Australian Mist

At a glance

The easy-going and extremely sociable Australian Mist has been known to make friends wherever they go. The can be found in a variety of colors and patterns and are considered loyal and dedicated to their owners. Find out more about this breed and if the Australian Mist is right for you and your family.

About the breed

Loyal and loving by nature, Mists are very people-oriented and love being with their families. They thrive on human companionship and participating in a busy household. They are best suited for those who enjoy spending time and interacting with them on a regular basis rather than being left alone for long periods of time.

Breed standard

Dr. Truda Straede created and developed the Australian Mists from her initial idea in 1977 to full championship in the Australian registries in 1986. Developed over more than 25 years – the Australian Mists have a very large gene pool derived from 50% European style Burmese, 25% Abyssinian, and 25% Domestic Spotted tabby. Outcrossing to the original breeds is no longer recommended.

Activity and home life

Australian Mist cats are considered playful and inquisitive. They are active kittens but calm down as they mature. As adults they prefer a warm lap rather than chasing objects.

They are easy to train like to be active and even play fetch, but they are happiest when cuddled with their families. They make great family pets and are good with young children, other pets, people living on their own and the elderly and disabled.

Breed information and care

This breed was developed by Truda Straede in Australia beginning in 1976. The breed was developed by crossing the Burmese, Abyssinian, and miscellaneous domestic short-haired cats to create a short-haired cat with a spotted coat. The name was changed from “Spotted Mist” to “Australian Mist” in 1998, when cats with marbled coats, rather than spots, were accepted as part of the breed. It is the only cat from Australia, while most cats aren’t in Australia.

Australian Mists are tolerant of handling and are not inclined to scratch. As kittens, they are lively, but are less so when mature. Australian Mists can be excellent indoor cats, which also protects native wildlife. Some Australian Mists can be trained to go for walks on a lead. Neutered/spayed cats and kittens of this breed fit in easily with other cats and dogs, a trait further enhanced through selective breeding.TraitsAustralian Mists are medium-sized short-haired cats, with a round head and large eyes. The coat is very short and lacks an undercoat. Australian Mists do not require much brushing because they lose little hair. The coat patterns have three aspects: the ground colour, which is paler than the pattern; the pattern; and the appearance of wearing a misted veil, caused by random ticking in the solid colour areas. The legs and tail are ringed or barred, and the face and neck also have lines of colour. Their life expectancy is 15-18 years.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can occur in cats, including this breed. A normal appearance does not rule out heart disease. Ask your veterinarian whether the individual cat’s history or examination warrants cardiac testing; screening methods and timing should be tailored to the cat.

The Mist’s short coat and moderate shedding don’t require much maintenance. A quick brush once a week will keep them in top condition.

As with all cats, keep their nails trimmed, ears cleaned and teeth brushed regularly with a vet-approved pet toothpaste and provide a nice tall scratching pole to help their natural scratching instinct.

Australian Mist cats do not have any particular nutritional needs other than good, quality, dry kibble.

As with all cats, it is important to give your cat fresh, clean water daily. Fresh, clean water is best, so cats don’t hesitate to drink. If you worry about your cat drinking enough water each day, here’s a tip from Jackson Galaxy and other cat behaviorists –Place the water bowl at least three feet away from any food. Cats’ noses are sensitive and an overwhelming smell of food may cause them to drink less. Filtered drinking fountains can also be used in place of a water bowl.