Singapura

Like every breed, the Singapura is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other cats

  Usually enjoys the company of other cats.

• Dogs

  Often gets on with a cat-friendly dog.

• Indoors and outdoors

  Benefits from some safe outdoor space.

• Being left alone

  Prefers company and is best not left alone for long.

• First-time owners

  Some cat experience helps.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own cat’s health.

• Low genetic diversity

  A 2007 DNA study found the Singapura had the least genetic diversity of the 22 breeds studied. In 2013 the GCCF Singapura Breed Advisory Committee approved an outcrossing programme to address this.

• Pyruvate kinase deficiency

  An inherited condition causing a form of anaemia, which can lead to lethargy, weakness and weight loss. A DNA test is available, and the GCCF advises checking that a kitten's parents have been tested.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

  An inherited disorder in which part of the eye degenerates, which can lead to blindness. A DNA test is available.

• Uterine inertia

  Female Singapuras may be prone to uterine inertia during birth, which can mean a caesarean section is needed. Litters are usually small, of two or three kittens.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Singapura home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Kittens should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, cats must be microchipped and registered by 20 weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a kitten was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Singapura home, and looking after one well. Kitten prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, litter, scratching posts and toys, and a cattery or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the cat’s life, typically 9–15 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Singapura suits your life, take the same care choosing where your cat comes from. Meet the kitten in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Singapuras do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the cat. An adult cat arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the cat’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a cat once, well.