Pet Wiki

Kanaani

Also called Canaani, Kanaani cat

Rare breedShort profile

From Israel, developed in the 1990s by the artist Doris Pollatschek from crosses of local domestic cats with the African wildcat (Felis lybica).12

At a glance the quick version

Sizemedium
athletic and energetic
playful and affectionate
wild-looking good looks
13

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, close-lying, rather coarse ticked coat

A lean, long-legged and muscular cat with an elegant outline. The head is a broad triangle on a slender neck, with large upright ears (tufts are welcome) and big almond eyes that are green in adults. The short, fairly harsh coat is clearly ticked, so its spots or marbling stay visible.31

Coloursspotted or marbled (blotched) tabby on a beige to cinnamon groundblack, chocolate or cinnamon markings312

Personality what they are like

Lively, playful and loving, with an independent streak and a strong hunting drive inherited from its wild ancestors.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. An energetic, athletic cat that needs daily active play and climbing to burn off energy.1

The story where it all began

Doris Pollatschek began the breed in Israel in the 1990s by pairing domestic cats with African wildcats, aiming for a cat with a wild look. The WCF recognised it in 2008. In the 2020s a revival programme started in Israel using cats bred in Jerusalem.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was the first cat breed from Israel to be recognised by an international cat federation (WCF, 2008).1

  2. 2

    The WCF standard asks for green eyes in adult cats, with yellow-green tolerated.3

  3. 3

    Silver colour varieties are not allowed in the breed standard.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name derives from the land of Canaan, the ancient designation for the region encompassing present-day Israel and its neighboring territories, and the breed was developed to resemble the native wild steppe cat of that historic region.4

Name ideas for your new friend

DesertOnyxZivaSaharaRafiAmberStormNavaSphinxTamarKesemAriel

A day in the life told by a Kanaani

I wake up with a yawn and stretch my athletic body. The morning sun warms the floor, so I stalk a sunbeam, pouncing on it. After a quick snack, I climb my tall cat tree, then leap to a shelf. I love playing fetch with my crinkly ball. Later, I watch out the window, spotting a squirrel. I chatter with excitement. When my human sits down, I jump onto their lap for a snuggle, purring. In the afternoon, I chase a feather toy, racing around the room. I end the day curled up, feeling happy and loved.

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

Recognised by the official bits

WCF
Recognised in 2008 as the first national Israeli cat breed; since 2010 only kittens born after 1 January 2008 from Kanaani parents may be registered1
WCF
Breed standard KAN, updated 1 January 20103
TICA
Experimental registration only, no full breed status1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Kanaani. 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 Kanaani, and at what times?

Feed your Kanaani two to three small meals a day at consistent times, such as morning and evening. This matches its active metabolism and helps prevent overeating. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.

What should a Kanaani eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality cat food, wet or dry, that is rich in animal protein is best for your Kanaani. Dangerous foods include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol, as noted by the ASPCA. Always avoid raw meat, bones, and dairy.5

Does a Kanaani need baths?

Baths are rarely needed for a Kanaani, only if it gets very dirty or sticky. Its short, coarse coat stays clean with self-grooming. Over-bathing can dry out its skin.6

How often does a Kanaani need brushing?

Brush your Kanaani once a week to remove loose hair and keep its coat shiny. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. This also helps reduce hairballs.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Kanaani's claws, and how often?

Trim your Kanaani's claws every three weeks, as per Furry Diary's plan, or every ten days to two weeks if needed. Use cat nail clippers, trim only the clear tip, and stop if you see the pink quick. Start with one or two claws per session.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does a Kanaani need?

Your Kanaani needs daily active play and climbing to burn off its high energy. Aim for at least two 15-minute sessions of interactive play, like chasing a wand toy. This lively, athletic cat thrives on mental and physical stimulation.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Kanaani's teeth and ears?

Brush your Kanaani's teeth daily with a pet toothpaste, as Furry Diary suggests, to prevent dental issues. Check its ears weekly for dirt or redness, and gently clean with a vet-recommended solution. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear. Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Kanaani live?

A Kanaani typically lives 12 to 16 years with good care. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and a safe home help it reach a healthy old age. Senior years usually start around age 11. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Kanaani good with children and other pets?

Yes, a Kanaani can be good with children and other pets if properly socialized from kittenhood. Its lively, loving nature makes it a fun playmate, but its strong hunting drive means it may chase small animals. Supervise early interactions.1

Can a Kanaani be left alone?

A Kanaani can be left alone for a few hours, but not all day, as it is active and social. Provide climbing structures and puzzle toys to keep it entertained. Its independent streak helps, but daily play and attention are essential.1

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. Kanaani cat (Wikipedia) en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, history, recognition, temperament, fun facts
  2. List of cat breeds (Wikipedia) en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, type, colours
  3. WCF breed standard Kanaani (KAN), 2010 wcf.deused for WCF standard: body, coat, colours, eyes
  4. officialworldrecord.com officialworldrecord.com
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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