Singapura Cat Breed Information

Group

Short Haired

Weight

15-20 cm

Length

1.8-2.7 kg

Lifespan

9-15 years

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About the Singapura Cat

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

Despite being the tiniest cat in the world, the adorable Singapura sure has a big personality!

This micro-sized kitty thrives off being in the limelight and in the middle of the action.

If you want to find out more about this fascinating cat breed, this guide contains everything you need to know and more!

What Is the History & Origin of the Singapura Cat?

The Singapura’s history remains to be a mysterious and controversial one.

According to the original story, in the mid-1970s, two Americans named Hal and Tommy Meadow found three kittens of this breed roaming the streets of Singapore, so they decided to take them back to the US. And in 1982, The American Cat Fanciers Association recognised the Singapura cat as an official breed.

Singapore later decided to embrace this beautiful cat as a cultural symbol and a tourist mascot; however, during research about the Singapura’s heritage, it came to light that there it’s possible this tiny kitty was bred intentionally for its size and appearance.

Many people believe that Singapuras are a cross between Abyssinian and Burmese cats.

After much controversy and confusion, breed registration organisations like the International Cat Association chose to keep the Singapura as a ‘natural breed’, and Singapore used this kitty as its mascot for promoting tourism.

What Is a Singapura Cat Breed?

Singapuras are undoubtedly the smallest of all small domesticated cat breeds in the world. These cute cats only reach their full size of just 1.8 – 2.7kg when they are about two years old.

Don’t be fooled by this cat’s petite build, they love being the centre of attention wherever they go, and they truly are little balls of energy – being extremely playful and active cats.

Who Is a Singapura Cat Best For?

This highly intelligent and energetic cat will suit an owner who can match their physical and mental stimulation needs.

Above all, the Singapura thrives off getting plenty of affection, and they tend to form very strong bonds with their human family.

If you’re considering getting a Singapura, be prepared to have your furry companion in your face pretty much constantly – whether that’s following your every move around the house or getting comfortable on your shoulders.

While this cat is an excellent fit for an active family, they don’t do well with loud noises. Noisy dogs, small children, or living in an urban neighbourhood could cause them distress.

If you have other household animals or young children, you will need to teach them how to handle and play with this tiny-framed Singapura cat in a gentle way.

This kitty’s voice certainly matches its huge personality, so if you live in a quiet apartment block, this loud cat might disturb the neighbours with its (cute but) persistent meowing!

What Does a Singapura Cat Look Like?

These charming, tiny domestic cats have large ears and big, round eyes – either hazel, green or yellow-coloured.

Their bodies are muscular and stocky, with short, thick necks, strong legs, and a slender, short tail with a dark tip.

Coat

Singapura’s have a short, fine coat – silky in texture.

Colours

According to the Cat Fanciers Association, pure Singapura’s only come in one coat colour, called sepia agouti, described as “dark brown ticking, on a warm old ivory ground colour”.

Essentially, it’s just a fancy term for a ticked tabby pattern, with light, cream-coloured fur covered with dark brown spots.

Patterns

These short-haired cats typically have darkly tipped tails, with lighter-coloured fur on their chests, stomachs, and muzzles.

Singapura Cat Grooming & Shedding

These felines are considered relatively low maintenance, as their coats shed lightly and require very little grooming. All they need is a brush once every week or two, regular nail trimming, and occasional ear cleaning.

Singapura’s do an excellent job of keeping themselves clean.

How Do Singapura Cats Behave? A Look at Their Temperament and Personality

If you’re looking for a needy cat with seemingly limitless energy and a love for playing that never grows out of the “kitten phase”, the Singapura is just that.

This cat has a shining extroverted personality, being extremely curious, intelligent, frisky, and thriving off attention from their human companions.

Despite being small cats, they are built athletically, which allows them to climb and explore new environments when they aren’t by your side. They are always ready to play, and they even enjoy being taken out on a leash for a walk in the park!

Living Needs

Singapura’s tend to fit into any household environment, as long as it’s not too noisy, as they easily get startled.

These active little kitties feel most comfortable perched up on high shelves and ledges around the house, where they can easily survey their territory. You’ll need to make sure your furry friend has plenty of safe climbing options to avoid any risks of injuries.

When the Singapura isn’t scaling your cabinets, leaping to high places or even taking a ride on your neck, they will thoroughly enjoy playing with interactive cat toys that will challenge their mental and physical skills.

Lastly, this cat breed doesn’t do well being left alone for long periods of time. Although they won’t be destructive, their mood will be affected by a lack of interaction as they are very social with their pet parents.

What Are Common Habits and Activity Levels of Singapura Cats?

Habits

Besides demanding almost-constant love and attention from their owners, these highly curious and active kitties love to explore and climb.

Activity level

Being as active as they are, Singapuras need at least 15 to 20 minutes of playtime every day to stay healthy and fit.

Although they do tend to create their own forms of exercise, they really enjoy interactive activities with the family and playing with interactive toys.

Vocalness

Don’t be surprised by this little cat’s loud meow! Singapura’s tend to be extremely talkative, and often for no reason at all.

Their neediness might take some getting used to, but this lively little cat is sure to win your heart!

What Is the Weight, Height, and Size of a Singapura Cat?

Height

A fully grown Singapura is only around 15 cm to 20 cm tall.

Weight

This tiny kitty weighs as little as 1.8kg and up 2.7kg on average.

Size

The Singapura is much smaller than ‘normal-sized cats’. In fact, it’s the smallest cat breed in the world.

Are Singapura Cats Easy to Train?

Surprisingly, Singapuras are a pleasure to train, as they’re always eager for a challenge!

Cats of this breed are generally smart, attentive and focused, plus they really enjoy receiving attention from their favourite humans!

Owners can stimulate their furry friends by teaching them a variety of tricks and commands, as well as training them to walk on a leash.

Does the Singapura Cat Have Any Common Health Issues?

Pedigreed cats like the Singapura usually have varying cases of genetic health problems.

In general, this breed is relatively healthy, but one issue that has recently been discovered is their tendency toward developing pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD). This genetic disease is due to a deficiency of the enzyme responsible for red blood cell energy metabolism, which leads to hemolytic anemia.

On the bright side, Singapuras with PKD can still live a happy, normal life!

There is a test available to determine if a cat is a carrier of the disease.

What Is the Lifespan of a Singapura Cat?

On average, Singapuras have a lifespan of about 9 to 15 years.

How Much Does a Singapura Cat Need to Be Fed?

When it comes to feeding your kitty, you must give them high-quality food to meet all of their nutrient, vitamin, and mineral requirements for optimal health.

You’ll want to make sure their cat food’s main ingredient is meat since cats are strictly carnivores.

It’s always in your best interest to seek veterinary advice on the best diet for your four-legged friend.

How Much Can You Expect to Pay for a Singapura Cat in Australia?

Singapuras are considered a rare breed, which means you can expect to pay a pretty penny to add one to your family.

A Singapura kitten from a reputable breeder can cost you anywhere up to $2,000 and more, depending on pedigree.

Singapura Cat FAQs

Can a Singapura cat be left alone?

This cat breed doesn’t do well being left alone regularly. Singapuras are people pleasers, and they thrive off being social and receiving a whole lot of attention.

If you tend to work a nine-to-five, your Singapura will need other pets in the house to keep them company while you’re out.

Are Singapura cats rare?

The Singapura cat is considered to be a relatively rare breed.

Their average litter size is between 2 and 3 kittens, and only Singapura to Singapura mating is allowed.

Due to them being rare, there will often be a long waiting list for obtaining a Singapura kitten – but it’s absolutely well worth the wait!

Are Singapura cats lap cats?

The Singapura loves being a lap cat, and they can be amazing bedwarmers and cuddle buddies on cold winter nights!

Although these cats are highly active, they can also be great of great comfort when you’re feeling under the weather and need a calming companion.

Are Singapura cats hypoallergenic?

Despite this breed not shedding excessively, they aren’t considered to be hypoallergenic.

Their short cat hair may be easier to care for, but it will still end up around your house and on the furniture, which would certainly trigger a person suffering from cat allergies.