[Dwnijzhd]

You may not realise but there are actually many cat breeds out there. The average house cat these days is a "mixed breed" or "moggy" as they are known, but there are hundreds of different specific breeds from different parts of the world, each with their own unique looks and personality traits. If you are thinking about getting a cat then please do consider going to your local rescue center and giving an unwanted kitty a new home, but you may also be looking for something specific, or just interested in what different breeds there are. This is a very basic overview designed to give you an idea of some of the cats that are commonly bred and how they differ. Comment and let us know what type of cat you have and if she's a moggy - does she look or act like any of these breeds?



Abyssinian

One of the oldest known cat breeds, depicted in sculptures and paintings of ancient Egypt. Egyptians believed that cats were the descendant of Bastet, the cat Goddess and many cats were worshipped and revered. Abyssians are a lively and active cat, very people orientated, intelligent, affectionate and loyal.



Bengal

The bengal is a very unique looking cat and very special. It is quite different as a "breed", because it is a cross-breed between the domestic cat and the asian leopard cat (which is not a domesticated species). They were cross bred originally in the 60s, and then later in the 70s by a geneticist who had been using a group of cross-breeds in a study on feline Leuakaemia. It wasn't until fairly recently - 1984 - that Bengal was actually recognised by the International Cat Association as a domestic breed. To be domesticated, the bengal must be four generations or more from the Asian Leopard Cat.

The bengal is a medium to large shorthaired cat, muscular with long and sturdy bodies. They are well known for being mischievous and boisterous, very active and playful and can be a handful. But they are also very loving and people orientated - some might call them needy! They are confident and bold but will need a lot of attention and can be very noisy!



Burmese

The burmese cat has golden eyes and silky fur and have been a recognised breed since the 1930s, but not present in the UK until 1949. This is a medium sized breed but with a muscular and compact frame, making it heavier than they look. They are famous for having sleek, glossy and silky coats. Burmese are intelligent and adapt well to a busy active household and a very affectionate.



Exotic

The "exotic" cat is often described as a short-haired Persian. They have a distinctive persian look, with round faces, round eyes and round bodies! They still have a thick and plush coat that may require some grooming, but are classed as short haired, with far less work than grooming a persian and unlikely to mat. They are a very quiet cat known for being peaceful, placid, loyal and sweet and although they can be playful, they are well known as a breed that often make good lap cats.



Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is North America's only native long-haired breed and were traditionally used as a working cat - keeping the mice and rat populations down. They are a large breed cat with a rugged appearance but an easy going and gentle personality. They are great hunters and can survive even the cold winters of New England. They are very intelligent and seem to enjoy working and learning, with owners teaching them how to fetch and it's not uncommon to see them walk on a harness and leash! They enjoy the company of people and other animals, but will need some grooming.



Persian

Persians are a very distinct breed of long haired cat. It's very important if getting this breed that you be prepared to look after their coat, as they can be prone to getting matting problems if not given a helping hand daily. You also want to keep an eye out for hairballs and they may need the occasional bath to keep the coat clean and healthy. They are a heavy bodied chunky cat with a large round face and eyes. They are a very calm breed and adapt well to an indoor environment. They're very calm and quiet and affectionate too.



Siamese

The Siamese is a striking cat originally from Thailand (Siam). They are a beautiful and elegant cat with a very inquisitive personality and a playful and loving nature. They are famous for having a distinctive cry and are keen communicators. Their eyes are deep blue and very striking. This is a stunning cat that will be a great member of a family and is very affectionate - but be prepared to be talked to a lot!



Somali

Somali's are often described as looking like a fox, with large ears and a bushy tail. This is a well proportioned muscular cat with a medium length coat that requires little grooming, but may require a small amount of attention. Somali's a very intelligent witha lot of personality. They're affectionate and playful and known to be very vocal. There are 28 different colours of Somali's recognised, so a lot of different colours to choose from!



Tonkinese

The tonkinese was originally created by crossing the Burmese and Siamese breeds together and blend the best of both worlds personality and looks wise, creating a beautiful cat that is playful, intelligent and affectionate with the stunning point coat style of the Siamese.

There are plenty more out there not covered, and we would love to see your cat pictures or hear about your breed of cat! Which is your favourite?

[nushentelve]

Burmese

The burmese cat has golden eyes and silky fur and have been a recognised breed since the 1930s, but not present in the UK until 1949. This is a medium sized breed but with a muscular and compact frame, making it heavier than they look. They are famous for having sleek, glossy and silky coats. Burmese are intelligent and adapt well to a busy active household and a very affectionate.

Burmese are amazing!

[feannigvogten]

What about the ones that are hairless and I think there is one with a naturally short tail? Could you do those too?

[MeeveStesia]

Good read! Maybe a colour guide as well as that's different to a breed guide?