Оfficial ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Classicat is a relatively new cat breed developed with the aim of combining the harmonious features of traditional domestic cats and the finest qualities of time-tested pedigree lines. The breeding program was carried out by enthusiasts seeking to establish a stable type characterized by elegance, natural grace, and a well-balanced temperament. The foundation of the breed included cats with classic body lines and naturally developed musculature. Over time, a unified standard was established, consolidating the key traits: balanced body structure, expressive head, high-quality coat, and stable character. Today, the Classicat is recognized as a cultural breed that unites traditional origins with modern requirements, making it highly valued by breeders and cat lovers alike.
General Appearance
The Classicat gives the impression of a harmonious, strong, and well-balanced cat of medium size with a solid bone structure and well-developed musculature. The silhouette is smooth, without sharp angles, and demonstrates refined elegance. All parts of the body are proportionally connected, emphasizing the breed’s natural beauty. The cat’s body lines are soft yet distinct, maintaining graceful movements and a dignified posture. Notable features include a well-developed chest, a proportionate head with balanced features, neat ears, and expressive eyes. The overall appearance reflects endurance, good health, and structural completeness, fully meeting ICCF standards.
Important Proportions
The key characteristic of the Classicat is the balanced relationship between body length and leg height, creating a harmonious silhouette. The body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers, lending elegance while maintaining strength. The head must be proportional to the body, with smooth lines and no excess massiveness. The neck is of medium length, flowing naturally into the shoulders and emphasizing overall balance. The tail should be approximately two-thirds of the body length, forming a smooth continuation of the silhouette. The legs are of medium length, straight, and well-developed, providing stability and grace of movement. All body parts must remain in perfect proportion, without exaggeration, which is an essential ICCF requirement.
Behavior and Temperament
The Classicat is distinguished by a friendly, balanced, and adaptable temperament. This breed shows strong affection toward humans, easily bonds with children and other animals, and maintains calmness and tolerance. Classicats are active and curious but not intrusive; they possess high intelligence and are easy to train. Their behavior reflects confidence and dignity — they adapt equally well to apartment living and country environments. The breed is not prone to aggression; on the contrary, it prefers harmonious communication. Movements are calm and smooth, reflecting the breed’s inner balance. The temperament is steady and moderate, corresponding to ICCF standards.
Head
The Classicat’s head is medium in size, proportional to the body, with soft and smooth lines. The contours are rounded, without roughness or sharp transitions. The forehead is slightly convex, gradually merging into the nasal line. The cheekbones are moderately pronounced and harmoniously connected with the muzzle, emphasizing balance. The chin is strong but not heavy, well-aligned with the nose line. The profile shows a gentle curve, without deep breaks or sharp angles. The head should give an impression of harmony and classical beauty, reflecting the breed’s name. Head-to-body balance is mandatory according to ICCF standards.
Facial Part
The facial structure of the Classicat features soft lines and a clear, pleasant expression. The muzzle is of medium length, slightly rounded, with a smooth transition to the cheeks. The nose is straight, of medium width, with a subtle curve at the bridge, never overly heavy. The chin is firm and well-defined but not protruding. Cheeks are moderately developed, emphasizing roundness and symmetry. The facial proportions must remain natural — neither too elongated nor shortened. All elements of the face should be symmetrical, creating a balanced appearance. The overall expression reflects attentiveness, poise, and natural elegance, in full compliance with ICCF standards.
Eyes
The eyes of the Classicat are large, expressive, and almond-shaped with a slight rounding at the corners. They are set at a medium distance apart, giving the cat a clear and attentive look. The color of the eyes is deep and rich, matching the coat color, with preference given to pure and even tones. The gaze should be lively yet calm, radiating intelligence and friendliness. Eyelids are neat and fit closely, accentuating the eye shape. Eyes are set slightly slanted toward the nose, which enhances the soft and harmonious facial expression. Expressive eyes are a key breed feature under ICCF standards.
Ears
The ears are medium in size, set wide apart, and slightly tilted forward, creating a harmonious expression. The base is broad, tapering smoothly to rounded tips. The inner surfaces are well furnished with fine hair, and small tufts are acceptable. Ears must be proportional to the head — neither too large nor too small. Their placement complements the rounded contours of the skull and the soft facial profile. Proper ear shape and positioning are mandatory for breed standard compliance, as they define the Classicat’s balanced and characteristic appearance.
Neck
The neck of the Classicat is medium in length, strong, elegant, and harmoniously connects the head to the body. It widens smoothly toward the shoulders, emphasizing the graceful silhouette. The neck must not appear too long or too thick — balance and proportion are essential. Musculature is well-developed, ensuring strength and stability. The smooth lines of the neck enhance the breed’s natural grace and refinement. It should be visually proportionate to the body, with no signs of heaviness or frailty, in full accordance with ICCF standards.
Body
The body of the Classicat is firm, medium in length, with smooth lines and well-developed musculature. The chest is rounded, broad, and deep, providing excellent lung capacity. The back is straight and even, with a gentle transition to the loin and croup. The abdomen is tight but not overly lean, maintaining harmony of shape. The skeleton is strong yet not coarse, conveying both strength and elegance. The body proportions should remain balanced, avoiding extremes of elongation or compactness. The overall impression is one of vitality, natural harmony, and breed completeness in line with ICCF requirements.
Tail
The tail is of medium length, approximately two-thirds of the body length, and completes the silhouette harmoniously. The base is broad, tapering smoothly to a rounded tip. It should be flexible, proportionate, and carried gracefully. The tail must have a uniform coat coverage, dense and even throughout. It should neither be too short nor too long — balance is essential. Correct shape and carriage of the tail give the Classicat its characteristic symmetry and poise, fully corresponding to ICCF standards.
Exterior Description
Forelimbs
The forelegs are straight, sturdy, and of medium length, proportional to the body. The bone structure is solid but not heavy, and the musculature is well developed. The shoulder blades fit closely, forming a smooth transition to the body. Elbows are directed straight backward, not turned inward or outward. The pasterns are strong and slightly springy, ensuring stability and elegance. Paws are rounded, compact, with dense pads and neat claws. The front legs should combine strength and grace, maintaining correct proportions according to ICCF standards.
Hind Limbs
The hind limbs are strong, muscular, and slightly longer than the forelimbs, giving the body a subtle rise toward the croup. The thighs are powerful, smoothly transitioning into well-developed knees. The lower legs are straight and proportionate, with firm hocks directed backward. Paws are rounded, neat, with firm pads and steady placement. The hind limbs provide jumping power and smooth movement, highlighting endurance and elegance. Harmony between the front and hind limbs is essential to ICCF conformation.
Gait and Movement
The Classicat’s gait is smooth, elegant, and confident. Movements are well-coordinated, elastic, and balanced. The cat moves easily and gracefully, maintaining stability even during active motion. The back remains level, and the tail continues the body line. Paws are placed straight without crossing or swaying. In both motion and rest, the Classicat demonstrates dignity and confidence. Its gait reflects good health and breed type, fully meeting ICCF standards.
Coat
The coat of the Classicat is dense, glossy, and may be short or medium in length, depending on the line. It lies close to the body, elastic and even throughout. The undercoat is moderate, not overly thick, but provides sufficient volume and protection. The texture is soft and silky, with a natural sheen. The coat should emphasize the body’s elegant lines without obscuring them. Its resilience to external conditions reflects overall good health. Grooming requirements are minimal, as the coat naturally maintains a neat appearance. All coat characteristics comply with ICCF standards.
Acceptable Colors
The Classicat allows a wide range of colors, provided they are pure, even, and in harmony with the breed type. Solid colors include black, white, blue, cream, and red. All tabby patterns are accepted: mackerel, spotted, marble, and ticked. Silver and smoke varieties, as well as bicolors and vans, are permitted. Eye color must harmonize with the coat, enhancing expression. Uneven patches, blurred markings, or artificial tones are not allowed. Each color should enhance the breed’s natural balance and conform to ICCF standards.
Size
Male Classicats are generally larger and heavier than females but maintain overall harmony of outline. Adult males typically weigh 5–7 kg, while females weigh 3.5–5 kg. Height at the withers is medium and proportionate to body length. Slight sexual dimorphism in size and musculature is acceptable. Both sexes must appear balanced, without signs of obesity or frailty. Proper size emphasizes the breed’s elegance and strength, fully matching ICCF standards.
Faults
Faults include any deviations from harmonious proportions and breed type. Weak body structure, poor musculature, or overly heavy bones reduce evaluation. A head that is too narrow or wide, a weak chin, or a long muzzle are considered undesirable. Oversized or undersized ears that disrupt head balance are faults. Incorrect eye placement, dull color, a narrow chest, or a sagging back are also undesirable. Coat faults include harsh texture, lack of gloss, or uneven color patterning. Any deviation that distorts the balanced and natural appearance of the breed is treated as a fault according to ICCF standards.
Disqualification
Disqualifying defects include serious anatomical or behavioral abnormalities that make the cat unfit for breeding or exhibition. This includes jaw deformities, severe bite misalignment, missing teeth, strong head asymmetry, or deformed skull. Crossed eyes, incorrect eye shape, or discolored irises are disqualifying. Tail deformities such as kinks or shortened vertebrae are unacceptable. Cats with visible signs of rickets, limb deformities, or movement disorders are excluded. Aggressive, excessively nervous, or fearful cats are also disqualified. Non-standard coat colors or severe coat defects automatically exclude the animal from ICCF breeding and shows.
Important Notes
The Classicat breed requires careful preservation of its natural type. Breeders must avoid exaggerations or artificial alterations that distort the breed’s harmony. Special attention must be given to health, skeletal strength, proper musculature, and balanced proportions. Breeding programs should exclude cats with hereditary diseases or notable deviations from the standard. All show and breeding animals must undergo veterinary examination and possess verified ICCF documentation. The standard is designed to preserve the balance of beauty, health, and temperament as core values of the breed.
Conclusion
The Classicat is a breed that embodies classical balance, sound health, and a calm temperament. It fully conforms to the ICCF system, where correct proportions, mental stability, and lineage purity are of paramount importance. Participation in shows and breeding programs is permitted only for cats with official ICCF documents confirming their pedigree and conformity to the standard. This ensures breed quality and controlled development. The Classicat represents natural beauty, elegance, and friendliness — a true cultural and promising breed officially recognized within ICCF.
