Asian Semi-longhair (Tiffanie)
Breed Description

The Asian Semi-longhair is known by two primary names that are used somewhat interchangeably, though with regional preferences. In the United Kingdom, where the breed originated, it is most commonly called the Asian Semi-longhair, emphasizing its connection to the Asian cat group. In North America and some other regions, the breed is more frequently referred to as the Tiffanie, a name that evokes elegance and sophistication. Both names are officially recognized by cat registries, though some organizations prefer one designation over the other.

The name "Asian Semi-longhair" reflects the breed's development as the long-haired variant of the Asian cat breed group, which includes several related breeds all sharing Burmese ancestry. This naming convention helps cat enthusiasts understand the breed's genetic relationship to other Asian group cats, which include the Bombay, Burmilla, and Asian Shorthair. The semi-longhair designation accurately describes the coat length, which is longer than a shorthair but not as long as breeds like the Persian or Maine Coon.

The alternate name "Tiffanie" has an interesting history and should not be confused with the Tiffany or Chantilly-Tiffany, which is a completely different breed that originated in North America. The Tiffanie name was chosen to distinguish the Asian Semi-longhair when it gained recognition, providing a memorable and distinctive identifier. Some breeders and breed enthusiasts prefer this name as it gives the breed its own identity separate from being simply the long-haired version of another breed. Regardless of which name is used, both refer to the same beautiful, affectionate breed with Burmese heritage and a luxurious semi-long coat.

The Asian Semi-longhair is a medium-sized cat with an elegant, well-balanced appearance that combines muscular substance with refined grace. Males typically weigh between 9-12 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 8-10 pounds. Their body is moderately foreign in type, meaning it's neither as compact as a Persian nor as sleek as a Siamese, but rather strikes an appealing middle ground. The body is medium-length with good muscle tone, a level back, and a rounded chest. Despite their sturdy build, they move with fluid grace and athleticism.

The head is a gently rounded wedge with a short, blunt muzzle and a distinct nose break. Their face has gentle contours without flat planes, creating a sweet, appealing expression. The ears are medium to large, set well apart, and broad at the base with slightly rounded tips. They tilt slightly forward, giving the cat an alert, interested appearance. The most striking feature is their large, expressive eyes, which are set well apart and range from yellow-green to amber in color. The eyes have an oriental slant that adds to their exotic appeal without being as extreme as in Siamese cats.

The Asian Semi-longhair's coat is their crowning glory. The fur is fine, silky, and semi-long, lying close to the body without the excessive volume of Persian-type breeds. The coat length is shorter on the shoulders and gradually lengthens along the back and sides. They have a noticeable ruff around the neck, feathering on the ears, britches on the hind legs, and a plumed tail that's carried proudly. Unlike some long-haired breeds, the Asian Semi-longhair's coat doesn't mat easily due to its silky texture and lack of dense undercoat, making grooming more manageable.

The breed comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, all of which are accepted by breed standards. Solid colors include black, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, and cinnamon. They also come in tortoiseshell, smoke (solid color with white undercoat), shaded (darker color on the tips gradually lightening to the roots), and various tabby patterns. The Asian Semi-longhair's legs are slender and elegant with oval paws, and their tail is medium to long, well-furnished with fur that creates an elegant plume. Overall, they present as a refined, beautiful cat that balances substance with elegance.

The Asian Semi-longhair, or Tiffanie, has its origins in the United Kingdom during the 1980s as an accidental creation that became a deliberate breeding program. The breed emerged from the Burmilla breeding program, which itself was the result of an accidental mating in 1981 between a Chinchilla Persian and a lilac Burmese in the home of Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg. This serendipitous union produced beautiful silver-shaded kittens that became the foundation of the Burmilla breed and the broader Asian cat group.

As breeders worked to establish the Burmilla and related Asian Shorthair varieties, occasionally kittens were born with longer coats due to the recessive longhair gene inherited from the Persian ancestor in their background. Initially, these semi-longhaired kittens were considered variants or anomalies within the breeding program. However, breeders soon recognized that these longer-coated cats had their own unique appeal, combining the Burmese personality and body type with a luxurious, silky semi-long coat that was easier to maintain than a full Persian coat.

By the mid-1980s, British breeders began deliberately breeding for these semi-longhaired cats, establishing them as a distinct variety within the Asian cat group. The breed was developed using careful selective breeding that incorporated Burmese for type and temperament, with the longhair gene from the original Persian cross producing the desired coat length. The breeding program focused on maintaining the moderate, foreign body type and sweet temperament of the Burmese while showcasing the elegant semi-long coat. Unlike some breeds that took decades to develop, the Asian Semi-longhair benefited from the existing foundation of the Asian group.

The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the United Kingdom recognized the Asian Semi-longhair as a distinct breed in the 1990s, granting it full championship status. The breed gained recognition under the Asian cat group, which includes all the related varieties sharing similar genetics. In other countries, particularly in North America, the breed became known as the Tiffanie, though recognition has been more limited compared to the UK. The name distinction helped separate it from the unrelated Chantilly-Tiffany breed and gave it a unique identity in regions where the Asian group classification is less commonly used.

Today, the Asian Semi-longhair remains most popular in the United Kingdom and Europe, where the Asian cat group is well-established and appreciated. The breed has a dedicated following of enthusiasts who value the combination of Burmese temperament with the elegant semi-long coat. While not as common as some other pedigreed breeds, the Asian Semi-longhair has carved out a niche among cat lovers who want an affectionate, social companion with a beautiful, manageable coat. Breeders continue to work toward maintaining breed standards while ensuring genetic health and the wonderful temperament that makes these cats such delightful companions.

The Asian Semi-longhair inherits the wonderful Burmese temperament, making them one of the most people-oriented and affectionate cat breeds. These cats form incredibly strong bonds with their human families and genuinely need regular interaction and companionship to thrive. Unlike more independent cat breeds, the Asian Semi-longhair actively seeks out human company and wants to be involved in everything their family does. They'll follow you from room to room, supervise your activities, and gladly participate in household tasks from the vantage point of your shoulder or lap. This need for companionship means they don't do well when left alone for long periods and are best suited to homes where someone is present most of the time or where they have another pet for company.

These cats are remarkably social and friendly with everyone they meet, not just their immediate family. They typically greet visitors with interest and curiosity rather than running to hide, making them excellent hosts. Their sociable nature extends to strangers, service people, and friends, with most Asian Semi-longhairs willing to accept attention from anyone offering it. This friendly disposition makes them unsuitable as guard cats but perfect as welcoming committee members. They're known for their loyalty and devotion, often choosing a favorite person while still maintaining affectionate relationships with all family members.

Intelligent and curious, Asian Semi-longhairs are active participants in their households. They're observant cats who learn routines quickly and pay attention to what's happening around them. Many can learn tricks, understand basic commands, and figure out how to open doors or cabinets if properly motivated. They enjoy puzzle toys and interactive games that challenge their minds. Their intelligence combined with their social nature means they benefit from regular mental stimulation through play, training, or new experiences. Boredom can lead to attention-seeking behaviors, so keeping them engaged is important.

The Asian Semi-longhair maintains a playful disposition throughout their lives, though they're not hyperactive or overly demanding. They enjoy interactive play sessions with wand toys, chasing balls, or playing fetch with favorite toys. Their moderate energy level means they balance playtime with cuddle time beautifully. After a good play session, they're perfectly content to settle down for a nap in your lap or beside you on the couch. This balance makes them adaptable to various household activity levels, fitting in equally well with active families and quieter homes.

These cats are moderately vocal, using their voice to communicate with their families but without the excessive chattiness of some Oriental breeds. They have softer, sweeter voices than Burmese cats and will use gentle meows, chirps, and trills to let you know when they want food, attention, or playtime. They're conversational cats who enjoy "talking" with their people but aren't typically loud or demanding about it. Their communication style is pleasant and melodious, adding to their charm as companions who engage with their families in multiple ways.

Caring for an Asian Semi-longhair involves meeting their social needs as much as their physical requirements. These cats genuinely need companionship and don't thrive when left alone for extended periods. If your household is empty during work hours, consider getting two cats so they can keep each other company, or ensure you spend quality time with your cat when you're home. Interactive play sessions of at least 15-20 minutes twice daily help satisfy their need for attention and provide essential exercise. They enjoy a variety of toys, particularly interactive wands, balls they can chase, and puzzle feeders that engage their intelligence.

Environmental enrichment is important for keeping these intelligent, social cats happy. Provide cat trees or climbing structures where they can observe their territory from high vantage points. Window perches with views of bird feeders or outdoor activity provide entertainment during the day. Many Asian Semi-longhairs enjoy watching cat-oriented videos or looking at fish tanks. Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest, and consider clicker training or teaching tricks as a form of mental stimulation and bonding. Some cats enjoy harness training for supervised outdoor exploration, which can provide additional enrichment.

Litter box maintenance is essential for all cats, and the Asian Semi-longhair is no exception. Provide at least one litter box per cat plus one extra, and keep them scrupulously clean with daily scooping. These cats appreciate cleanliness and may avoid dirty boxes, potentially leading to inappropriate elimination. Choose large boxes that give your cat plenty of room to move and turn around comfortably. Most Asian Semi-longhairs aren't particular about litter type, though unscented, clumping varieties are generally preferred. Place boxes in quiet, accessible locations away from food and water dishes.

Regular veterinary care is crucial for maintaining your Asian Semi-longhair's health throughout their life. Schedule annual wellness exams where your veterinarian can perform physical examinations, monitor weight, and discuss any health concerns. Keep vaccinations current based on your veterinarian's recommendations and your cat's lifestyle. Preventive care including parasite control is important even for indoor cats. Dental health deserves special attention, as dental disease can lead to serious health problems. Establish a tooth brushing routine early, aiming for daily brushing or at least several times per week. Dental treats and toys can supplement brushing but shouldn't replace it entirely. Your veterinarian may recommend periodic professional dental cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.

Asian Semi-longhairs require a high-quality diet rich in animal protein to maintain their health and elegant physique. As obligate carnivores, cats need meat-based proteins as the foundation of their nutrition. Look for cat foods listing specific meats like chicken, turkey, fish, or beef as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, which provide little nutritional value for cats. Both wet and dry foods can meet their dietary needs, though many veterinarians recommend a combination of both to provide variety and additional hydration through wet food.

Portion control is important for Asian Semi-longhairs to maintain their sleek, medium build. While they're not typically prone to obesity, overfeeding combined with insufficient exercise can lead to weight gain. Adult cats generally need about 20 calories per pound of body weight daily, though individual needs vary based on activity level, age, and metabolism. Feeding measured portions at set times rather than free-feeding helps prevent overeating and allows you to monitor food intake. Most adult Asian Semi-longhairs do well with two meals daily, spaced approximately 8-12 hours apart, which helps maintain stable energy levels and prevents hunger-induced vomiting.

Kittens have significantly higher nutritional requirements than adults to support their rapid growth and boundless energy. Feed Asian Semi-longhair kittens food specifically formulated for kittens, which contains higher protein, fat, and calorie content than adult formulas. Kittens under six months typically need three to four small meals daily, which can be reduced to twice daily as they approach adulthood around 12 months. Gradually transition from kitten to adult food over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of kitten food to prevent digestive upset.

As Asian Semi-longhairs reach their senior years (typically around 7-10 years old), their nutritional needs may change. Senior cats often benefit from foods formulated for older cats, which may have adjusted protein levels and added supplements for joint health and kidney function. Monitor senior cats' weight carefully, as they may need fewer calories if activity decreases, though some seniors need more calories if they start losing weight. Ensure fresh, clean water is always available. Some cats prefer running water and will drink more from cat water fountains, which can encourage better hydration important for kidney and urinary tract health. Never feed your cat dog food, raw meat, cooked bones, or human foods toxic to cats including onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol.

The Asian Semi-longhair is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years, benefiting from hybrid vigor due to their diverse genetic background. The breed's development from Burmese and Persian crosses, along with careful breeding practices, has resulted in relatively good overall health. However, like all cats and particularly those with Burmese ancestry, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions that potential owners should be aware of and that responsible breeders screen for.

When selecting an Asian Semi-longhair kitten, work with reputable breeders who health test their breeding cats and provide health guarantees. Ask about genetic testing for conditions like PKD and hypokalemic polymyopathy. A good breeder will be transparent about health issues in their lines and provide documentation of health screenings. Throughout your cat's life, maintaining preventive care, providing proper nutrition, ensuring regular exercise and mental stimulation, and monitoring for any behavioral or physical changes will help ensure your Asian Semi-longhair lives a long, healthy, happy life as your devoted companion.

The Asian Semi-longhair's coat is one of their most distinctive and attractive features. The fur is fine, soft, and silky to the touch, with a semi-long length that's shorter on the shoulders and gradually lengthens along the sides and back. They have a noticeable ruff around the neck that frames their face beautifully, feathering on the ears, full britches on the hind legs, and a luxuriously plumed tail. Unlike many long-haired breeds, the Asian Semi-longhair lacks a dense undercoat, which is why their coat lies relatively close to the body and has that flowing, silky appearance rather than standing out in a fluffy mass like a Persian.

This breed comes in a spectacular variety of colors and patterns, giving potential owners many beautiful options. Solid self colors include black, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, caramel, and apricot. Tortoiseshell patterns combine two colors in random patches, while smoke varieties have a solid color coat with a white or silver undercoat visible when the fur is parted. Shaded cats have darker color on the tips of the fur that gradually lightens toward the roots, creating a beautiful gradient effect. Tabby patterns include classic (marbled), mackerel (striped), spotted, and ticked, all of which are accepted in various color combinations. The eyes are typically yellow-green to amber, perfectly complementing the coat colors.

Grooming an Asian Semi-longhair is surprisingly manageable compared to other long-haired breeds. Their silky coat texture and lack of dense undercoat mean the fur doesn't mat easily, making them one of the easier long-coated breeds to maintain. Brush your cat two to three times per week using a stainless steel comb or slicker brush to remove loose hair and distribute natural skin oils throughout the coat. During spring and fall when seasonal shedding increases, daily brushing may be helpful. Start grooming routines when your cat is young so they learn to enjoy the attention and bonding time that grooming provides.

Bathing is rarely necessary for Asian Semi-longhairs unless they get into something messy or have a specific skin condition requiring medicated baths. Their coat naturally repels dirt and maintains its condition without frequent washing. If a bath is needed, use a high-quality cat-specific shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to prevent residue. Trim nails every 2-3 weeks or as needed using proper cat nail clippers. Check ears weekly and clean with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner and cotton ball if they appear dirty, never inserting anything into the ear canal itself. Regular grooming sessions provide opportunities to check for skin problems, lumps, parasites, or any other health concerns while strengthening your bond with your cat.

Asian Semi-longhairs generally do well in families with children, though they appreciate respectful interaction rather than rough handling. These cats are patient and gentle but prefer calm, predictable environments over chaotic, loud households. They typically bond well with older children who understand how to approach and handle cats appropriately, often engaging in play and enjoying the attention. Younger children can also do well with Asian Semi-longhairs when taught proper pet interaction, including gentle petting, appropriate play, and recognizing when the cat needs space. Supervision of interactions between young children and cats is always recommended to ensure positive experiences for both.

Teaching children proper cat etiquette helps create harmonious relationships. Show them how to approach the cat calmly, offer a finger for sniffing before petting, and stroke gently along the back and sides. Explain that cats don't enjoy being grabbed, squeezed, picked up roughly, or having their tails or ears pulled. Help children understand cat body language so they can recognize when their feline friend is enjoying attention or wants to be left alone. Asian Semi-longhairs will typically walk away or seek a hiding spot when they've had enough, and children must learn to respect these boundaries.

The Asian Semi-longhair's social nature extends to other household pets, making them suitable for multi-pet homes. They generally get along well with other cats, especially when properly introduced using gradual introduction methods. Their moderately playful nature means they often appreciate having a feline companion for mutual grooming and play sessions, particularly important in households where humans are away during the day. Asian Semi-longhairs typically don't do well as the only pet in a home where they're alone frequently, making a compatible feline companion beneficial for their emotional well-being.

Introducing an Asian Semi-longhair to dogs can be successful when done carefully and when the dog is cat-friendly. These cats are neither aggressive nor overly fearful, usually adjusting well to dogs when given proper time and introduction. Start with scent swapping and feeding on opposite sides of a closed door, gradually progressing to visual contact through baby gates before allowing supervised interactions. The cat should always have escape routes to high places where they can retreat if feeling overwhelmed. With patience and proper introductions, many Asian Semi-longhairs develop friendly relationships with household dogs, sometimes even engaging in play or napping together once they've established trust and comfort with each other.