On September 4th, 2014, An Post issued four new stamps in tribute of the most popular pets in the world, cats.
More people keep cats as pets than any other animal, including dogs. They are the most popular pets in the world not just because they provide companionship but also because of their ability to hunt and control household pests and vermin.
The domestic cat is very similar in anatomy to other, bigger, wild cats (felids): They are carnivorous and have strong, flexible bodies, quick reflexes, sharp retractable claws, hunting instincts and teeth adapted to killing small prey.
One of the remarkable things about cats is that even though they are solitary hunters they are also very social. They readily bond with humans and other pets such as dogs. Many people breed and show pedigree cats. They have a rapid breeding rate and breeding cats as a hobby is called “cat fancy”. Here in Ireland, The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy of Ireland registers and promotes the ethical breeding and showing of pedigree cats and supports general cat welfare.
The more popular cat breeds include; the Persian which has long hair and a round face. The Maine Coon (also known as American Longhair) – which is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America. The Burmese is known as a very friendly cat with short, silky hair. Finally, the British Short Hair which is the most popular registered breed in the UK and has a really soft coat and big eyes.
The stamps were designed by Red & Grey Design and feature photographs of the Persian, the Maine Coon, the Burmese and the British Short Hair cat, all of which are very popular breeds with Irish cat enthusiasts.
Source: Ireland Post
Released September 21, 2014
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