Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Felidae

Species: Felis catus

 

Physical Description:

With his angora soft fur, golden caramel color, and perfectly striped tail, you may think he already hit the genetic jackpot.  But it’s his signature white eyeliner that puts him over the top and sets him apart from the pride.

Size:

Weighing in at nearly 20 pounds (16.5 lbs to be exact), Van begs the question: big boy cat or baby lion? His tail measures 13 inches and weighs 2 lbs. He stands 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Geographic Distribution:

Born just south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this cat has traveled all over.  He has dared to cross state lines venturing south of the Mason Dixon line.  He settled into Northern Virginia for the milder winters and then years later packed his bags and headed west to Texas.  He still maintains his summer home in Pennsylvania, where the warm summer breeze blows across the deck he once called home.

Status:

The estimated U.S. population of feral cats is 60 million.  The estimated number of Van Diesels: one.

Habitat:

5 story tree house, 8 sq feet

Natural Diet:

This cat eats organic chicken and seafood.  His rapid metabolism and intense bird surveillance activity requires him to feed on approximately 10 oz of meat per day.


Life Span:

​

At just 5 years of age, living this pampered life, we have many years of memories ahead to look forward to with Van Diesel. Long live this king.

Closest Relatives:

Lion (Panthera leo) The world's most social felines, lions usually get by with a little help from their pride mates.

Tiger (Panthera tigris) A powerful hunter with sharp teeth, strong jaws, and an agile body, the tiger is the largest member of the cat family.

Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) Built more like greyhounds than typical cats, cheetahs are adapted for brief but intense bursts of speed.

​

Fun Facts:

1. Don’t let his size fool you, Van’s meow is the least ferocious of any other cat.
2. Van sleeps approximately 16 hours per day.
3. They say cats don’t do tricks…but this cat does!  Check out theSights&Sounds section.
4. Laser Fast: reaching speeds of up to 8mph, check out the Sights&Sounds section to see this speed racer. 

​​​Van Diesel