Pet Wiki

American Ringtail

Felis catus

Also called Ringtailed Sing-a-Ling, Ringtail cat

Rare breedShort profile

From Northern California, United States, starting with a cat named Solomon in 19981

At a glance the quick version

Striking curled tail
Agile, sure-footed climber
Good sense of balance
2

Coat and looks how to spot one

curled tail

The breed's calling card is a muscular, fully mobile tail that curls up over the back like a husky's or loops to one side. The body is described as muscular and fairly slender, with hind legs a little longer than the front, which helps make these cats agile climbers with good balance.21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Enjoys climbing, so cat trees and shelves suit it well.2

The story where it all began

The breed began in 1998 with Solomon, a Californian cat whose tail curled over his back. Breeder Susan Manley noticed the same trait among free-roaming cats in northern California and began a breeding programme, crossing curled-tail cats with Ragdolls and American Shorthairs. It remains a small, experimental breed.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its original registration name was the rather musical Ringtailed Sing-a-Ling.2

  2. 2

    Unlike some kinked-tail cats, the Ringtail's tail bones are not fused, so the tail keeps its full range of movement.2

  3. 3

    Pig, the cat in the DreamWorks film Home, has a curly tail that has led people to link her to this breed, though that is unconfirmed.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was originally called 'Ringtail Sing-a-Ling' because the cats make small trilling greeting sounds (the 'sing-a-ling' part) and carry their tails in a ring shape. The name was later changed to 'American Ringtail.'3

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

SolomonRingletCaliWhirlyTasselSierraEchoCopperTwirlJuniperZingPixie

A day in the life told by an American Ringtail

I start my day by leaping onto the tallest cat tree, watching the sun paint the room gold. After a quick stretch, I chase a feather toy until I flop into my cozy basket. Midday, I perch by the window, chirping at squirrels. When my humans come home, I greet them with a soft trill and curl up nearby. Evening means a gentle game of fetch with a crinkle ball, then I settle on the sofa, purring as the day winds down.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major registries
An experimental breed not listed by the major cat registries1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an American Ringtail. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
  4. Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
  5. Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
  6. Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
  • Extra water as needed

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
  4. Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
  8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

  • 145g tuna chunks in spring water
  • 120g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • 1 egg

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
  2. Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my American Ringtail, and at what times?

Feeding schedules vary by age and lifestyle, so ask your vet for a plan tailored to your cat. Most adult cats do well with two meals a day, morning and evening. Always provide fresh water and follow the food label's guidelines.

What should an American Ringtail eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality cat food that meets nutritional standards. Dangerous foods include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol, as noted by the ASPCA. Avoid raw meat, bones, and dairy, and always check with your vet for specific concerns.4

Does an American Ringtail need baths?

Baths are rarely needed for this breed; only bathe if your cat is very dirty or sticky. The ASPCA suggests bathing only when necessary, as cats groom themselves well. Use a cat-safe shampoo if you do bathe.5

How often does an American Ringtail need brushing?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing once a week, which suits this breed's short coat. The ASPCA recommends brushing short-haired cats once or twice a week to remove loose fur and reduce shedding. Regular brushing also keeps their coat healthy and shiny.25 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an American Ringtail's claws, and how often?

Trim claws every three weeks according to Furry Diary's plan, or every ten days to two weeks as the ASPCA advises. Start with one or two claws per session to build trust. Use cat nail clippers and avoid the quick (pink area) to prevent bleeding.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does an American Ringtail need?

This active breed enjoys climbing and daily play, as noted in Furry Diary's plan. Provide cat trees, shelves, and interactive toys to satisfy their agility and balance. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of play each day to keep them happy and healthy.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an American Ringtail's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, or at least every two days as Furry Diary suggests, using a cat-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly for dirt or redness and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Regular vet check-ups help catch any issues early. Pet Wiki plan

How long does an American Ringtail live?

Lifespan varies, but with good care, many cats live 12-15 years or more. Senior years usually start around age 11, so regular vet visits become even more important then. Provide a healthy diet and plenty of love for a long, happy life. Pet Wiki plan

Is an American Ringtail good with children and other pets?

This breed is generally friendly and adaptable, but individual temperament varies. Supervise interactions with young children and introduce other pets slowly. With proper socialization, they often get along well with respectful kids and other animals.

Can an American Ringtail be left alone?

They can handle some alone time, but they enjoy company and play. Provide climbing structures and toys to keep them entertained while you're away. For longer absences, consider a pet sitter or another cat companion.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. American Ringtail - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, recognition, history, fun facts
  2. Cat Breeds A - Messybeast messybeast.comused for tail and body description, other name, fun facts
  3. dogbreedinfo.com dogbreedinfo.com
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.