Cat Breeds List

They say that you don't choose a cat as a pet, it is the cat that chooses you as its caretaker (to serve at its beck and call). Hence, I am liable to inform you before I start, that my different cat breeds list may not help you at all. Yet, if you are a cat lover, you must go through my list of different breeds of cats, at least for improving your feline knowledge. The temperament, physical features and some special characteristics of the various cat types are also mentioned in this article. I hope that my list of different breeds of cats is both informative and useful to you.

Cat Breeds List - Different Types of Cat Breeds
There are so many different types of cat breeds to choose from that one can make a really long cat breeds list. In my cat breeds list, I will give the cat breed name along with some more information on the characteristics and the temperament of that particular cat breed. Let us begin with the A to Z cat breeds list.

Abyssinian Cats
They are found in the northern regions of Africa and physically resemble very closely to the African wildcats. These are a type of tabby cats that are medium in size and possess a resilient coat. These lithe and agile creatures come in sorrel, fawn, blue, ruddy, red, tawny and cinnamon colors. Their eye colors range from green, hazel to gold. As pets, these cats are very active and do not make good lap companions. They are also lively, intelligent, affectionate and loyal, not to mention extroverted and friendly. Know more information on tabby cats.

American Bobtail Cats
They are specially named to highlight their physical characteristic of having a stubby bob tail. American bobtails have a shorter tail compared to other cat breeds, with tails just about one third or one half the normal length. American bobtails have a shaggy coat that gives it a wild, rugged look. Don't go by the looks though, for these medium to large sized cats are playful, friendly, energetic and intelligent. Like dogs, these cats do not require attention, they actually demand it. You will require scratching posts for them if you have them for pets, especially when they are in the 'demand attention' mood. They come in all patterns and colors, both for the coat as well as the eyes. They are good house pets as they do well with kids and don't mind being picked, or even handled roughly.

American Curl Cats
American curl cats are most popular pets for Americans, for their congenial temperaments and their low grooming necessities. They are named so, for their unique backwardly curling ears. They have beautiful, thickly furred tails and they come in two varieties, the long-haired curl and the short-haired curl. These faithful and affectionate cats are found in various patterns and colors, but their eyes are usually (though not always) the most striking blue ever seen. These lovable cats adjust well in the company of many other pets and are also good with people, especially kids.

American Shorthair Cats
The American Shorthair cats, famous for their hunting bloodlines, are symmetrical cats with well developed muscular bodies. They come in as many as 80 different colors and patterns and are strikingly beautiful. These are perhaps the only cats that take well to cat training and are generally quite docile and affectionate. Though they adjust easily to humans, they really do not remain themselves when picked up (prepare for some clawing, biting and hissing). They overeat easily and so exercise is a must for them, along with regular checkups and vaccinations.

American Wirehair Cats
These medium to large sized cats have padded, full paws and have prominent facial features, like muzzle, chin and cheekbones. They have good pet potential, as they require less health care and grooming, being naturally resilient to diseases. The American wirehair cats are named so for their dense, short haired, coarse coats, that come in a variety of colors. Being loving by nature, these pet cats are constantly craving love and attention. These rare cats dislike being held or picked up, so don't get one if you're looking for a lap cat.

Balinese Cats
The Balinese cat looks like a distant cousin of the Siamese cat, and falls in the category of oriental cats. The cat walks with grace and elegance and actually even behaves in a aristocratic manner. This seemingly blue-blooded cat has a fine, silky fur coat that can be found in a variety of traditional colors. Balinese cats are not only friendly, emotional and affectionate, but they are also extremely intelligent. They are active and alert social beings, that can even talk to themselves if no one's around.

Bengal Cats
Ironically, Bengal cats are closer to the Asian Leopard cat, than the Bengal tiger, which is the common misconceptions with their name. Though they have wild markings on their back, the Bengal cats are exceptionally friendly and gentle in their demeanor. These cats have strong personalities and are energetic and curious cats, that love to explore places. Though their size is that of a normal cat, there is nothing normal about their vocal cards and mysterious glitter type coloring patterns. It is great fun to watch these cats for they are very mischievous and get up to numerous antics, like climbing up high places and tumbling down to a fall, etc.

Birman Cats
No matter what color you find in a Birman cat, his paws (toes and fingers) are almost always white. Another extraordinary feature is that all Birman cats are born white and develop their own, unique, intense coloring only after a couple of years. Most of them though, have sapphire colored eyes. They demand attention by purring continuously in a soft voice and are very curious and inquisitive by nature. The life of these playful cats completely revolves around their family.

Bombay Cats
Bombay cats look like mini panthers, due to their deep black coats. Also known as the magician cats, Bombay cats like to use their vocal chords a lot and are found voicing their opinions to strangers, in their own unique voice. Bombay cats are heat seekers and love snuggling up in a warm blanket or near a heater. They also love being pampered and coddled. Though they get along well with other pets, they do tend to be a little autocratic and authoritarian and dominate the others around. They have copper or green colored eyes and come in various coat colorings.

British Shorthair Cats
With great cat show popularity, the British shorthair cats have won over the hearts of many a pet owners. This affable cat is medium to large in size and the male felines can be easily distinguished from the females. This sturdy, muscular cat is active and mischievous. They tone down their naughty activities as they grow older. Though they demand attention, they'd much rather get it from afar rather than getting up close and personal. Hence, they are perfect cats for working people.

Burmese Cats
Burmese cats are domesticated cats that are exceptionally friendly with humans. These gregarious cats express themselves very vocally, but in a soft voice. These small to medium sized cats have a sleek, glossy coat that comes in a wide range of colors. Even with their legendary fighting instincts, these cats are rarely aggressive towards humans and reserve their talents for defending themselves against other larger cats. If you want an energetic and playful pet, the Burmese cats are perfect for you.

California Spangled Cats
With the looks of a wild cat and the demeanor of a domesticated one, the California spangled cats can sure have you fooled. These cats though, are very rare and not easily available in the market to take home as pets. The California spangled cats look like mini leopards and have a strong, lithe and muscular body structure. Its almond shaped eyes go well with its spotted body coat. By cat standards, this breed of cat shows utmost devotion to its owner. Their exceptional hunting skills prove to be great fun especially when they pounce on imaginary things and take accidental falls.

Chartreux Cats
This French domestic cat breed is naturally endowed with water-resistant double coats. The chartreux cats are extremely agile and surprise everyone with really quick reflexes. They love traveling, unlike most other cats, so don't leave them at home when you're off on holiday. They usually have beautiful eyes, copper or gold, tinged with a bit of sunset orange. This soft-to-touch cat is very calm and attentive. If you love your peace and quiet, this cat rarely meows or cries. This quick learner is non aggressive with strangers and the perfect companion for your traveling getaways.

Colorpoint Shorthair Cats
These Siamese cousins have sixteen different 'point colors' on their body and hence the name. If you are looking for a lap cat, this one's perfect for you, for colorpoint shorthair cats love to sit cozy and cuddled. They tend to return much more love and loyalty than they get from their owners. Being sensitive to the owner's moods, this is the cat that will get up to funny antics, just to liven you up. The only flaw is that you can never keep these cats off your bed. Didn't I tell you that they like warm and cozy.

Cornish Rex Cats
The Cornish Rex cats have no thick fur, just a thin undercoat. Cornish Rex cats have a long, slender, gently curved body that is deceptively muscular. One prominent feature of this cat is its high Roman nose. They are people-oriented cats that get friendly with everyone. They are very interactive and curious, and these tendencies do not reduce intensity with age. If you are getting one, be prepared for their long lasting youthful antics.

Cymric Cats
Except for the long hair, the cymric cat breed is exactly the same as the manx cat breed. This tailless furry kitty cat, appears over fed and chubby. Its dense coat gives everyone this idea because in actuality they have a muscular medium sized body. These quick learners impress most people for being non-fussy pets. They love playing with water and are quite content doing things alone without you. If you are mostly away, this cat does not demand so much attention and is the perfect choice of pet for you.

Devon Rex Cats
The devon rex cats completely contradicts all the cat look notions you ever had. These soft, curly cats come in small or medium sizes. Their ears and upturned noses give their faces some prominence. These mischievous looking cats are actually quite companionable and playful. They absolutely adore human contact in the form of petting, hugging, cuddling and kissing. If you are into 'public displays of affection', this is the cat you require. They can jump really high and find themselves the smallest of places to hide in. Be ready for hide and seek.

Egyptian Mau Cats
Meet the fastest of all domestic cats, for the Egyptian Mau cat can run up to 30 miles an hour. It is also the only cat breed that acquired its spot without any human intervention. This medium sized cat has a small spotted coat, that comes in many colors and patterns. This outgoing cat loves company and demands a lot of attention form everyone. They are intelligent and elegant, with the added advantage of being easily trainable. They are loyal and really make good house pets.

European Burmese Cats
This athletic cat comes in a moderate body frame which is covered by a short, extremely soft body coat. These pretty eyed, beautiful cats require company. Normally agile and entertaining, these cats easily become depressed and unhappy when left alone for long periods. They love being kissed and cuddled and if you're not around to provide them with that all the time, they can change temperament. If you are away a lot, this is not the cat for you.

Exotic Shorthair Cats
This laid back kitty cat is a lazy version of the Persian cat. This heavily boned, medium to large cat requires less attention and grooming; perfect for those who cannot give it much time. It has a dense, soft coat and comes in too many colors to list out. They are loving, caring, loyal and sensitive towards their master. You will never believe how content this cat is, in the lap of absolute luxury, so pampering her will do you a lot of good. Know more about exotic cats.

Havana Brown Cats
One of the oldest cat breeds, the Havana Brown cats have along, distinctive head. This breed is seen in only two colors, lilac and brown, and almost always has green eyes. It is a smart, warm and quiet cat that is neither too active nor too sluggish. This gentle, docile cat is often seen standing tall on their hind legs, like meerkats.

Himalayan Cats
This blue eyed, point colored cat has a lot of hairs on it. Himalayan cats come with characteristic bushy tails and abnormally short legs. Though these hinder their jumps, they find other ways of mischief. They are best for companionship and protection, as they are fiercely loyal to their masters. Their only point to note is that their thick coat requires frequent brushing and grooming and that they frequently cough up hairballs.

Japanese Bobtail Cats
The Japanese bobtail cats are the street cats of Japan and are triangular faced, medium sized, oval eyed cats. They can be easily recognized by their bunny tails, that stick out like pom-poms. They are active, intelligent and talkative. In fact, their singing talents are legendary, with them stringing along melodiously, with anyone who happens to be talking to them. This cat has a tendency to supervise your household chores, making you feel like a serf, serving the lord high and mighty.

Javanese Cats
The colorful, long haired breed of cats, the Javanese cats possess a long haired, soft and silky coat, so good that it is shampoo commercial material. Though pointed colored cats, they fall outside the realm of common and sport some definitely uncommon colors. Though beautiful to look at, I must warn you that these cats are loud and absolutely adore talking to everyone, at odd hours of the day and night. They are responsive, intelligent and curious.

Korat Cats
These medium sized, short hair cats have a very compact body built. They sport a single coat, that is almost always silver-blue in color. The Korat cats are one of the few cat breeds that mellow with age to get more and more beautiful. Though shy and soft-voiced, these cats come with a strong personality and even stronger likes and dislikes. The good thing about this, is that the cat tells you exactly what she wants, which is usually easy to do.

Maine Coon Cats
The popularity of the Maine coon cats was somewhat lost to the charm of the Persian cats, some time ago, but the Maine coons have staged a good comeback. It has a shaggy, smooth coat that stretches out all the way to its long tail. They come in many colors and patterns. Toady, it is one of the best recommended breeds of domestic cats, for their calm and even temperament.

Manx Cats
The Manx cats have the unusual feature of having longer hind legs, than the front legs. The ideal manx cats have short rumpy tails and either a short haired or a long haired, double layered coat. They bond well with their owners and love to splash around in water. Though exceptional jumpers and skilled hunters, these cats are very gentle and calm in their temperaments.

Munchkin Cats
The most unique feature of the munchkin cats is their extremely short legs. They have beautiful resilient coats that can be both, short haired as well as long haired. These adventurous, self assured cats can do anything as well as the others, be it jumping, pouncing or running. These intelligent cats are known to learn voice commands easily. They are self-assured and possess a strong social personality.

Nebelung Cats
These elegant cats have a longer body and tail than other cats. They possess long, luminous coats, that look dreamy when the catch lights. These active, good natured and affectionate cats get along very well with their owners but are aloof to strangers and other non-feline pets. They follow a predictable pattern of behavior, like jumping on a lap whenever available or following the master around everywhere, etc.

Norwegian Forest Cats
This forgotten breed of cats has come back with a bang. These large cats have cold protective, waterproof coats. These friendly, family oriented cats, adjust easily to new people and new surroundings. They are natural athletes that love to play outdoors. They enjoy cold climates and do not require any grooming or maintenance.

Oriental Cats
Though they look slim, these cats pack up a lot of body weight. They are available in over 300 color combinations and have a long tail that whips around constantly. Pointed ears and tall legs give it an elegant and graceful look. They are sensitive to attention and get hurt and depressed if ignored for long. They will wait up for you, no matter how late you get, so they are quite a responsibility for their owners. They really give away absolute love and devotion.

Persian Cats
One of the oldest cat breeds, Persian cats are medium sized, thick coated cats. With their dense coats, these cats cannot keep themselves clean, and hence require regular cleaning and brushing. They are the definition of calm, quiet, laid back cats, and there's hardly anything that they make a fuss over. They crave attention and speak their minds in a soft, melodious voice.

Ragdoll Cats
Known for their silky, rabbit like short coats, the ragdoll cats are composed and affectionate cats. They are slow to mature and have small Siamese style color points on their fully matured coats. They are low maintenance and hardly ever require bathing. They are available in 6 different colors.

Selkirk Rex Cats
With Selkirk Rex cats, everything comes curled, be it hair, whiskers or tails. Their dense coats however, have a high propensity of shedding. They are patient, tolerant and laid back. They are available in many colors and are usually healthy and fit. The only problem with keeping them is the tedious task of taking out loose cat hair from your furniture and clothes. It sticks like glue and is hard to get completely rid of.

Siamese Cats
The Siamese cats are the oldest most popular breeds of cats. They are famous in Disney moves, like 'The Lady and the Tramp', etc. Their main attraction is their large, blue, almond shaped eyes. They are good cleaver learners, that will keep you on your toes with their mischievous antics. These cats really do scare my goldfish. With their royal, vocal screeches, they will most definitely get your attention, if they fail to achieve it through their funny climbs and falls. They do have a tendency to break things and generally get into trouble for it.

Siberian Cats
This is a large, long haired cat breed. Their durable, serviceable coat, covers a large, muscular body. Despite their large body size, they are agile and playful. They love being fussed over and settle comfortably into laps. They are friendly with strangers and are generally very tame and docile.

Singapura Cats
The Singapura cats are the smallest of all the cat breeds in the world. They have a ticked coat pattern, that is available in numerous dark and light shades. They are pesky introverts, that love checking out new people (the people however, may not like it). They use a soft voice for human interaction and like to climb to the topmost places and survey all below.

Sphynx Cats
It is a rare cat breed, that has no hair coat cover. They always look like 'the cat that got the canary', due to their smug 'I know what yo don't' type of facial expression and a slightly rounded, full abdomen. They are warm and feel like hot water bottles when they cuddle around you. They are completely hairless, so hair maintenance is absolutely zero. They are sharp, intelligent, playful and somewhat mysterious in their habits.

Tiffany Cats
Tiffany cats, also known as Chantilly cats, are rare cat breeds, that have a silky smooth, semi long hair coat. They come in various coat colors and their eye colors also vary accordingly. They possess a well balanced nature and temperament, that is neither placid nor hyperactive. They prefer solitude and are perfect for full time working owners. Only strangers find them to be somewhat aloof, otherwise, they get along with both humans and other pets.

Turkish Van Cats
These rugged, mountainous cats are very rare to find. Turkish van cats are patterned cats that come with odd markings on their coats. These energetic and agile cats are wonderful swimmers. Like dogs, their get extremely attached to their owners and are hence very loyal. Though their temperament depends somewhat on their upbringing, they are quite naughty and destructive.

York Chocolate Cats
This is a friendly, even tempered cat, that has along, fluffy coat and a plumed tail. These medium to large cats come in chocolate, white or lavender colors, and have beautiful green or gold eyes. These full-of-life cats observe their masters and mimic their activities. They like to be held and cuddled and love water. Tough social and patient, they need to be kept an eye on. This is because they always find new ways of mischief that are mostly funny but sometimes infuriating.

Some other cats that could not get named in my cat breeds list are:

• Aegean Cats
• Australian Mist Cats
• American Polydactyl Cats
• Asian Semi Longhair Cats
• Brazilian Shorthair Cats
• Burnilla Cats
• Calico Cats
• Chausie Cats
• Cheetoh Cats
• Don Sphynx Cats
• Dragon Li Cats
• European Shorthair Cats
• German Rex Cats
• Kurilian Bobtail Cats
• La Perm Cats
• Ocicat Cats
• White Cats
• Ojos Azules Cats
• Oregon Rex Cats
• Oriental Bihair, Oriental Shorthair and Oriental Longhair Cats
• Peterbald Cats
• Pixie-Bob Cats
• Ragamuffin Cats
• Russian Blue Cats
• Russian White, Black and Tabby Cats
• Savannah Cats
• Scottish Fold Cats
• Serengeti Cats
• Snowshoe Cats
• Sokoke Cats
• Somali Cats
• Sumxu Cats
• Tokinese Cats
• Toyger Cats
• Turkish Angora Cats
• Turkish Vankedisi Cats
• Twisty Cat or Squitten Cats
• Ukranian Levkoy Cats
• Ussuri Cats

Also know more about

• Oldest Cats in the World
• Domesticated Wild Cats
• Non Shedding Cat Breeds

Exhausted with my cat breeds list, I am now taking a break in my cat breed search. As much as I want to buy a cat (as a companion for my goldfish), I think I will wait till my head stops reeling and spinning. I think I am more confused now with which cat breed to select, than I was when I only knew of a few of these.