Chinese Li Hua
The unofficial cat of China, the Li Hua (pronounced “lee-wah”) is thought to be one of the earliest known domestic cats. The Chinese Li Hua cat is also known as China Li Hua, Dragon Li, Li Hua, Lu Hua Mao, Li Hua Mau, and Li Mao. The Li Hua typically weighs between 9 and 12 pounds.
Based on their mention in old books, they have probably existed throughout China for centuries, but it is only recently that they have been developed as a breed. This is a natural breed, meaning it was not developed through crosses of other breeds. This kitty is smart, loyal and lively, the Li Hua is gentle with people but has a reputation as a talented hunter of rats and other vermin. His retrieval skills extend beyond rodents.
Some cat breeds are reputed smarter than others. But all cats, if deprived the mental stimulation they need, will make their own busy work. Butler & Milk has a wonderful range of interactive cat toys that are a good way to give your cat a brain workout and keep those paws out of mischief.
Love learning about cats? Check out the Butler & Milk Blog, Cat Breeds category at https://www.butlerandmilk.com/butlerandmilkblog for pictures and information on cat breeds that you love.
Care
Home environment - As with most cats, they can be sociable when introduced to an environment that is peaceful, stimulating and where they feel safe. This cat can thrive in a household with children who can treat this delicate beauty politely and respectfully. Always introduce any pets, even other cats, slowly and in a controlled setting.
Entertaining – A good butler knows how to entertain! To keep your cat entertained and to help them stay fit and active, provide various play stations and treats. Cats love playtime with their owners which helps them to socialize well and thwarts boredom and troublesome behaviors.
Hair – The Chinese Li Hua’s short, smooth coat is simple to groom with weekly brushing or combing to remove dead hairs would be fine. A bath is rarely necessary. Shedding is to be expected as with any cat however, combing or brushing can be done maybe twice a week to reduce furniture coverage.
Teeth – The use of small finger toothbrushes for weekly clean can help keep your cat’s teeth and gums healthy and may prevent periodontal disease. Careful with your fingers, cats have impressive jaw strength and can give quite a finger crushing bite! Annual checks at the vets will also pick up on anything that might need professional attention.
Nails – Now, be careful with this one. Cat’s nails are live so there is the potential to cause pain especially if the nail is dark and you cannot see clearly to differentiate live areas from ‘safe’ areas to clip. Probably best to schedule a visit to your vets or local shelter where there will be someone trained to carry out this procedure. I clipped my cat Tiny’s nail tips while she sat in the sink about once a fortnight. She would only allow me to clip her front ones and would happily bite and crunch her back paw nails.
Clean – You can use a soft cloth and wipe the eye area. Use a separate area of the cloth for each eye so that you don’t spread any infection. Gently wipe out ears, warm water is fine. Never poke or use cotton buds (Q-tips) inside the ears.
Litter Box – Keep the trays meticulously clean and have more than one (if possible). Remember to keep trays away from food areas.
Roam or not to roam – It’s a good idea to keep your lovely inside, apart from attacks from other cats or dogs or traffic dangers, such a beauty might be stolen. However, if you’re going to allow roaming, remember to microchip and use a collar with an ID tag.
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