Most pet cats are of mixed descent and are wonderful companions. However, some families may want to explore the possibility of a purebred cat. Although the popularity and number of registered purebred cats change over time, many of the breeds discussed here have remained popular for quite some time. More recent additions, such as the ragdoll and sphynx, have enjoyed substantial popularity since they joined the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) registration list about eight years ago. According to the CFA, the 10 most frequently registered breeds in the United States for 2010 were: Persian, Maine coon, exotic, Siamese, ragdoll, Abyssinian, Birman, American shorthair, Oriental, and sphynx. All make wonderful companion animals, but each have unique qualities that make them suitable for certain types of people and households.
Persian
The Persian (shown above) remains the top registered breed for its unique appearance, with a flat face, long and luxurious coat, and very gentle nature. This breed comprises about 50 percent of all purebred cats registered in this country. Persians are named for their country of origin, Persia (Iran), and are widely popular around the world. Their trademark long hair and flattened muzzles give them a unique appearance. They make wonderful family pets and are generally serene in nature, are very affectionate toward their owners, and make wonderful apartment companions. Members of this breed have shown a high incidence of feline polycystic kidney disease, so care should be taken when selecting a Persian for breeding.
Maine Coon
The Maine coon is a larger cat, with a long coat that allows it to easily withstand harsh, cold, and wet climates – not unlike its state of origin. Its coat is shaggy but silky, and it sports a bushy tail. Maine coons are known as highly intelligent and a good family cat that is able to do well with kids and dogs alike. Health problems, such as feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia, are seen in this breed, but screening methods can help to reduce the frequency of such problems.
Exotic Shorthair
The exotic shorthair breed resembles a Persian but is smaller and has shorter fur (sometimes called “a Persian in pajamas”). It is relatively quiet with respect to meowing and enjoys the company of its human family. The exotic shorthair is a breed of cat with the unique look of a Persian but with less grooming required. These cats have a stockier-type body, and like the Persian breed from which they are derived, they also have a high incidence of developing Feline polycystic kidney disease.
Siamese
Arguably the oldest breed of cat, the Siamese is a striking breed with a very slender build, pointed face, and a reputation for being very “talkative.” Originating from Thailand (Siam), these cats are very people oriented and need a good amount of stimulation or play time. They are reported to be “doglike” in their need to play and interact with human companions. Though the coat color can vary, the quintessential Siamese has a lighter body and face, with darker “points” on the tip of the ears, nose, tail, and feet. Blue eyes are favored over other colors but are not required for registry.
Ragdoll
The ragdoll breed of cat is fairly new, developed by a single breeder in California in the 1960s. The name comes from the tendency for the cats to go limp when being picked up, like a doll. The original cats from which this breed was created were a combination of Birman, Angora, Persian, and Siamese. They are fairly large cats, with a soft, long coat. The color point pattern is most common, with blue eyes preferred. They are also known as “floor cats” because they tend not to jump or climb onto high surfaces, preferring instead to stay on the ground. Their very relaxed and docile natures make them wonderful lap cats.
Abyssian
The Abyssian, sometimes called the Abys, is another old breed, known for its expressive eyes and intelligence. It has a medium build and a characteristic brownish, sandy-colored coat. Though there is some question as to whether the breed originated in Ethiopia or India, the modern breed was developed in Egypt. It enjoys the company of people and is a good playmate. It’s not as much as a lap cat and needs attention. Abyssians prefer to play and explore their environment. The short, silky coat makes grooming easy.
Birman
The Birman originated from Burma, and they are sometimes known as the “temple cats” based on a legend that monks kept these cats as their companions. They do make wonderful household companions, which may have kept their legend of being companions to Burmese monks alive. Birmans are born white, but they develop their characteristic color point pattern as they age. However, their paws remain white. Also, their eyes are always blue. They are relatively stocky, have medium-length fur, and tend to have Roman noses. Birmans have a gentle nature and do well as a lap cat, but they can be curious as well.
American Shorthair
The American shorthair is the quintessential American cat, with a medium build and a variety of coat colors. It was previously known as the domestic shorthair, but the name was changed in 1966 to reflect the country of origin. Created from British cats, the American shorthair was a working cat, and many retain their hunting instincts. They are affectionate cats and are known for their relaxed nature and sociality.
Oriental Breed
The Oriental breed is derived from the Siamese but comes in more coat colors. It has a slender, but muscular body, with a very short coat. The Oriental's ears are prominent, giving it an expressive face. This breed can have almost any coat color (except color point); the diversity of coat colors is unsurpassed by other breeds. These cats have a curious and affectionate temperment and they bond very closely with their owners. They can be vocal and do need exercise and stimulation to keep them active and happy.
Sphynx
Last but not least is the sphynx. As exotic as its name, the sphynx is actually a Canadian breed, derived from hairless kittens in which a mutation caused the animals to not have normal fur but a type of hair called vellus hair. Because of the lack of fur, they are susceptible to cold and will cuddle with people and other animals for warmth. Their skin can come in a solid or patched pattern. They do have a slender build but a more pronounced abdomen, referred to as a pot belly. Though furless, regular maintenance is needed to manage the buildup of skin oils, especially in their ears. They are also sensitive to the sun and can get sunburned. Regular maintenance and attention to their special skin needs are required.
No matter which breed you choose, whether one of the most registered breeds, a rare type, or a mixed breed, cats make wonderful companion animals for almost any household. Most indoor cats live an average of 14 to 16 years, with many living up to 20 years or more, so choosing the right breed and the right individual cat is especially important. Taking the time to decide on the qualities, maintenance needs, and type of personality that fits your household best will ensure that you and your cat will have a long and happy relationship. For more information on cat breeds visit the Cat Fancier's Association. The CFA recognizes 41 breeds of cats.
Daniela Sharma, Ph.D. - Rutgers University
