Personality and Temperament
Also known as the Chinese Li Hua and nickname to the Chinese Fox Flower cat, the Dragon Li cat is an ancient purebred with a distinct wild appearance. Just like their wild ancestors, these cats are known for their independence and intelligence. At the same time, they are loyal to their families, with a playful streak a mile wide.
If you bring a Dragon Li cat into your family, you will be rewarded with plenty of fun and games. Unfortunately for those who prefer lap cats, this particular breed isn't at all fond of snuggling. In fact, these cats can become anxious when they aren't given time and space to themselves.
Dragon Li cats appreciate the outdoors and are outstanding hunters. They are at their happiest when allowed access to safely enclosed outdoor spaces such as catios, and when they are taught to walk on a leash from a young age.
It’s very important to note that these unique felines do not enjoy small, confining indoor spaces. While most cats are perfectly happy to share an apartment with an attentive human family, the Dragon Li cat needs a big house with lots of room to roam if it is kept completely indoors. Clearly, this cat requires special circumstances and isn't the best breed for everyone.
Care
Nutrition
Grooming
Exercise
Health
Although the Dragon Li cat has no special nutritional needs, it is vital to offer a high-quality diet with ample protein. These cats have big appetites, partly due to their preference for a highly active lifestyle.
Even though the Dragon Li cat breed has short hair, you may wish to give their coat a quick brushing once or twice per week simply to cut down on shedding and reduce the risk of hairballs. Teach your kitten to accept nail trims from a young age, and consider teaching them to accept toothbrushing as well.
The Dragon Li cat is exceptionally active. Even though you will not have to encourage these cats to play, they will appreciate interactive toys. Your Dragon Li cat will happily join in when you offer opportunities to chase a laser beam or go after the feathers on a teaser wand.
Since climbing is a favorite activity, treat your Dragon Li cat to a high-quality tower or tree that's built to withstand plenty of roughhousing. It'll save your furniture from excess wear and tear, and it will give your kitty a desirable vantage point from which to survey their domain. Be sure to offer multiple scratching posts as well.
Dragon Li cats are generally healthy; however, some do develop hip dysplasia.
History
The Dragon Li is one of the oldest known cat breeds. In fact, these amazing felines are direct descendants of the Chinese Mountain cat (Felis bieti), a wild cat that is native to China. The breed has ancient roots, dating at least to the Xiang Dynasty.
Despite its venerable background, the Chinese Li Hua cat breed was only recently standardized. The breed was first shown at an event hosted by the Chinese Cat Aficionado Association in 2004, and is a fairly recent addition to the Cat Fanciers Association's list of accepted cat breeds. CFA granted the breed official recognition in 2010.
Standardized, pedigreed representatives of the Dragon Li cat breed are still rare, making this feline one that can be difficult to obtain. It has attracted international interest.
Eyes
Legs & Paws
Tail
The Breed Standard
Body
Head
Ears
Coat
Color
FAQ
How much does a Dragon Li cat cost?
Dragon Li cats cost between $400-$1,000.
How big do Dragon Li cats get?
Dragon Li cats tend to be medium in size. A fully grown Dragon Li cat might weigh between 9-12 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 12"-14" inches tall.
How long do Dragon Li cats live?
The Average lifespan for Dragon Li is 12-15 years.
Do Dragon Li cats shed?
Dragon Li are short-haired cats. Therefore, they do not shed as much as long-haired cat breeds.
FIND MORE CAT BREEDS
Related Articles
Tortoiseshell Versus Calico Cats: What’s the Difference Between Them?
Are Siamese Cats Hypoallergenic?
The 9 Friendliest & Nicest Cat Breeds In the World
What Is a Caliby Cat?
What Is a New Cat Breed?
The Ultimate Persian Cat Grooming Guide
The 7 Most Adorable Flat-Faced Cat Breeds
All About Calico Cats
8 Gorgeous Grey Cat Breeds (With Pictures)
All About Majestic Orange Tabby Cats
10 Cat Breeds That Live The Longest
Rescued a Dragon Li off the street here in China where I live. She is probably about a year old now. and we have had her 4 months. She is a beautiful and very clever girl, but the article is right about her persoality: She does not sit on your lap at all but she always wants to be close and know what you are doing. Energetic and playful too, but a very violent player: draws blood from us regularly. W love her for all of it! A very nice and interesing breed.
I agree with most of the personality traits but mine is a cuddler but if he jumps into some ones lap its me, not the rest of my family lol
Good cat
My Dragon Li has 2 distinct, symmetrical dots (birthmarks?) on either side of the bridge of his nose, for a total of 4 dots….I don’t see a lot of pictures of cats w these markings and I’m assuming they are rare, are they? I would love to send a pic so someone can see exactly what I am talking about. Please help me find answers….
Hi Michael, thanks for commenting. I haven’t heard of these dots as a typical marking in either Dragon Li cats or other breeds. I’ll send you an email, and perhaps we can put this question out to others who may be able to help you more. – Mallory
Some birthmarks may exist on the face or body, usually a small piece. We think that the kittens with these birthmarks are some marks given by God to make them unique.