Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The German Longhaired Cat is a rare breed that originated in Germany, with references dating back to the 19th century. It is believed to have descended from European domestic shorthairs, in which natural mutations and selective breeding fixed the gene for longer hair. In the early 20th century, the breed gained popularity and was shown at cat exhibitions but was later overshadowed by other longhaired breeds, particularly the Persian. Restoration began in the 1930s, when enthusiasts sought to preserve the genetic identity of the German line. After World War II, breeding efforts resumed, and today the breed is recognized by several systems and considered a national treasure.
General Appearance
The German Longhaired Cat gives the impression of a harmoniously built, medium-sized animal with a strong skeleton and well-developed muscles. The body is moderately long and solid, without coarseness, featuring smooth transitions between body parts. The neck is of medium length, strong, and proportional to the overall structure. The limbs are medium in height and sturdy, with rounded, firm paws. The tail is well-proportioned, of moderate length and fullness, and richly covered with fur. The coat is soft and of medium length, forming a luxurious ruff, tail plume, and breeches on the hind legs. A wide variety of coat colors is allowed. The facial expression is gentle and friendly, reflecting the calm and balanced nature of the breed.
Important Proportions
Harmony and balance are key characteristics of the German Longhaired Cat. The body length slightly exceeds the shoulder height, creating an elegant yet solid outline. The neck should flow smoothly into the body, being neither too long nor too short. The tail equals the body length up to the shoulder blades, maintaining overall balance. The head is wedge-shaped but not elongated or massive, proportionate to the body. Eyes are medium-sized and evenly spaced. Limbs are of moderate length, ensuring stability and balance. The overall proportions should demonstrate harmony between bone structure, musculature, and coat, producing an elegant and well-balanced silhouette.
Behavior and Temperament
The German Longhaired Cat is calm, even-tempered, and affectionate. It forms a close bond with its owner, enjoys companionship, yet remains unobtrusive. The breed is valued for its sociability and gentle disposition, making it an excellent companion for both families and individuals. Moderately active, it enjoys play but is not overly excitable. Intelligent and adaptable, it adjusts easily to various living conditions. It gets along well with other animals when socialized early. The breed displays natural dignity, confidence, and a harmonious balance between gentleness and vitality.
Head
The head is medium-sized, proportionate to the body, with soft lines and a slightly elongated wedge shape. The cheekbones are defined but not wide, blending smoothly into the muzzle. The forehead is slightly rounded with a gentle transition to the nose. The chin is firm yet not heavy, clearly outlined. The head must not appear too large or narrow — balance is essential. The overall contour emphasizes natural refinement, creating an impression of elegance and nobility without coarseness.
Facial Structure
The facial structure is soft and well-balanced. The nose is straight, of medium length, with no abrupt curve; the bridge transitions smoothly from the forehead. The chin is firm, aligning harmoniously with the profile. Whiskers are long and well-developed, enhancing expression. Cheeks are slightly rounded, maintaining symmetry. The face should neither appear coarse nor narrow. The overall expression is gentle, open, and friendly, reflecting the breed’s temperament and natural appeal.
Eyes
Eyes are medium-sized, round or slightly oval, wide-set, and expressive. Their color depends on the coat but must always be pure, bright, and saturated. The eyes are evenly spaced, emphasizing head symmetry. The gaze is soft and kind, often thoughtful, projecting calm and intelligence. The eye contour is enhanced by surrounding coat tones, adding to expressiveness. The eyes are a defining feature of the breed’s appearance.
Ears
Ears are medium in size, slightly pointed at the tips, set high and fairly wide apart. Their shape complements the wedge-shaped head — neither too large nor too small. The inner surface is covered with soft fur, often with small tufts, adding natural expressiveness. The outer line of the ear continues the smooth contour of the head. The ears should look alert yet harmonious, expressing attentiveness. Overly large, small, or poorly set ears are considered faults.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, muscular, and proportional to the body. It connects the head and torso in a smooth, graceful line. The neck should be strong without appearing coarse or heavy, maintaining elegance. A ruff of longer fur adds to the breed’s noble look. The head is carried confidently, without heaviness. The neck contributes to overall balance and is an essential part of the silhouette.
Body
The body is medium in size, slightly elongated, with a solid bone structure and well-developed muscles. The chest is deep and rounded, the back is straight and strong, and transitions between parts are smooth. The croup is well-developed but not coarse, maintaining a level topline. The overall impression is one of strength, harmony, and elegance. Balance between chest, back, and hindquarters must create a fluid, natural silhouette emphasizing health and stability.
Tail
The tail is of medium or slightly longer length, proportionate to the body. Its base is of moderate thickness, tapering slightly toward the rounded tip. It is fully covered with long, dense fur, giving a soft, plumed appearance. The tail should not be too short or too thin. In motion, it is carried gracefully, serving as a natural continuation of the body line. The tail highlights the breed’s grace and elegance.
Forelimbs
Forelegs are of medium length, straight and strong, providing stability and balance. The bone structure is firm but not heavy. The shoulders are sloped at the correct angle. Paws are round and compact, with thick pads and tufts between the toes. Limbs should neither appear thin nor heavy — balance is essential. Movement should be free and coordinated. Proper forelegs reflect stability, confidence, and natural strength.
Hind Limbs
Hind legs are powerful and muscular, slightly longer than the forelegs, creating an elegant rise of the back. The thighs are broad and strong, with well-defined joints. Paws are round and compact, with tufts between the toes. The hind limbs must ensure stability and smooth movement. When viewed from behind, they should be straight and parallel, showing correct alignment and strength.
Gait and Movement
The gait is light, elegant, and confident. Movements are smooth, free, and well-coordinated, demonstrating strength and harmony. The cat walks with even, silent steps; in motion, it moves gracefully and elastically. The gait must be natural and effortless, without stiffness or tension. Flexibility and balance combine with power and poise, highlighting the breed’s physical harmony.
Coat
The coat is semi-long, soft, and silky, with a well-developed undercoat. The fur lies smoothly along the body, forming a rich ruff, breeches, and tail plume. It must not be coarse or overly thick. Regular grooming maintains its shine and texture. The fur is shorter on the face and legs, longer on the neck and tail, forming a graceful outline.
Acceptable Colors
A wide range of colors is accepted for the German Longhaired Cat. All traditional solid colors are permitted — black, white, blue, red, and cream. Bicolors, harlequins, and all tabby patterns (classic, mackerel, spotted, marble) are allowed. Silver and golden varieties, with or without pattern, are also accepted. Colorpoint patterns with blue eyes are permissible. Chocolate, cinnamon, and fawn colors are not allowed. The coat should be clear and evenly colored, with sharp and distinct patterns where applicable.
Size
The German Longhaired Cat is medium-sized. Males are larger and more muscular, weighing 4.5–6.5 kg; females are lighter, 3.5–5 kg, with a more refined silhouette. The shoulder height should correspond harmoniously to the body length. Regardless of sex, the cat must appear balanced, neither heavy nor too delicate, always retaining elegance and proportion.
Faults
Faults include deviations from the breed’s harmonious silhouette and proportions. An excessively massive or narrow body, weak muscles, underdeveloped chest, or short tail are undesirable. Disproportionate head shape, overly long muzzle, or coarse chin are faults. Small, dull, or slanted eyes detract from expression. Poor ear placement disturbs balance. Coat faults include a missing ruff, sparse tail plume, or harsh texture. Movement faults include stiffness, weak limbs, or narrow stance. Color faults include faded eye color, uneven coat tone, or unclear patterning.
Disqualification
Disqualifying defects include serious deviations from the standard. Aggressive or excessively fearful behavior makes judging impossible. Structural defects such as polydactyly, tail deformities, cross eyes, jaw deformities, or incorrect bite are disqualifying. Absence of coat, bald patches, or severe texture defects are not allowed. Hybrid colors like chocolate, cinnamon, fawn, or their combinations are disqualifying. Odd eyes (unless permitted by coat color) or total mismatch of type are not accepted. Any severe health issues or genetic defects, as well as dangerous behavior, lead to disqualification from breeding or shows.
Important Notes
The German Longhaired Cat standard emphasizes harmony and natural balance. The breed should embody both elegance and strength without exaggeration. Breeders must prioritize health, avoiding mating animals with structural faults or hereditary diseases. Coat color cannot compensate for poor conformation. Regular grooming is essential to maintain coat quality. At shows, preference is given to cats with clear breed type, good health, and stable temperament. Only cats with ICCF documents confirming pedigree purity are eligible for breeding and exhibition. These requirements ensure the preservation and stability of the breed.
Conclusion
The German Longhaired Cat is a harmonious and elegant breed that combines natural beauty, strength, and a gentle temperament. The ICCF standard highlights correct proportions, an elegant silhouette, quality coat texture, and a balanced character. These cats are suitable for both family life and exhibition careers when properly cared for and bred responsibly. Only ICCF-registered cats with verified pedigrees may participate in shows and breeding programs, ensuring purity and compliance with the standard. The German Longhaired Cat, with its deep European heritage and refined appearance, stands as a symbol of grace, stability, and national pride.
