Everything You Need To Know About Cat Breeds

It’s common knowledge that dog breeds are wide-ranging, and cats appear to be one big family. Not many people seem to know that cats have the same genetic diversity as dogs! The reality is that there are numerous cat breeds across the world, each with its own distinct appearance and personality.

Cat breeds are developed with the same care as dog breeds to maintain specific characteristics that make each species unique. Siamese, for example, is curvy and petite in appearance but has a loud voice. Persians are cuddly teddy bears that prefer to stay at home.

Here’s a detailed analysis of some of the world’s most common breeds. Which cat type is the best match for you?

What is the total number of breeds?

Based on who you ask, the response varies. There are 45 pedigreed breeds recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association and 71 by the International Cat Association. The CFA does not accept any of the breeds approved by TICA. This is because the species are “hybrids,” which have genetics that leads specific organizations to doubt the feline’s quality of life.

The Bambino, a hybrid between the Munchkin and the Sphynx, is an indicator of these contentious breeds. Since the Sphynx lacks fur, their skin is much more prone to being dirty or irritated. The Munchkin’s stubby legs make it difficult for them to ascend and leap. Some organizations hesitate to register the Bambino and other types with similar mutations because of the possible health risks and the cat’s small breeding pool.

Normal, cross-bred, and mutant cats are the three categories of cat breeds. Natural breeds developed naturally, while cross-bred lines resulted from deliberate breeding efforts. Preferentially breeding cats with unusual genetic quirks results in mutated species. Click on the link to learn more https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB912119899369123000. 

Which breed was the first to exist?

Since cats have indeed been with us for so long, it’s hard to say which cat breed is actually the oldest. Many people, however, assume it is the Egyptian Mau. Egyptians owned this elegant, spotted kitten long before 1500 B.C.E. Egyptian Mau cats were discovered with pharaohs from this era. In the afterlife, cats were said to direct the rulers who had passed away.

However, likely, Egyptian Maus existed as early as 10,000 B.C.E. Since the Egyptian Mau can be found in ancient texts, paintings, and hieroglyphs, this gives us a clue that cats have been here for a long time. This type is usually depicted as a worthy companion in paintings.

What is the most popular breed?

Let’s start with the Exotic Shorthair. This kitty is a Persian cat with short fur. It has the same snubbed nose as the Persian but without the extra grooming demands. The Exotic is a perfect snuggle buddy for every family because it is amiable and likable.

Next, we have the Ragdoll. With bright blue eyes and a soft seal-point suit, the Ragdoll is a stunning breed. However, the popularity of this large breed is not solely due to its presence. The Ragdoll is unbelievably cuddly. This is a pet you can take around with you and cuddle with all the time.

Because of its friendly nature, fluffy coat, and round features, the British Shorthair has become very common. It has a stocky body and a round face with big eyes.

Moreover, despite their high-maintenance coat, Persians have a somewhat laid-back demeanor. This is a cat that enjoys nothing more than lying on the sofa with you. Read more on this page. 

You have probably heard of the Maine Coon breed as well. It is among the world’s most giant cat breeds, with a friendly personality. This clever feline will learn tricks and imitate the behavior of a dog. It’s obedient, polite, and essentially in control of all that goes on in the house.

How do I figure out what breed my pet is?

It’s entertaining to examine your pet and equate its characteristics to those of different breeds. Many owners with big, furry cats, for example, claim their pet is “half Maine Coon.” Feline breeds are selectively bred and registered, so unless your cat has records, it’s most likely a domestic short or longhair.

There are a few things to look into if you really believe your kitten is at least partially purebred. First, take a look at their size. With the CFA, many of them have a very particular size in their breed requirements. A Maine Coon is more than just “huge.” It weighs between 13 and 17 pounds (for a male).

Take a look at the fur next. A Maine Coon is far more than “fluffy.” It should have a “heavy and shaggy” coat. It should have a shorter shoulder length and a longer stomach length. The facial characteristics of your cat are the next aspect to examine. The ears, eyes, head shape, and muzzles of most cat breeds are all very unique. Because of their square muzzle and firm chin, purebred Maine Coons have a rather regal look. The eyes must be oval in shape, and the ears ought to be broad and well-tufted.

Perhaps your kitten has both a mutation or some other unusual characteristic. Consider the snubbed nose of the Persian, the curled ears of the Scottish Fold, or the wavy hair of the LaPerm. This indicates that your cat has those genes because these are unusual characteristics that breeders purposefully preserve. You should research your cat’s personality in addition to its physical appearance. Most cat breeds have desirable features such as being sweet, social, and cuddly.

Your kitty is still unique, cute, and perfect, even if it isn’t purebred or a hybrid! Cats don’t have to be a specific breed to make wonderful family members.