An Introduction to the Chinese Li Hua Cat

1 An Introduction to the Chinese Li Hua Cat

Although cheap at home, abroad the Li Hua commands high prices and, with its unique spirit, is loved worldwide and affectionately called ‘Dragon-Li’.

Benefits of keeping a Li Hua:

Shaped by a thousand years of natural evolution, the Li Hua adapts strongly to the outside and has a powerful gene pool. A born hunter, it is excellent at catching mice and will bring one to the owner for praise, proud of a job well done. So a Li Hua home has no mice.

Proudly, no disease is known as a Li Hua hereditary weakness, unlike many breeds that carry some predisposition.

Handsome and spirited, with a strong, well-proportioned build, dense glossy fur and natural tabby markings.

Independent and understanding, it asks little of food or environment and is easy to keep.

Even if the owner leaves for days, it copes well, and once bonded stays fiercely loyal, guarding you silently.

Even if given away or abandoned, it returns on its own; even with no food at home, it loyally guards the house rather than eat.

So if you keep a Li Hua, do not abandon it, or you harm it deeply.

A Li Hua also uses the litter box itself and finds herbs to self-medicate.

Though hard to tame and often scolding you, it is loyal to one owner for life, cares deeply, brings little gifts, and shows affection by sitting its bottom on your face.

Drawbacks of keeping a Li Hua:

Want one? Think hard first; unlike others it does not enjoy a life of leisure at home.

Full of wild genes and endless energy, it wants out daily; home is just a place to sleep and visit. Thus many call it wild, untamed and hard to keep, because most want a gentle cat they can pet without resistance.

If you want an obedient cat, consider carefully. The Li Hua is born clever, aloof and proud, not clingy. At home it acts superior; it may come to you, but if you approach first it may bite and scratch. Yet it stays in your sight, showing presence now and then.

Much wildness remains; even housed, it stays alert and agile, and likes to bully cats and tease dogs.

In multi-cat homes the Li Hua is often the boss; dogs step aside.

It also catches roaches, mice, sparrows and goldfish for extra meals, leaving only people and cats alive at home.

It loves stealing food and, eating much, becomes the ‘Chinese Li Hua pig’, gaining weight by its own effort.