The Sokoke cat breed is often characterized by its long legs, short, coarse fur, and tabby coat; however, variations in appearance have occurred due to selective breeding. Like a wildcat, a Sokoke cat’s back legs are longer than its forelegs.
This cat breed was named after the Arabuko Sokoke National Forest, where its first and original seedlings were reared. The name ‘Khadzonzos’ was the original name of the Sokoke breed of cat. The natives of the area, the Giriama tribe, who had been familiar with the feline for a significant amount of time, were the ones who gave it its name.
Due to their low resilience to typical New World cat ailments, the Sokoke cat is best brought up in a restricted and controlled environment. the Sokoke cat is a remarkably energetic species that loves to climb.
They may be rather talkative, both with their human caretakers and the other cats in the household. Early on, it was believed that the Sokoke cat was a cross between a wildcat and a housecat; the cat is frequently referred to as a Sokoke hybrid.
However, they aren’t precisely a hybrid species but a hard-to-come-by domestic cat breed from the Sokoke region. Nevertheless, the resemblance between this cat and a wildcat is immediately apparent. They are medium-sized cats with slender, muscular, athletic bodies that make them great runners and jumps but smaller than their wild cousins. In the following lines, we will go into elaborate details on this particular cat variety for anyone interested in learning more about them or maybe even adopting one.
8 Sokoke Cat Pros:
1. They are active
Animal enthusiasts can’t get enough of these energetic, wise, and family-focused cats, despite the Sokoke’s mysterious presence in the feline fancy. They are lively, playful cats. These cats have good swimming abilities and some like fishing. Sokoke is a companion animal that likes both humans and other feline companies.
A bored Sokoke isn’t a happy Sokoke, so some of them enjoy going for walks on a lead and will get along well with other pets on the way as long as they are well-socialized and cat-friendly.
2. Easy to clean
Because the Sokokes have short hair, they tend to shed less than other cat breeds, and their coats may be combed once a week with a gentle brush. As a result, when it comes to grooming, they require little upkeep. Usually, one thorough brushing each week is adequate. In addition, they can stay active and healthy by having their nails cut, cleaning their ears for mites and infections, and routinely brushing their teeth. If these precautions are followed correctly, you should occasionally anticipate your Sokoke cat’s coat to be lustrous.
3. They are Vocal cats
The Sokoke cats are very talkative kittens who enjoy conversing with their family and other cats. Vocal cats may help their breeders to be able to know how they feel, and further help them. Also, since they are vocal breeds, it will be easier for the pet parents to understand what their pets are trying to communicate to them.
When they scowl, purr, or make other vocal sounds, instead of having their breeders rack their brains and wonder what could be wrong with them, they will be able to decipher when a strange behavior sets in.
4. They are friendly
Don’t be put off by the Sokoke cat’s small but intimidating appearance; this sweet-natured species is lovely for families, even those with young children. They are usually the first to welcome outsiders with open arms. The Sokoke cat is ideally adapted to life in the home and is a great companion pet when introduced to youngsters and other respectful house pets gradually with enough energy to go around everybody in the house.
5. They are independent
If you do not have much time for pets, you could worry less about breeding the Sokoke cat. They make it possible for one to have a full-time job and yet be able to have them as pets. Sokoke is known to be taking care of themselves for centuries and, although maintaining their freedom, are accustomed to living like house cats.
The Sokoke has a lot of energy and can exercise themselves physically quite a bit. But make sure they have engaging toys, cat shelves, and a cat tree since they like loitering in high locations,
6. They are highly intelligent
Because of their high intelligence and natural curiosity, Sokoke cats are likely to be quite interested in everything going on around them. If you wish to adopt a Sokoke, be ready to provide them with toys that will help to stretch and exercise their minds so they can remain active. They also want to discover new activities and interests.
The Sokoke is able to sense its owner’s feelings and will respond in any circumstance with love, devotion, and affection. Teaching Sokokes a variety of tricks is simple and less stressful.
7. They are adventurous
For people that love to exploit different kinds of cats and their personalities, the Sokoke cats may be perfect for you and may make you want to stop your search for exciting adventures as they have all in them to offer. There are so many things to discover in the Sokoke cat, and you are assured experiences that will last for a long time with this cat breed.
They are as interested in their breeders’ life and find interest in exploring amazing journeys with them with their outstanding personalities. So when taking a Sokoke home, you should be prepared for their unique view on life.
8. They are attractive
The Sokoke has a distinctive look with its high cheekbones and pale green or amber eyes. These stunning cats have a few distinguishing characteristics that set them apart from the ordinary cat population, such as the ‘wild’ appearance of their coats and markings. This is largely attributable to their forest-dwelling origin. The Sokoke’s coat may be decorated with a variety of designs and forms and is mostly brown in color with distinct tabby markings.
8 Sokoke Cat Cons:
1. Vulnerable to diseases
Sokoke cats are less immune to common illnesses that strike domestic cats than most other cats, making them more susceptible to contagious infections. Additionally, this breed has a history of ear infections. So if you own a Sokoke cat or are looking to adopt one, you should have this at the back of your mind and ensure you periodically check for wax buildup and excess dirt in their ears.
Often clean their ears and call your veterinarian as soon as you notice anything out of the ordinary. Maintaining yearly doctor checkups and making sure your Sokoke cat obtains their necessary vaccines could help prevent health conditions and boost its immune system.
2. They are expensive
Sokoke cats are extremely difficult to get because of their rarity, and they have to wait for a long time while paying a lot of money. One of the most expensive cat breeds is the Sokoke. If you get to see one, you should expect to spend between $500 and $2,000. However, given their fun-loving personalities, they are undoubtedly worth every cent.
3. They’re not lapping cats
For people that may want a lap cat kind of feline, this breed may be out of the options for you as they do not smile at being cuddled, or at least not for too long. Instead, the Sokoke cats want to run around the house, play games, and chase mice. They are energy-filled felines that will spend most of their time exploiting their environment and looking for new hobbies to share their energy with them rather than waiting to be caressed.
4. They are rare
Due to the Sokoke cats restricted breeding and very low level of recognition, they are presently regarded as one of the rarest domestic cat breeds in the world and are practically almost extinct. Because of the unusual ring patterns on their sides, sokokes were discovered in Kenya’s coastal region as a naturally occurring native breed in the broader Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Preserve area. The Sokoke cat breed is considered to be the rarest in the UK by the Cat Fanciers Association.
5. Low tolerance to cold areas
Generally speaking, cats with short coats, such as the short-haired Asian group of cats, do not do well in extremely cold temperatures for long periods. The Sokoke cat is best suited for mild climates, such as those found in Japan, where the average annual temperature is 50.6 degrees Fahrenheit (13.9 degrees Celsius), so residents of extremely cold regions may have trouble caring for the breed. However, since Sokokes are mostly indoor cats and if you live in a cold area but are determined to adopt one, so long as you can assure warmth in your home, you probably are fine bringing one home.
6. Prone to violent mischief
The fact that cats of the Sokoke breed are well-known for being energetic and lively pets that form deep bonds with their owners. They are unable to withstand being alone and suffer from the effects of separation. It is recommended to leave them alone only during the day and throughout the week, even though they do well as independent pets; however, you could obtain a breeder who could care after them while you are gone for lengthy periods of time.
7. Prone to violent mischief
When the Sokoke cat perceives that he is in danger, he will not think twice about using his claws and fangs to defend himself. Cats of this species frequently exhibit strong territorial tendencies. However, it is nearly in the nature of all cats to have that reaction attitude when they perceive danger heading their way. Cats are protective creatures and probably don’t care whether they would cause harm to their assailants. This is because it is almost in the nature of cats to have that reflex attitude.
8. They usually will go to high locations
If you’ve been gone for a while and you arrive home to discover no trace of your Sokoke cat, you should fix your gaze on the upper area; these cats have a preference for high areas and are extremely likely to have slept off on top of a cabinet while you were gone. If you look up, you might be able to spot your cat. They are a type of cat packed with energy; thus, they don’t mind expending some energy to explore climbing.
Final Thoughts
The Sokoke cats may have the appearance of wild cats, but in reality, they are domesticated by nature and are natural breeds. And also, there has been considerable debate over whether or not this feline is a member of the domestic cat species or the offspring of a wild cat that has become tamed. However, recent scientific studies conducted on this region using DNA swabs have led researchers to conclude that the Sokoke is a member of the Asian Group of domestic cats and has genetic origins in the Arabian Wildcat.
However, the pros and cons of the Sokoke breed have been discussed. It is ultimately up to you to decide whether you can care for one as a pet, having gone through the pros and cons. So, if you’re considering getting a Sokoke Forest Cat, think again. Well, you don’t want a Sokoke if you desire a subdued, dignified cat who spends its days sleeping. They are not lap cats and don’t want to be held.
The Sokoke Forest Cat, on the other hand, is for you if you’re searching for a loving, lively, almost canine-like cat that likes to engage and can converse with you for hours on end. In addition, their activity levels may sometimes be off the charts, which can be a little challenging to manage for novices and more experienced fanciers. On the other hand, if you already have expertise in caring for cats and are seeking to “upgrade” to a breed that is considerably more difficult to maintain, then this breed could be the right choice.
Further Reading
