Busok Cat, an Indigenous Indonesian Cat Breed

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Busok Cat is an indigenous Indonesian cat breed known as an endemic breed of Raas Island, Sumenep Regency, Madura. It is also known by three names: Busok Cat, Raas Cat, and Madura Cat.

Physically, the Busok Cat has several distinctive features that set it apart from domestic cats. It has a relatively large body, with a head that tends to be square at the top and tapers toward the chin. Its nose is medium-sized.

Another distinctive feature is its pointed, upright ears. The Busok Cat is also known for its solid bluish-gray coat, which has a thicker texture than that of most domestic cats. Its tail is another unique characteristic, as it curves or bends at the tip.

The Busok Cat has long been part of the lives of the people of Raas Island. In the 1990s, the cat was reportedly given as a souvenir to special guests visiting Madura. However, as the Busok Cat became increasingly rare in its natural habitat, giving the cats away as souvenirs was eventually prohibited.

The people of Raas Island also play an important role in preserving the Busok Cat and maintaining the purity of the breed. One of the measures taken is restricting the cats from being taken off the island. Under certain circumstances, Busok Cats that are allowed to leave the island must first be sterilized.

The Busok Cat has also attracted international attention. It is reportedly the first Indonesian cat breed to receive recognition from the World Cat Federation (WCF) on November 10, 2022. The recognition highlights Indonesia's local cat breed with its distinctive characteristics.

The Busok Cat is part of Indonesia's rich biodiversity. As its population is considered rare and its natural habitat is limited to Raas Island, conservation efforts are important to ensure that this distinctive Madurese cat is preserved and can be known by future generations.