Fluffy and hairless, short-legged and long-legged, tailless and decorated with a plume – more than 100 breeds have already received official recognition (according to 2022), but literally every day new and new breeds of cats appeared.
Short-haired cat breeds
Abyssinian Cat
This cat breed is one of the oldest. The Ethiopian Beast (it’s also called) is a cat of rare intelligence and stubbornness. The breed is famous for its exclusive colors – wild, red (sorrel or cinnamon), blue and fawn are common to the Abyssinian. Ideally, each hair of her coat has a triple ticking. Pictures of these cats’ – descendants of Zula, the first Abyssinian, brought to Europe – don’t convey all the wild charm of the breed.
Australian Mist
The Australian smoky cat is the breed that can boldly be called unique. Born in the homeland of the kangaroo, in Australia, the Australian Mist took the best from its closest relatives – the Abyssinian cat, the Burmesian cat and from simple non-breed cats. The best thing, first of all, is expressed in color. It is a spotted coat or a marbled-spotted coat with a general tickd tabby background. Outside of Australia this breed practically can’t be found.
American Wirehair
Cats dressed in “wire coats” differ from American short-haired cats (about them – below) not even in the quality of the coat, but in its appearance.
Being soft to the touch, it seems prickly in appearance and creates the illusion of a wire. Often the “wire effect” is not expressed throughout the pelt, but is concentrated along the backbone and tail.
American Shorthair Cat
Some cat breeds can be called long-livers: and the American Shorthair cat is just one of them. The average lifespan of an American Shorthair cat is 15-20 years! This popular breed was recognized by Americans back in the 17th century, but was officially introduced only in 1904 thanks to Buster Brown’s cat.
Today, Brown’s descendants have conquered not only America (there are already 100 specialized nurseries) but also Japan, which is keeping up with American breeders.
American Bobtail
All cat breeds have a history. Some breeds have a short history and are usually artificially bred, while others have a history stretching back several centuries. Such as the American Bobtail. These animals were called not yet cats, but domesticated lynxes. Indeed, if you look at pictures of the American short-tailed Bobtail, you’ll clearly see something lynx-like in it!
American Curl
If we compare popular cat breeds with pictures of rare cat breeds, then the difference, sometimes, is only visible in details. But these details are decisive! For example, American Curl kittens have an important detail like the ears twisted backwards. Such a curl is formed not from the moment of kitten’s birth, but only by the age of 4 months.
Anatolian Cat (or Turkish Shorthair)
Representatives of this breed led a rather tempestuous life in the Armenian Highlands, on the territory around Lake Van in ancient times. Therefore, their genotype is closest to the “wild type”. It can be seen (among other things) in the fact that cats of this breed do not meow at all, imitating their wild counterparts. They make “bird” noises, which is why Anatolics are also called “chirping” cats.
Arabian Mau
These cats are elegant and graceful, long-legged and big-eared. The desert cats have remained a good hunter even nowadays. Those who get such a pet should know that these cats have no restraint in food. So, to prevent the Arabian Mau become obese, you should especially make sure that the cat doesn’t overeat.
Bengal Cat
The history of the Bengal breed has a happy ending. Bangkok purrs were on the verge of extinction. One of these unfortunates was taken to America by geneticist Jean Mill. The cat was named Malaysia. She liked America, though she didn’t show it off. She demonstrated aggressive disposition in any possible way. Only during heat she let the neighbor’s black cat get close to her. The product of their love became a Bengal kitten itself. The description of Bengals is similar to the jaguar’s – the same predatory coloring, the same wild disposition.
Bombay Cat
The little black panther has been in the process of breeding for 23 years! The large eyes of these cats are blue at birth, then turn gray and finally take on a yellow-orange hue. You should know that the Bombey likes to chat, but has a quiet voice. Such talkativeness doesn’t bother loving owners.
Brazilian Shorthair Cat
We are accustomed to the fact that cat breeds’ pictures show us something unusual and unique. The Brazilian Shorthair cat stands apart from other aristocrats, as it cannot be proud of its unique appearance. Yes, the Brazilian seems to look like any outdoor cat. But would any backyard cat have the same piercing almond-shaped eyes and the same wedge-shaped head?
British Shorthair Cat
Strong, kind, brave, agile, and skillful – that’s all about the British, one of the most popular breeds in the world. However, the owners of British cats all as one noted their independent temperament. So, the British are called “cats for businessmen”. If you work a lot, if your day begins with a conference call at 7 am and ends with drawing up the quarterly report at 7 pm, then the British Shorthair cat – your perfect pet option. But keep in mind – Brits are afraid of the cold. So no drafts or cold floors!
Burmese Cat
The Burma came from… Burma. According to the legend, a pair of Europeans received two kittens of this breed as a gift. It was a gratitude for their help in defending the monastery from attack. That happened in the middle of the 20th century. And in the 21st century, it was noticed that short-haired cats similar to Burmese cats live in Tibet. They have little fur, but lots of well-developed muscles and very expressive eyes.
Burmilla
If you look at pictures of cats and kittens of different breeds, you can guess how much effort breeders have spent to develop new standards. This does not refer to the Burmilla! The breed was bred completely by accident. Just two lonelinesses met (crossed out) Persian Chinchilla and Purple Burmese cat had 4 silver kittens, which happy breeders hurried to put in the cat’s catalog.
Havana
So narrow, agile and showy, the Havana loves to show itself off, attracting all the attention of others. Adult cats of this breed are characterized by a bright brown coat. Havanas are typical extroverts.
Devon Rex
Devon Rexes are curly like Cornish Rexes, but have slightly different body features. They are often called aliens or elves for those traits. And you know what? Deservedly so! Rarely a cat can claim to be as intelligent as a Devon Rex. They are extraordinarily playful, yet wise and affectionate. Their owners can wake up at night because the Devon Rex is simply kissing them. Devons also are able to smile.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau differs from all cats in having an “M” pattern above the eyes and a “W” pattern at the level of the ears (it is called a “scarab”). In addition, the Egyptian Mau wears makeup – clear lines that emphasize the eyes and pass under the eyes and along the cheekbones. The most common coat color of this ancient breed is silver.
Korat
Have you seen a Russian Blue Cat? The Korat is amazingly similar to it, the only difference is the quality of the fur. And also, when a cat of this breed turns 4 years old, as a gift from a kind fairy, the Korat receives emerald green eyes. In combination with a smoky coat, it makes a memorable impression.
Cornish Rex
Representatives of the Cornish Rex breed can be called astrakhan cats, because their hair, devoid of terminal wool, is curled in the very dense waves. In general, the second word of the name, rex, is common for all cats with wavy fur. This trait appeared as a result of genetic mutation, and breeders have set it in place. Today we have the curly-haired Cornish, which, being an exclusively domestic cat, doesn’t like drafts. But loves to nibble. Because of the special structure of the paws, Cornish Rexes do not remove their claws completely. So, the owner must often perform a trimming manicure for the Cornish.
Manx
There were cats on the Isle of Man that had no tail. They lived until cat geneticists noticed the lack of a tail. Having noticed that, they began to form Maine inhabitants into a breed. And they succeeded. It must be said that not all Maine cats are born completely tailless. There are four classifications of Maine tails, ranging in size from 0 to XL.
Minskin
Minskins are one of the rarest cat breeds today, also called the “hobbit cat”. The dwarf cat has short legs, a delicate rexoid fur coat and suede skin. Fans of Minskins claim that it is a very sociable kitty that is a perfect pet for travelers.
German Rex
The German or Prussian Rex is one of the first curly-haired breeds. The German differs from Cornish and Devon cats by its massive body and large muzzle features. The parents of the German beauty are Russian blue Cat and Angora Cat breeds.
Russian Blue Cat
The Russian breed doesn’t leave the ratings of the most famous cat breeds. Its unusual coloring has already become the calling card of the Russian Blue. The Russian Blue is especially loved in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. The plush coat and excellent rat-catcher qualities allow the Russian Blue to feel equally well both in the apartment and in a private house.
Savannah
A large cat with wild spots and a predatory gaze is a hybrid of a domestic kitty and an African serval. Savannah resembles a wild animal also in its manners. They are absolutely fearless, aren’t afraid of dogs or water. And at the same time these cats adore free walking. It is also noteworthy to mention their amazing, literally, canine loyalty to the owner.
Singapura
How did a purebred cat become an aristocrat cat? Elementary, meow! To do this, cats had to live on the Asian streets without a roof over the head, to fall into the eyes of American tourists. So, the cat takes a chance to go with them to the unknown America. Today the Singapora is a small cat weighing up to 2 kilograms, either sable brown or ivory colored.
Scottish Straight
The Scottish straight-eared cat has a round face, a graceful body, and a long tail. Scottish straights can’t tolerate familiarity, but at the same time they are friendly and graceful enough.
Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are also Scottish, but lop-eared. Their ancestor – a Scottish cat Susie – for some reason originally had unique ears. This distinctive feature she passed to her offspring. Otherwise, the Folds are very similar to the Straights
Sokoke Forest Cat
The Kenyan Forest Cat’s ancestors are Hadzondzo (wild cats of Kenya) themselves. From the Hadzondzo, the Kenya Wildcat inherited tassels on the ears, a black tip of the tail and the ability to change the color of the eyes depending on the mood. So, if you see a Sokoke’s eyes blazing red, run!
Toyger
Toyger is a pure design project. It is so nice to see a wild carnivore in a mini format in the interior! The perfect tiger has a “butterfly” on its forehead and circular markings on its cheeks. The toy tiger is not yet a fully formed breed. It is quite possible that in a few years tigers will be even more predatory-looking cats.
Ceylon Cat
The Ceylon Cat is unique just because it is the only Italian cat breed. The not very long tail is compensated by very long claws, which the Ceylon Cat on occasion can bury into the body of the supposed offender.
Chausie
Unlike Italy, America is famous for launching and releasing new cat breeds into the world. Chauzy was based on a reed cat and a house cat. The offspring turned out to be healthy, large, tall, and adopted the exterior of the wild cat. It turned out to be valued by fans.
Chartreux
It is said that France is a country of immigrants. This statement also applies to cats. We don’t know exactly whether the first gray cats came to Chartres from Syria or Iran, but it was the French who honed the breed like a large diamond. The result was a real diamond – a large gray Chartreuse cat with honey-amber eyes.
Exotic Shorthair
Exotics are an artificially created breed, which, obviously, resembles Persian Cats fallen into the hands of a hairdresser. Because of their short hair they are even jokingly called “Persian Cats for the lazy”. Another difference between an exotic short-haired and long-haired is the naive and even childish muzzle appearance. It is impossible to resist the charm of this cat.
Japanese Bobtail
For some reason in the Middle Ages in Japan they didn’t like cat’s tails. Where else could the dark spirits live if not in them? Fearing the influence of evil forces, the Japanese tried to choose a cat with a shorter tail. So the Japanese short-haired Bobtail is a light creation, since its tail is only 12 centimeters long and furthermore is twisted!
Semi-long-haired cat breeds
Balinese Cat
These cats never grow to be giants, they are usually small or very small. The Balinese were born in Thailand, but that doesn’t prevent them from communicating with the whole world. Such an open cat, eager to love and to be loved, is still difficult to find!
Cymric Cat
The Cymric Cat is originally from Canada. Some people consider it a long-haired version of the Manx. But Canadians are sure – they have their own breed which has the right to exist! Stocky, muscular and rounded are the main characteristics of the Cymric breed. They are also trainable and easy to bathe, as these cats absolutely adore water and water procedures.
Kurilian Bobtail
This is the Russian version of the short-tailed cat. The pompous tail, frost-resistance and dog-like habits are the unofficial standard of the Kurilian Bobtail breed. The tail length of each representative of the breed is different, traditionally ranging from 2 to 8 spines. The absence of a tail at all is a disqualifying attribute.
LaPerm
Rex-breed with wavy hair. The LaPerm is both American and Oriental blood. In addition to curly hair, breeders note the silent nature of LaPerms. These are not those cats that wake you up in the morning with bass-like cries, but those that pull you out of sleep with affectionate rubbing.
Munchkin
A grinning cat is a cat of the Munchkin breed. Its legs are three times shorter than its body length. These cats sometimes behave like kangaroos – sit on the short hind legs and prop up a body with a strong tail.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a native breed of the United States. Because of the color, size of the body and size of the tail, farm cats reminded Americans of raccoons, so they began to be called raccoon cats. By the way, the first official Maine Coon was called Captain Jenks of the Marine Cavalry. It was he who represented the breed at exhibitions in 1861.
Neva Masquerade Cat
Point color and bright blue eyes are the portrait of a feline beauty queen. A little from a Siberian cat, a little from Siamese – we get a lot (5 kilos) of Neva Masquerade. Mask on the face gave this breed a carnival name. The owners also note that the Neva Masquerade is absolutely not vindictive and completely ignores the banal “kitty-kitty”. Can only be called by name and patronymic “madam”!
Nebelung
Nebelungs are still very rare, although they are considered a long-haired version of the popular Russian blue cat. They get their name from the Nebels (German: Nebel – fog) of the medieval German epic “The Song of the Nibelungs”.
Norwegian Forest Cat
This is the official Norwegian breed. It is believed that the Norwegian Forest Cat is descended from… the Angora, which was brought to the severe country by travelers. The pampered cat had no choice but to start hunting, fishing and fighting for survival. It succeeded and today the Norwegian Forest Cat is a cat that fears neither water nor cold because of its “double” fur. And cats can get along with any descendant of the Vikings.
Oriental Cat
It is said that Oriental cats have a nasty voice. It’s difficult to argue with this statement, we can only be glad for the endurance of the oriental cat’s character. Graceful, sophisticated cat speaks only on the substance. By the way, the myth that Orientals spoil curtains has no reason. Yes, they like to swing at curtains, but only at a young age. As cats get older, they choose to entertain themselves in other ways.
Pixie-bob
The short-tailed elf resembles a lynx. The breed was artificially bred in 1995. The heavy skeleton, powerful paws, short tail and predatory spots confirm that the breeding has been successful! The good news is that the artificially bred Pixie-bob is very healthy and practically free of hereditary diseases.
Ragdoll
Charming kittens get such a nickname because of the low muscle tone, common to all Ragdoll Cats. These cats can’t stand solitude, so leaving them at home during the vacation – bad option. But on the leash with the owner they feel perfectly well even in the car.
Birman
Only the sacred cat breed is characterized by a special Burmese color – white paws with a point color of the long coat. The sacred cat of Burma with dignity wears white gloves and socks. Moreover, Birmans’ eyes are exclusively blue: the color of cloudless summer sky. The breed was brought to life by a famous billionaire and since then it’s believed the Sacred Birman has especially good manners.
Siberian Cat
The Siberian appeared and developed in the territory of the Urals and in Siberia. Naturally, the climate influenced its features. Wool of a Siberian cat doesn’t let moisture and doesn’t get wet. This cat easily tolerates frosts and at the same time for a long period remains a kitten. Siberian Cats become adults only at the age of five years. Many people like this breed for the fact that it’s perhaps the only one among semi-long-haired cats that is considered hypoallergenic.
Snowshoe
Snowshoe was born in an American cattery. Graceful kittens have a glorious disposition and charming appearance. Not all kittens in a litter turn out perfect, but those who take the best qualities of Snowshoe become the benchmark of feline beauty.
Turkish Angora
It can be said about this breed – is acknowledged by everyone! Angora cats, brought into the world from the Byzantine city of Angora in the 16th century, conquered everybody so much that for a long time Europeans called all white cats Angora cats. By the way, there is a program on Angora cat protection in Turkey up to the present day, as it acquired the national treasure of the country. Turkish Angora is also a long-living cat. 13, 15, 20 years – this is the norm for it.
Turkish Van
British journalists took two Van breed kittens out of Turkey in the middle of the last century. The kittens were named Van Atilla (boy) and Van Guseli Iskenderun (girl). Van Guseli amazed the connoisseurs with her coat of red and white Van color. Nowadays only classical red-white/cream-white Van colors are accepted or black-white/blue-white, tortoise-white Van colors are also possible.
Highland Fold
A Scottish longhair cat appeared quite recently and immediately had to assert the right to be a breed. Breeders bewildered – if the pedigree includes only Fold, Straight and British, where do longhair kittens come from? However, the Highland Fold by its existence dispelled all doubts – long-haired Scottish to be!
Long-haired cat breeds
Himalayas
The Himalayan colorpoint cat is very similar to the Persian cat, but the Persians never have been colorpoint. Another difference from the Persian cat is that the Himalayan cat is more agile and playful. Long-haired cats are bored of being a decoration. So, they will gladly run after a sunny bunny.
Persian Cat
Oh, the oldest and most popular breed! Yes, a creature descended from Shaherizade’s cat should be treated with special reverence. The snub-nosed cat snags his nose at any occasion and is not very fond of fuss around it. There are about 100 varieties of Persian cat color according to the standard, but all of these cats are similar in body type – they are strong and massive.
Bald cat breeds
Donskoy Cat
You may be surprised, but the breed is considered indigenous. The kitten Varvara, picked up by a kind man on one of the streets of Rostov-on-Don himself, laid the history of the breed. The hairlessness of the Don breed is divided into four types: naked (or plasticine), flock, velours and brushes. Most often, rubber (naked) cats are holo-bred.
Canadian Sphynx
Canadian Sphynxes don’t have holo-births. And there are no absolute bald cats among them. But there are kittens, who in their youth can easily jump 1 meter in height, and after growing up – almost 1.5 meters! It is noted that Canadian Sphynxes have very good memory and can be easily trained.
Peterbald
Long muzzle, large flared ears, flat cheekbones and elegant body on high legs – this is a Peterbald cat. According to the types of skin specialists distinguish: brash, brash-point, velour, flock, naked Peterbald and straight-haired variation.
Ukrainian Levkoy
Not only naked, but also a lop-eared cat! Natural cats lovers pleasure! This breed began to be bred in 2000, and the first representative of the Ukrainian Levkoy was born in 2004. His name was Levkoy Primero. It’s possible to argue about the cuteness of this breed, but it’s impossible not to agree with the Ukrainian Levkoys’ spacey and harmonic nature. Many people believe that it is the cat of the future.
Here we have listed all the cat breeds that you needed to know about. Share in the comments whichever breed is your favorite.