The Dragon Li, also is known as Li Hua Mau, or Li Hua Mao (in pinyin ), or simply Li Mao, is a Chinese Cat breed originating from nascent Chinese folklore and dynastic culture. Although Li Hua Mao is the more prevalent name for the breed in China, more recently, the name Dragon Li has been utilized internationally to reflect the symbolic nature of China relevant to the mythical Chinese dragon .

Dragon Li Cat Origin

The eponymous Dragon Li cat is thought to be a natural self-domesticating breed by way of the wild cat subspecies, Chinese mountain cat ( Felis silvestris bieti ).

In 2003 the Dragon Li cats debuted as an experimental breed class in Beijing, China December 30th 2003 - January 6th 2004 Allbreed Judges Dolores Kennedy & Barb Belanger of the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) were guests of the Cat Aficionado Association (CAA) and judged the event.

In 2005 an ideal male example ('Needy') presented by its owner Da Han, was shown and won its class as 1st place CAA champion per an official breed standard . The event was judged by John Douglas Blackmore of the ACFA. Since gaining international recognition, and due in part to its limited availability, the Dragon Li/LiHua Mau has now become a focus of attention the world over.

Dragon Li Cat Appearence

The Dragon Li cat displays a unique golden brown, broken mackerel (also known as broken striped) tabby pattern, distinctive ear tipping, large round almond shaped luminescent yellow or green eyes, and a strong full bodied stature reminiscent of its wild nature.

The Dragon Li Cat Temperament

The Dragon Li cat is valued for its unmistakable intelligence, an uncanny cognizance in relation to its surroundings, and its ability to perspicuously interact with humans.