J. Anne Helgren
J. Anne Helgren
Contributor
BIOGRAPHY

J. Anne Helgren is the author of six books: Abyssinian Cats, A Complete Pet Owner’s Manual; Himalayan Cats: A Complete Pet Owner’s Manual; Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds; It’s Showtime (co-authored); Communicating with Your Cat; and Rex Cats: A Complete Pet Owner’s Manual.  Her books have received Certificates of Excellence from the Cat Writers’ Association, which she's been a member of since 1993, and won CWA’s top award, the Muse Medallion. She has also written for assorted magazines.  

Ms. Helgren has served as an editorial consultant on cats for Barron’s Educational Series, Weldon Owen Publishing, and Dorling Kindersley Limited. She was a writing instructor for the Long Ridge Writers’ Group for more than ten years. 

Born in Southern California, Ms. Helgren earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from San Jose State University. She now lives in Northern California with her husband and their family of felines. 

Primary Contributions (2)
domestic cats
Cat, (Felis catus), domesticated member (felid) of the family Felidae. The family is generally divided between cats from the subfamily Pantherinae, which roar (including lions, tigers, and leopards), and cats from the subfamily Felinae, which purr instead (including cougars, bobcats, and domestic…
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Publications (6)
Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds
Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds (April 2013)
By J. Anne Helgren
Updated with the latest information on all recognized feline breeds, this valuable reference source includes a survey of feline history and evolution, a detailed description of the attributes that make a purebred cat, a summary of feline genetics, and an in-depth discussion of conformation, color, and coat. The breed profiles follow, with each profile accompanied by color photos and a bar graph-style at-a-glance summary of the breed's characteristics.Approximately 45 breeds are profiled,...
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Complete Pet Owner's Manual: Himalayan Cats
Complete Pet Owner's Manual: Himalayan Cats (October 2006)
By J. Anne Helgren
These docile, heavy-coated felines are closely related to the Persian breed. Their gentle nature makes them perfect as indoor companions. Books in the comprehensive and popular Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals series advise on feeding, health care, housing, and all other important aspects of responsible pet ownership. Each title is individually written from first page to last by a pet trainer, veterinarian, or other pet-care specialist. All Complete Pet Owner's Manuals are...
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Communicating with Your Cat
Communicating with Your Cat (October 1999)
By J. Anne Helgren

An expert in feline physiology and behavior offers cat owners an approach to understanding their cats so that they can train them effectively. She discusses ways to interpret a cat's body and vocal language, and presents an overview of feline learning patterns. She also points out how cats respond to efforts at behavior modification. Filled with instructive full-color photos!

It's Show-Time!: And Here's Everything Cat Fanciers Need to Know About Shows
It's Show-Time!: And Here's Everything Cat Fanciers Need to Know About Shows (1998)
By Phil Maggitti, J. Anne Helgren

More people than ever are falling in love with pedigreed cats--and many proud owners are expressing their enthusiasm by turning to competitive showing. This book provides solid information and sound advice from two experts who offer instruction on every aspect of showing, from choosing a breed to understanding showing and scoring procedures.

Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds
Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds (October 1997)
By J. Anne Helgren
Here is a handsomely illustrated descriptive directory of virtually all major cat breeds available to prospective owners in America--a "must-read" reference source for cat lovers and breeders everywhere. Opening chapters include a survey of feline history and evolution, a detailed description of the qualities that make a purebred, a summary of feline genetics, and a discussion of conformation, color, and coat. Following are alphabetically arranged profiles of 40 different breeds, from Abyssinian...
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Abyssinian Cats: Everything about Acquisition, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, Health Care, and Breeding (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals)
Abyssinian Cats: Everything about Acquisition, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, Health Care, and Breeding (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals) (1995)
By J. Anne Helgren

This comprehensive manual describes the breed, then offers advice on buying from a breeder and acclimatising the Abyssinian to your household. Also included is detailed information on feeding, grooming and exhibiting.