York Chocolate
A rich chocolate-coated American farm cat known for its playful, people-loving nature.
The York Chocolate originated in 1983 on a farm in New York State when Janet Chiefari's farm cat produced a distinctive chocolate-coloured kitten. Selective breeding produced a consistent semi-longhaired cat in rich chocolate and lavender tones. York Chocolates are energetic, curious, and thrive on companionship. Though never widely recognised by major registries before becoming effectively extinct, dedicated breeders are working to revive the breed.
Key facts
| Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Weight | 8–14 lbs |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years |
| Energy | Medium-High |
| Vocality | Medium |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles in the semi-long coat |
| Shedding | Medium |
| With children | ●●●●○ |
|---|---|
| With other pets | ●●●●○ |
| For beginners | ●●●●○ |
| Apartment life | ●●●○○ |
Pros & cons
✓ What's great
- Unusually striking chocolate coat
- Warm, people-oriented personality
- Good with children and other pets
- Adaptable to various home sizes
✗ Things to know
- Very rare — hard to find reputable breeders
- Semi-long coat requires regular grooming
- Limited genetic diversity due to rarity
Ideal owner
A York Chocolate may suit you well if you:
- Are a first-time cat owner looking for a forgiving, adaptable breed
- Have children or a busy, sociable household
- Already have dogs or other cats at home
A York Chocolate may not suit you if you:
- Have significant cat allergies
Health considerations
Like all breeds, York Chocolates can be predisposed to certain conditions. A reputable breeder will screen for these, and regular vet check-ups help catch issues early.
- Generally robust; breed is being revived so long-term health data is limited
Is a York Chocolate right for you?
The best way to find out if a York Chocolate suits your lifestyle is to take the What Cat? breed quiz — it weighs your living space, schedule, household, and preferences against all 68 breeds in our encyclopedia.
Frequently asked questions
Is a York Chocolate a good cat for first-time owners?
Yes — York Chocolates are an excellent choice for first-time cat owners. They are adaptable and forgiving, with a temperament described as: playful, social, and curious — an energetic lap cat in a chocolate coat.
Are York Chocolates good for apartments?
York Chocolates can manage in apartments with the right setup — climbing structures, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions to meet their activity needs.
Are York Chocolates good with children?
York Chocolates are generally excellent with children. They are patient, tolerant of handling, and social enough to enjoy the energy of family life including young children.
Are York Chocolates hypoallergenic?
York Chocolates are not specifically hypoallergenic and produce standard levels of Fel d 1, the main cat allergen. If allergies are a concern, consider breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, or Devon Rex.
Does a York Chocolate suit your lifestyle?
Take the free 18-question What Cat? quiz to find out — and get a full ranked list of breeds matched to your real life.
Take the free quiz →Further reading: York Chocolate on Wikipedia