Machine Name
cat
Persian Long Hair
Persian Long Hair
Persian Long Hair

A gorgeous longhair breed with a pansylike face, the Persian looks like a fluff ball but under the coat is a muscular, sturdy body. With her sweet personality, the Persian is a charming pet for all ages. The breed features solid, bicolour, calico and tabby varieties, which include a multitude of colours and patterns. The Persian Solid may be coloured white, blue, black, red, cream, chocolate, and lilac. All have brilliant copper eyes, except the pristine white solid colour, which may be copper, deep blue or a combination of blue and copper. The Persian Bicolour features a combination of colours as well as patterns of tabby. All have brilliant copper eyes, except the silver tabby with white, which may have green or hazel eyes. The Persian Calico has a white coat splashed with vivid patches of red and black. The dilute calico is patched with blue and cream, and chocolate and lilac calicos have patches of chocolate and red or lilac and cream, respectively. The Persian Tabby, known for being extroverted and fun, comes in three patterns, classic, mackerel and patched. This breed requires daily brushing and occasional baths and should strictly be an indoor pet.

DID YOU KNOW? Though the origin of the Persian is not known definitely, the breed is believed to have come from Angora cats from Turkey crossed with other longhair cats from Persia, Afghanistan, Burma, China, and Russia. Cats from these blended lines were imported to Europe in the 1600s.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Calm cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Quiet cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Indoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium to large, with males weighing 4.5 to 6.5 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 4.5 kilograms
Coat
Long, thick, glossy
Temperament
 Affectionate, loyal, sedate
Grooming
 Daily
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Soft, pleasant voice
Personality

Persian Longhair cats are calm and affectionate. They are gentle and are not as active as some shorthair breeds. Generally speaking they do not mind living on their own and are quite content to be an only cat. They are quite content to sit quietly and look pretty.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Turkey and Persia

 

The first documented ancestors of the Persian cat were imported in the 17th century from Persia into Italy, and from Angora (now Ankara), Turkey into France. The Persian cats were grey coated while those from Angora were white. Descendants of these longhaired cats eventually reached Britain in the 19th century. These early Persian cats were quite different from the cats that win shows today: their faces were longer, their ears larger and they had a rangier shape. Over the years selective breeding has produced the stocky body and flat faced appearance that is familiar today. The coat is not just long; it has a very thick undercoat which requires a huge commitment in terms of owner grooming – the cat cannot keep this matt-free on its own.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

While the Persian Longhair cat may be expected to live for about ten to twelve years, it is a breed that is recognised as having a number of health problems. Because the head shape has been shortened and the face flattened, there can be jaw deformities which can lead to dental disease and potential problems with eating and drinking. Small nostrils and a soft palate which is too long can also lead to severe breathing problems. The tear ducts may not follow their natural path and so the eyes run and wet the face constantly – this can lead to skin rashes and sores on the face. The flat nature of face also increases the chances of eye disease. Persians can carry a gene that leads to kidney failure (called autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease) through the development of cysts in the kidney. This condition was found in more than a third of all Persian and Exotic shorthaired cats in the 1990s when screening tests became available. Using screening, breeders are now working to try to eradicate the problem – always ask the breeder to show the PKD certificates for the cats used to produce your kitten. Persian cats may also have an increased incidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the walls of the heart). Like other longhaired cats, Persians are the most likely to develop fungal skin infections, such as ringworm.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Oriental Short Hair
Oriental Short Hair
Oriental Short Hair

The Oriental is a sleek, elegant cat with large, flaring ears and almond-shaped eyes. A playful, spirited breed, the Oriental has a vivacious personality. This people-oriented feline usually forms a close bond with one person. Those who give an Oriental the affection she needs will find she does anything to please them. This is a healthy breed that can live for 15 years or longer.

DID YOU KNOW? Originating in the 1950s, the Oriental was selectively bred from Siamese. The breed has two coat varieties, shorthair and longhair, both of which can appear in litters. The Oriental longhair actually has a medium-length coat and is considered rare.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Small to medium, with males weighing 3 to 4.5 kilograms and females weighing 2 to 3.5 kilograms
Coat
Longhair — medium, fine, silky; shorthair — short, fine, glossy
Temperament
Energetic, affectionate, playful
Grooming
Monthly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Loud
Personality

Like the Siamese, the Oriental cat breed is an intelligent, curious cat that makes its presence known. They love to talk to their human companions and expect a reply. They want to be part of the family and enjoy playing games like fetch with a ball of scrunched up paper. Oriental cats like to be kept amused and do not like to be left alone, so if you are out at work all day, getting another Oriental cat is probably a good idea.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA/Britain

 

The Oriental cat is really a Siamese with a different colour coat and green eyes (except in the case of the Foreign White which has blue eyes). The shape and temperament are exactly the same as the Siamese. The Oriental cat breed was created by crossing Siamese cats with other breeds to produce different colours. Black 'Siamese' had been in existence for a long time but it wasn't until the 1950s that serious efforts were made to breed different colours and the black form is known as the Black Oriental cat. The next Oriental breed to be developed was the Havana, a chocolate colour 'Siamese' (not to be confused with the Havana Brown which is a separate American breed). Selective breeding has since produced many more colours and coat patterns.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Oriental cats can live well into their teens. Although most Oriental Longhair cats live long and healthy lives, there are a number of disorders that seem to be associated with the Oriental cat family - those similar to the Siamese as they are closely related.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Oriental Long Hair
Oriental Long Hair
Oriental Long Hair

Oriental Longhair cats feature a long, lithe and elegant, Siamese-style body with a triangular wedge-shaped head and ears. The coat is long and silky, but unlike the Persian cat, there is no woolly undercoat and coat lies flat against the body and so is officially classified as a semi-longhair. The tail forms a magnificent plume. The range of possible coat colours includes everything from solid colours to smokes, tipped or tabby types. All Oriental Longhair cats have almond-shaped green eyes, except for the whites, which may have green or blue eyes, or be odd-eyed (two different coloured eyes).

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Personality

Like all cats of Oriental type, these cats are lively and companionable. This breed is 'into everything' and always wants to know what's going on. Oriental Longhair cats are very talkative cats that can become bored easily and need plenty of attention for fun and games. These cats crave company, which is something to consider if you are out for most of the day – getting two litter mates may give them some company.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

 

Other Names: : Foreign Longhair, Angora, Madarin, British Angora

 

Oriental Longhair cats were originally imported from Ankara in Turkey in the 19th century and were the first longhaired cats to be brought to Western Europe. The breed disappeared when the more fully coated Persian arrived in the early 1900s. The modern Oriental Longhair cat, has been genetically recreated by breeders in the UK through crosses with Abyssinian cats (for longhair gene) and Siamese cats (for body type). A few of the original cats were taken to the USA where they were bred and are now classified as Turkish Angoras. The Oriental Longhair cat breed was formerly known as the British Angora before being renamed in 2002 by British cat fancies in order to avoid confusion with the Turkish Angora cat breed. In Europe a solid coloured Oriental Longhair cat is known as a Javanese.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Although most Oriental Longhair cats live long and healthy lives, there are a number of disorders that seem to be associated with the Oriental family - those similar to the Siamese cat breed as they are closely related.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Ocicat
Ocicat
Ocicat

The Ocicat is the only spotted domestic breed selectively bred to emulate cats of the wild. This muscular, athletic breed can be trained to play fetch and walk on a leash. A people-devoted feline, the Ocicat loves companionship and doesn’t like being left alone too long. This cat does well with other cats and cat friendly dogs. A healthy breed, the Ocicat may live to be 15 to 18 years old.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1964, Virginia Daly of Berkleg, Mich., experimentally crossed a Siamese with an Abyssinian hoping to produce an Aby-point Siamese. A male kitten in the litter was ivory with golden spots and copper eyes. Daly’s daughter named the breed Ocicat because the kitten, “Tonga,” resembled the spotted wildcat. Tonga was neutered and sold as a pet. A noted geneticist at Georgia University, Dr. Clyde Keeler, wanted to see a domestic cat that mimicked wild species that were becoming extinct. At his request, the breeding of Tonga’s parents was repeated, producing another spotted male, Dalai Dotson, who became the father of the Ocicat breed.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium to large, with males weighing 4 to 7 kilograms and females weighing 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms
Coat
Short, smooth, satiny
Temperament
Confident, active, social
Grooming
Monthly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Talkative
Personality

Although the Ocicat has been bred to look like a wild cat, its temperament does not reflect this. The breed is intelligent and playful, curious and friendly and can be demanding of attention. They prefer, like all active cats, to have company and are very happy with human companions but if the humans are out at work all day having two may help to provide companionship.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA

 

Other Names: : Oci

 

The Ocicat cat breed is a relatively new breed of cat that resulted from some experimental matings in the 1960s in America. Breeders were trying to produce an Abyssinian pointed Siamese but instead produced a kitten with an amazing coat of gold spots on an ivory background. He looked like the wild Ocelot, hence the name Ocicat. American Shorthairs were introduced into the breeding programme, which brought the lovely silver colours and strong musculature and bone. In 1988 the first Ocicats arrived in Britain.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

There are no inherited disorders reported for the Ocicat breed at present.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Norwegian Forest
Norwegian Forest
Norwegian Forest

The Norwegian Forest Cat is gorgeous, having bright emerald green eyes, a long flowing, silky coat, full mane, and magnificent 30.5 centimetre tail. This people-oriented breed is gentle and loving, including to other animals. A hardy, healthy feline that is naturally curious and athletic, the Norwegian Forest Cat is patient and not stressed easily. This breed is slow maturing, reaching full growth in about five years.

DID YOU KNOW? The cat of the Vikings, the Norwegian Forest Cat protected grain stores on land and sea from rodents. It is believed that these cats left their progeny on the shores of North America, explaining the breed’s presence on this continent.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Larger stockier cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Large, with males weighing 4.5 to 7 kilograms and females weighing 3.5 to 5.5 kilograms
Coat
Long, dense, glossy, smooth
Temperament
Sweet, curious, intelligent
Grooming
 Weekly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Moderate
Personality

Norwegian Forest cats love people and thrive on human company. At times they can be very demanding of affection. At other times they appear quite independent. They are used to an outdoor life and are well adapted to roam and hunt outside and are said to be excellent climbers. They can be very rewarding companions as they are extremely friendly and playful. The breed is slow in developing and may not be mature until four years of age.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Scandinavia

 

The Norwegian Forest cat is a breed believed to originate from the shorthair cats brought by the Vikings from Great Britain and longhair cats brought by the Crusaders to Scandinavia, which then mated with local farm and feral cats. The breed's origin in the cold north of Scandinavia has meant that it is well adapted to the cold winters and is rugged and hardy. The best adaptation to the climate is the double coat, which keeps out the wind and the snow and is quick drying. The breed was first recognised in Norway in 1930 and first appeared at cat shows in 1938. Norwegian Forest cats were only exported from Norway in the 1970s.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Norwegian Forest cat seems to be a robust breed with no major inherited problems documented.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Munchkin
Munchkin
Munchkin

The Munchkin cat breed is a medium sized cat with extremely short legs and a long spine. Munchkin cat's movements are described as being like that of a ferret, so it has not the feline grace of longer legged cats. Munchkin cats have a thick body with a well-rounded chest. The breed may have long or short hair. Both varieties have plush, all-weather coats with a silky appearance. The longhair Munchkin has a plumed tail. Munchkin cats can be in any colour or coat pattern and their walnut shaped eyes and can also be any colour.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Indoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Personality

Munchkin cats are sweet and outgoing. Their curiosity and playfulness continue well into adulthood. The Munchkin cat breed is sociable and enjoys company. They can be taught to play fetch and to obey voice commands. While Munchkin cats can leap on to counter tops, many prefer to intelligently find an easier way up. They can also run fast, despite their short legs.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USASeen as the feline equivalent of the Dachshund, this breed has caused controversy in the cat world. The Munchkin cat mutation was discovered in America in 1983 where it was named after the 'little people' in The Wizard of Oz. Shortlegged cats, like the Munchkin cat, were reported in England in the 1930s and in Russia in the 1950s but these breeds were not perpetuated. This breed is not recognised in the UK by the main UK cat fancy association.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The short leggedness of this breed is a deformity that is linked to bone and spinal problems, so it has not been welcomed by all cat associations. Dog breeds with similar conformation are known to have problems with arthritis and it is feared that some will occur in the Munchkin cat breed. As with all cats, Munchkins need vaccinations, parasite control and annual veterinary health checks.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Manx
Manx
Manx

The short, round Manx is known as the sprint car of the cat world due to her quick acceleration and turns. This feline has powerful back legs that enable her to jump high. One usually finds a Manx in the tallest perch of a room. This breed likes to retrieve and bury toys, much like a dog, and is fascinated by water. Sweet and affectionate, the Manx is a good family pet. The breed has two coat varieties, longhair and shorthair.

DID YOU KNOW? A very old breed, the Manx is believed to have originated 200 to 300 years ago on the Isle of Man off the coast of England.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium to large, with males weighing from 4 to 6 kilograms and females weighing from 3 to 5 kilograms
Coat
 Longhair — medium, dense, soft, silky; shorthair — short, dense, glossy
Temperament
Adaptable, affectionate, playful
Grooming
 Weekly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Moderate
Personality

The Manx cat breed is good natured and affectionate. They love a cuddle and are very adaptable to family life.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain (Isle of Man)The tail-less Manx cat has been known for hundreds of years in the Isle of Man and there are various myths surrounding its exact origins. One even claims that Noah closed the door of the Ark too quickly and chopped off the tail. Another says that tail-less cats swam ashore to the Isle of Man from the wrecked galleons of the Spanish Armada in 1588. The lack of tail is undoubtedly the result of a genetic mutation possibly caused by inbreeding among the small population of British Shorthair cats on the island. The true or 'rumpy' Manx cat has only a small hollow where the tail would have been, although cats with residual tails are born. These are called 'stumpies', 'stubbies', or 'longies' depending on the length of the tail. The mutant gene that causes the taillessness may also be responsible for other skeletal deformities but despite this the Manx cat can be shown at all major UK cat shows.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The lack of a tail is a severe genetic defect and the Manx cat's 'deformed' spine may cause problems. If misshaped vertebrae affect the spine the cat may be prone to arthritis from an early age. In some cats the anal passage may be narrowed and this can cause bowel blockages. The mutant gene that causes the taillessness may also be responsible for other skeletal deformities and when two completely tail-less 'rumpies' are mated together the offspring are often born dead or die shortly after birth. The spines of Manx cats almost always show other deformities, sometimes the vertebrae are shorter than normal and in the lower part of the spine they tend to fuse together and they may be fewer in number.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.

 

Maine Coon
Maine Coon
Maine Coon

Recognised for having a bushy tail, shaggy coat and tufted ears, the Maine Coon is a hardy breed capable of enduring harsh climates. Referred to as a “gentle giant,” the Maine Coon is a popular companion that is good with children and dogs. This slow-maturing feline does not reach full growth for four or five years, yet is kittenlike well into old age. The Maine Coon loves nature and is particularly fascinated by water.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1985, this all-American breed became the official state cat of Maine.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Larger stockier cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
 Good in multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Large, with males weighing from 5.5 to 7 kilograms and females weighing from 4 to 5.5 kilograms
Coat
Shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach, smooth, shaggy
Temperament
Loving, intelligent, adaptable
Grooming
 Weekly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Highly vocal, with sounds ranging from meows and trills to chirps and cheeps
Personality

Maine Coon cats have a sweet nature and are very playful and friendly. They enjoy human company and make good pets. Possibly because of their humble origins they are often found curled up in the strangest of places. They enjoy outdoor life and so need a chance to climb and simulate hunting. Maine Coon cats are noted for the delightful quiet chirping sound they make.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USAThe ancestors of the Maine Coon cat were longhaired coats brought in to the State of Maine, in America, by seafarers in the 1850s. These cats mated with the local shorthair cats. The offspring were big, strongly built cats with semi-long coats and brush-like tails that resembled the tail of the raccoon, hence the name Maine Coon. The cats developed thick dense coats to withstand the extreme Maine winters. Special shows were held for Maine Coon cats as early as the 1860s and the breed became very popular as pets. The Maine Coon cat was imported into the UK in the 1980s.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Maine Coon cat breed seem to have a high prevalence of a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It also has a high prevalence of hip dysplasia. Ask the breeder about both these conditions before you buy.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.

 

La Perms
La Perms
La Perms

Distinguished by her curly, rippled coat and people-oriented personality, the LaPerm is calm and friendly, yet at other times energetic and inquisitive. This feline thrives on attention and likes to be close to her human companions. Though curious, this breed is content to be a lap cat and close to whatever is going on. The LaPerm blossoms with a loving family.

DID YOU KNOW? The LaPerm coat ranges from wavy to ringlets to long corkscrew curls. Those with longhair have curly plumed tails and a full, curly ruff, and those with shorthair have more texture, no ruff and a bottle-brush type tail. The tightest curls are found on the belly, throat and base of the ears.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium, with males weighing 3.5 to 5 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 4 kilograms
Coat
Short or long, soft, wavy
Temperament
 Gentle, active
Grooming
 Weekly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Ordinarily quiet, except when hungry or seeking attention
Personality

La Perms are gentle cats. They love people and seek out human company. They are very affectionate and enjoy being cuddled and readily learn to fetch as well as many other skills. They are inquisitive by nature always wanting to know what is going on around them. They are generally quiet voiced but may be vocal when wanting attention.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USAThe La Perm cat's curly or wavy coat is its most remarkable feature. This originator of the breed was found in a litter of ordinary cats on a farm in Oregon in 1986. A single kitten in the litter of six was born bald. Within eight weeks the kitten began to grow very soft, curly hair. At three to four months of age the kitten had a full coat of curly hair found in all La Perms. Unlike other curly coats breeds, such as the Devon Rex cat breed or Cornish Rex cat breed, the La Perm's coat may be short or long. The breed is not common outside America.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Inherited ailments have yet to be identified in the breed.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Korat
Korat
Korat

A rare Thai breed, the Korat is an affectionate constant companion that is gentle and good with children. Though this cat has an action-packed personality, the Korat moves slowly and cautiously and does not like sudden, loud noises. The breed is said to have extraordinary powers of hearing, scent and sight. The Korat’s silver-tipped blue coat, described in Thailand as rain-cloud gray, has a shimmering effect.

DID YOU KNOW? Discovered in the Korat province of Thailand, the Korat has been cherished in her native Thailand for centuries as a symbol of good fortune. The expressive, oversized eyes of the Korat have an intense gaze that is said to take one’s breath away. The eyes are blue at birth but change to amber with green around the pupil during adolescence and then luminous green in two to four years.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium, with males weighing 3.5 to 5 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 4 kilograms
Coat
Short, glossy, fine
Temperament
 Affectionate, active
Grooming
 Rarely/Never
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
 Average
Personality

Korat cats have a quiet, sweet nature but are very intelligent and playful. They make ideal household pets and can be devoted to their human companions.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Thailand

 

Other Names: : Si-Sawat

 

The Korat cat breed is named after a province in Thailand. In Thailand, where the breed is often known as 'Si-Sawat' (meaning good fortune) - a pair of Korat cats were a traditional gift for a bride. A Korat cat may have been entered in a British cat show in the 19th century as a Blue Siamese cat. They first appeared in America in the 1950s and arrived in Great Britain from there in 1972. They are one of the few breeds that are only available in one colour, in this case silvery blue.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Korat cat is quite a long-lived cat with ages of 18 and 19 not uncommon. Korat cats are known to suffer from gangliosidosis, an inherited enzyme deficiency that affects the nervous system causing paralysis. There is a test for this and owners should check that the breeder's cats have been tested and are free from the problem before buying a kitten.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Cat