Pongere cats are playful, devoted, and extremely vocal species of domestic house cat. Known for their curiosity, intelligence, and ease of training, the Pongere is a loyal breed with a deep affection for people. Their meows seem definite attempts to communicate, and they look you directly in the eye and seem to answer when spoken to. They are an indigenous species to Iokeihiko and the only tailless breed to come from the island.
History
Appearance and Temperament
Upkeep and Health
History
The Pongere existed for many centuries on Iokeihiko and was first domesticated by inhabitants there. Geneticists believe that the Pongere's taillessness is the result of a spontaneous mutation domestic cat population. The Pongere's tail, or lack thereof, is governed by a dominant gene, while most other short-tailed breed have tails governed by recessive genes. Given Iokeihiko's closed environment and small gene pool, the dominant gene easily passed from one generation to the next. The Pongere became a well-established and popular breed, supported by an enthusiastic group of Pongere owners. They were transported on ships by humans and Deerless more often than others, such as the Hwoxin's preference of Axxie Cats. The Pongere journeyed to Erebus much later than Marcwith, but are a popular breed in both places. Pongere cats were at first transported from Iokeihiko but as imports from the island became regulated the supply waned. Today, Pongere cats are in great demand because of their rarity, but pets can be found at adoption organizations fairly easily.
Appearance and Temperament
The Pongere has paws unlike most other felid species. They are similar in shape to a weasel or ferret paw with extended toes. These toes number five and the outer digits are offset from the middle three, giving them the look of hands. These digits are remarkable flexible, enabling Pongere to grasp objects and manipulate items with reasonable strength and dexterity. The body of the species is generally stout with a back that gently slopes upward from shoulders to tail. With well-rounded chest and firm hips its boning is medium, without undue bulk despite firmly developed muscular strength. The head is a modified wedge with rounded contours, in proportion with body, with high and defined cheekbones and a firm chin in line with a medium-length muzzle. Like many indigenous Iokeihiko species, the ears of the Pongere are large in proportion to the head at 45 degree angles with dramatic flare from base to tip. Their eyes are Walnut shaped; spaced rather wide apart giving an open and alert expression, and at a slight angle toward base of ears. Although upper and lower forelegs equal in length they are longer than many cats, hidden under layers of thick fur. Fur texture is flowing and silky with a lack of undercoat.
The Pongere is an intelligent capable cat that has sometimes been used as a household guardian because of its incredible alertness. Because of their size and energy, the Pongere is also a loyal and adventurous companion. The breed likes to be mentally challenged and is a gifted pupil in obedience training and, according to recent studies, problem-solving. They are generally reserved with strangers and can be assertive with other Pongere, although not other household pets. Because of they can be timid among groups, they are a more popular companion for people without young children.
Upkeep and Health
Although an energetic and active cat, the exercise needs of the Pongere can be met with vigorous indoor games or romps in the yard, or with short walks on leash. They have no major health concerns when fed and exercised properly, generally living around 14-16 years.
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