Indian Street Cat

Indian street cats can come in all shapes and sizes. But cats that resemble the typical Billi cat are medium-sized and muscular.

Signs of a life-long street cat include a clean, well-kept coat (thanks to their meticulous self-grooming), protective body language, and lack of eye contact. Because they are intact, male street cats may have thick necks, muscular bodies, and scars from fighting.

Billi cats generally have grey spots on their coats and darker colors on their tails. Other street cats can come in various colors, patterns, and lengths.

Traits of the indigenous Billi cat include a rectangular body, medium-length legs, and a long tail.

All domesticated cats trace their roots back to the African Wildcat. Remains of cats found buried in tombs in ancient Egypt suggest the relationship between humans and felines began thousands of years ago. As civilizations developed, cats became helpful partners in pest control.

Though dogs are by far the most common pet in India, cats are gaining popularity. Many people in India choose to adopt foreign pedigreed cats, such as Persians and Bengals. But the cat most commonly seen in shelters and on the streets is the native Billi cat.

Indian street cats primarily reside in big cities. Vehicle traffic, predators, extreme weather, and lack of rescue organizations all contribute to a difficult life for them.