The Most Popular Breeds of Cat

If you have made the decision that the cat is the right pet for your household, which you have the time, space and money to give one or more a good home, the next step is to decide what breed. Many people either have a specific breed of cat in mind or go for a non-pedigree but for those who want to explore the options, here are some of the most popular breeds and why they may suit you.

Top Five US Breeds
Cat owners tend to pick their breed based on either appearance or personality. With the personality of a cat, there are no guarantees that what is normal for a breed will apply to every single cat, but does give a general idea. With appearance, when buying a pedigree cat and spending what could be a lot of money on it, always look into breed standards to make sure you are getting a good version of what the breed should be.

The Persian is currently the most popular breed of cat in the US and has been since the Cat Fanciers Association began keeping records back in 1871. Persians are affectionate cats that are very loyal to their owners. Because of their long coats, do need daily grooming and will cast off considerable fur so are one of the least suitable breeds if anyone suffers from mild allergies. This may also be too much aggravation for people who like to keep their house fur-free.

The Maine Coon is a big cat that has been number two on the list since 1992, but the breed has been around much longer. For their size, they are gentle and loving cats, typically weighing around 15-25lbs. They are also relatively longhaired so need regular grooming.

The Exotic may be the cat if you like the look of the Persian but want something a little lower on grooming needs. They are often called Persians in Pyjamas due to their colouring. They are a great breed for a single person household as they tend to bond strongly with one person and are very loyal and loving.

The Siamese is another instantly recognisable breed that has been in the US since the late 1800's when it was given as a present to President Rutherford B Hayes. They are one of the more talkative breeds of cat with a range of unusual vocalisations. They too often bond particularly with one person but are also friendly and affectionate with others. They are also a very athletic breed.

The Abyssinian is a slender, medium-sized cat that is known for having above average intelligence and being very playful. They are also wilful and extroverted cats that like to play and need attention from their owners or can even become depressed. Unusually for an Oriental breed, they are also quite quiet.

Other popular breeds
The Ragdoll is a breed of cat named for its habit of going limp when picked up making them a very cuddly cat. They are also similar to the Maine Coon in size, weighing around 10-20lbs. They are best as an indoor cat due to their docile nature meaning they would not defend themselves against other cats and could become hurt.

The Birman is known as one of the most even-tempered breeds of pedigree cat, friendly and outgoing. They are known to sit at the door when they see you coming home and wait to greet you like a dog would. While having longhaired, they don't need as much grooming as breeds such as Persians.

The American Shorthair is a descendant of cats that travelled across on the Mayflower. They were used as hunting cats and that trait is still strong. They are quiet and calm cats that are great for a family household as they are good with children, even young ones.

The Oriental is a breed that looks like a Siamese, but comes in different fur lengths and a staggering 300 colour combinations. Personality wise they are similar to the Siamese but are less vocal.

The Sphynx is a slightly strange looking cat, virtually furless and very athletic. They are demanding of attention but respond to it by being loyal and loving.

Conclusion
These are just a few of the most popular breeds of cat available. Another option is to get involved with a rarer breed that needs new owners to help rebuild its numbers. Or if you aren't worried about what type of cat you have, head to the nearest shelter and give a home to one of the many abandoned cats there desperately needing a loving home.