awesome roz! lets see, i've scraped up 54 cat breeds (not including the longhair vs shorthair and wedgehead vs applehead differences) and have completed (minus pictures) about ten profiles. i've got dibs on the exotics, since i breed them, but you're welcome to steal a few profiles as well. just go to the following link and fill in the blanks or i can ask jade if i can send you the link to post the threads directly:
http://www.rare-breed-cattery.com/br...ile_survey.htm
i'll make sure you get credit for the writing if you don't want to post, but i'm sure jade won't mind if you want to help directly.
here's an example of the abyssinian profile i'm currently working on:
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Country of Origin:
Clouded in mystery. History points to Ethiopia, while genetic research points to the coast of the Indian Ocean and parts of Southeast Asia.
Breed History:
in progress...
Life Span:
9-15 years; some living though their early 20's
Average Height:
Not available
Average Weight:
Not available
Coat Length(s):
Medium
Coat Texture(s):
Fine Texture/Soft and Silky
Coat Color(s):
Ruddy, Red, Blue and Fawn
Average Litter Size:
3-4 kittens per litter
Activity Level:
High
Vocal Abilities:
Quiet; Can and does communicate in other ways
Temperament:
Abyssinians are very active cats that love people and enjoy the company of other cats. While not described as a lap cat, Abyssinians are known to follow their owners from room to room while attempting to engage in their owner's chores and tasks. Seen as highly intelligent, Abyssinians have been known to understand concepts such as the relationship between keys and locks, and are described as using their paws in a way much like humans use their hands. When looking for a lost Abyssinian, the best place to look is up because Abyssinians love high places. They also have a unique love for water and have been known to play in faucets and kitchen sinks!
Suitable Living Environment(s):
Owners of Abyssinians must be aware that this breed is very attached to it's family and will not do well in a home where the owner is constantly away. Abyssinians do not do well in confined areas, and prefer to have plenty of space to climb, jump and run.
Is This Breed Adaptable to Children or Multi-Person Homes?
Yes. Abyssinians enjoy human companionship of all ages.
Is This Breed Adaptable to Other Animals or Pets?
Yes. Abyssinians can become very attached to dogs.
Is This Cat Adaptable to Other Cats?
Male - Yes ; Female - No
Care and Exercise:
Grooming an Abyssinian is relatively easy. Occasionally brush the coat, and use a rubber mitt to remove dead hair when shedding occurs. The coat can be polished with a damp chamois leather to bring out the natural shine. Abyssinians also require regular tooth brushing due to a moderately high susceptibility to gingivitis.
Health Issues:
Gingivitis, Renal Amyloidosis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (RPA), Neurological Storage Disease, Psychogenic Alopecia
Other Important Information:
Abyssinians like to help and are very curious, which can be misinterpreted as mischief.
Links to More Abyssinian Info:
Click Here to View the CFA Abyssinian Breed Standards:
http://www.cfa.org/breeds/standards/abyssinian.html
Click Here to View the TICA Abyssinian Breed Standards:
http://www.tica.org/abbrdgrpstd063003.pdf
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let me know what you're up to! i can handle the cats, but probably will have difficulty with the dogs because i'm no dog expert. however, if you want to help but dogs just aren't your thing, i'm ok with sharing the cat profiles.
amber