cat:

The Maine C**n is one of the largest and most popular domestic cat breeds, known for its long, fluffy coat, large size, tufted ears, and bushy tail. Originating in Maine, USA, it is often called the “gentle giant” because of its friendly, affectionate, and easygoing personality. Maine C**ns are intelligent, playful, and generally enjoy spending time with people.

09/04/2026

Our friends at Garden State Pet Center are having a Labor Day Sale! Check them out! www.gardenstatepetcenter.com

09/04/2026

Our new series on the history of cat breeds. Today's featured cat is the Manx.

The Manx cat originated on the Isle of Man, an island in the Irish Sea. Its exact origins are unknown, but the breed is believed to have developed from domestic cats carrying a natural genetic mutation that caused shortened or missing tails. Because the island was isolated, this trait became common over generations. The Manx became well known for its tailless appearance, strong hind legs, rounded body, and playful personality. Today, it is recognized as one of the world's oldest and most distinctive cat breeds.