Cat breed · Indonesia
Raas, also known as the Busok(-Raas) or Madura, cat is an endemic breed of domestic cat native to the Madura and Raas Island in Indonesia. Its foundation stock derives from a naturally occurring local variety, that developed as a distinct landrace through long-term isolation of the island's cat population. It is not recognised as a cat breed in one of the major cat registries, though the breed is under development through selective breeding with pedigree registration as a formally standardised breed by local breeder clubs.
The Raas is medium-sized with a firm, muscular build and a naturally shortened tail, ranging from tailless (rumpy) to short bobtailed forms. The Raas comes in four colour variations – black, blue (Busok), chocolate (Amethyst), and lilac. It is considered rare, with a very small remaining population of genetically pure individuals maintained through limited breeding programmes within Indonesia.
Behaviour: Raas cats are known for their high activity level, athletic build, strong attachment to their owners, and a distinctive loud, deep vocalisation compared with other cat breeds. The breed is reported to be sensitive to cold temperatures and high humidity, and is typically kept indoors, especially during cooler or wetter seasons.
History: Historically, the Raas cat was a local domestic cat associated with myth and legend on Raas Island, its place of origin. Traditionally, the cat was regarded as a prestigious gift and was given by local elders (kyai) to honoured guests or visiting officials, which meant that ownership was limited and not widespread.
The foundation stock of the Raas breed is a landrace of domestic cat native to Raas Island, which is located east of the bigger Madura Island and forms part of the Raas District of Sumenep Regency in East Java, Indonesia. The island covers approximately 38.9 square kilometres and serves as the administrative centre of the district, which also includes several smaller surrounding islands.
