There are many variations in the fur types of felines today—some as a natural product of evolution, while others are results of selective breeding. The fur type is a distinct feature of specific breeds, and is determined by the specific combination of awn, down, and guard hairs.

Guard hairs (primary hairs) are the longest and most visible part of a cat’s hair coat. Down are the soft and short hairs that provide insulation to the body. Some breeds of cats lack down hair. Awn hairs are bristly hair that are slightly longer in length; together with the down hair, makes up the secondary hairs.

The coat length of long-haired cats usually varies depending on the breed and season of the year.  The density of the hair coat is due in part to the down hair which offers the best body insulation. On the other hand, the appearance and texture of the coats of short-haired cats vary considerably.

Be sure to have your cat checked by a Greenwood veterinarian. Check out this website for more information.