Singapura

The world’s tiniest cat, with enormous eyes

The Singapura is often called the smallest breed of domestic cat. It takes its name from the Malay word for Singapore, and has been linked with the city’s street cats, nicknamed “drain cats”. The modern breed was developed in the United States in the 1970s from cats brought from Singapore, and the full early history is debated.

It is tiny, curious and unmistakable.

Singapura at a glance

Origin: Singapore (developed in the USA)
Size: Small
Weight: Usually 2 to 3.5 kg
Lifespan: Often 11 to 15 years
Coat: Very short, fine and ticked
Colours: Sepia agouti (a warm ivory with brown ticking)

Personality scorecard

Energy: 4 out of 5
Affection: 4 out of 5
Chattiness: 2 out of 5
Grooming needed: 1 out of 5
Good with children: 4 out of 5
Good with other pets: 4 out of 5

Our own rough guide. Every cat is different.

What they look like

A small, muscular cat with very large eyes outlined in dark “eyeliner”, large ears and a short, blunt nose. The coat is a warm ivory ticked with brown, with a cream chest and belly, and the eyes can be hazel, green or gold. Adults weigh little more than a kitten of another breed.

Personality

Curious, playful and people-loving. Singapuras love to climb, investigate and be involved in everything, and many enjoy sitting on shoulders. They are usually quiet, and are good with children and other pets, though they can be fragile, so handle them gently.

Care and grooming

Little grooming is needed. They need play, high perches and company. Keep them warm, and keep meals measured, though they are small and rarely overweight.

Health to know about

Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK-def), a type of anaemia, and a problem called uterine inertia that can make giving birth difficult, have been reported. Ask breeders about DNA testing and the health of the parents.