Linda shares, in part:
"My sleeping cat has a velvet snout and ears. It does not have any ID. I just can't seem to find any example like this in books or online. What do think of this? Many thanks for your help!"
Steiff produced a great number of "sleeping" style animals during the 1950's through the 1970's. These included a baby lion, tiger, panda bear, fox, Zotty bear, Siamese cat, Cocker Spaniel, seal, and elephant, among others. They were all prone in position and referred to as "floppy" or "cosy" animals. Most were made in two standard sizes, 17 and 28 cm; all were stuffed with soft foam. Each animal "sleeping eyes". All of these delightful bedtime companions were simplified versions of well-known Steiff animal designs. The baby lion and tiger are pictured here on the left.

1. It is possible that this version was made with velvet early on to save on mohair - as mohair was still relatively rare and hard to get post war until the early 1950's when the fabric factories were in full swing again.
2. It is also possible that this was a sample or a trial of this pattern, to keep it consistent in materials and design with the regular jointed Kitty already in the line.
3. It is also possible that this model was made early on with a velvet muzzle and ears, but because velvet tends to get dirty easily and is impossible to wash - and this product was designed as a play and bedtime animal - that the material was changed to a more surface washable option.
So what's the real story behind this meow-mixup? Unfortunately, only Linda's cat knows for sure!
Steiffgal hopes this discussion on this unusual sleeping Steiff cat has been a relaxing bedtime story for you.
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