It is rare to come across a perfect example of this striking, flame-coloured cat. In practice, most have some tabby markings, particularly on the face, legs, and tail. Elsewhere, the long coat helps to make the markings less evident. Within a litter there may be some kittens that are Red Self and others that are Red Tabby.
History
Oranges, as Red Longhairs were originally known, were being shown in Britain as early as 1895. In the early 1930s, a German breeder produced some excellent examples of the breed, but unfortunately his stock was destroyed during World War II. The breed remained rare in Britain during the 1940s, but a revival of interest and selective breeding have ensured the Red Self's Continued presence on the show bench.
Temperament
Polite and friendly, the Red Self makes a highly decorative and pleasant companion.
Varieties
Peke-faced Reds and Red Tabbies sometimes appear as spontaneous mutations in otherwise normal litters of Red Self Kittens. These varieties are controversial because the extreme, squashed, facial features may cause breathing difficulties as well as skin problems.
Peke-face Longhair
A variety that has caused much debate, it has a nose that is ultra-snub, and set back in a furrowed muzzle. There is a distinct horizontal indentation between the eyes, which are particularly prominent.
HeadBroad and round with a snub nose. The nose pad should be brick-red. The lips and chin should be the same colour as the coat.
Ears
Small and round tipped and fine ear tufts.
Eyes
Large, round, and brilliant copper in colour.
Facial Characteristics
Red Self Longhair
Red Self Longhair
One of the hardest types to breed for exhibition, good examples of Red Selfs are few.
Body
A solid, cobby type.
Coat
Fur is silky and lush, and should be a deep orange-red colour with no shading or tabby markings.
Legs
Short and thick-set
Feet
The paws are large and round with pads that are brick-red in colour.
Tail
Short and fluffy, usually carried straight and low.
