Different Cat Breeds: Types of Cats

Although I love all animals, but ever since I can remember I have had this special relationship with cats. In fact, I don’t remember a time that I have been without their special love and companionship, which they have given me with all their warm and loving feline souls. And, for those people who have this great misconception about the so-called ‘cold and aloof’ attitude of cats, let me tell you my cats come running to the door as soon as they hear my car backing into the garage each evening. And once I enter, there is a great eruption of joy as Thaisi – she’s black and white in color – races up and down the house, and Rumsy – she’s gray and white – who is more staid and collected, comes and rubs up against me. They talk to me with their meows and their great soulful speaking eyes. Sure, they need their space sometimes – but who doesn’t?

Yes, cats make wonderful pets. So here is an account of a few of the different cat breeds that exist around the world. In fact, there are so many types of cats, and some of them are so different from each other, it can be quite mind-boggling. Apart from varying in looks, these cat breeds also differ in personality and temperament, with each having their own history. However, if you’re thinking of adopting a cat as a pet, my advice would be not to get too caught up with the personality traits of each breed. While the personality may differ in each breed of cat, but, it also has a lot to do with the kind of environment and care a cat gets as it grows up. However, what you do need to look out for is whether you want a longhaired or a shorthaired breed. Longhaired breeds need to be groomed regularly, which can be quite time consuming.

So, here is a list of different types of cat breeds along with brief descriptions:

Maine Coon: This is a longhaired breed of cat that is a native of America. It was given recognition as a specific breed in the state of Maine, where it was admired for its mousing talents. Having been bred naturally, this breed is a sturdy cat that is well adapted to the severe winters and other seasons of the region. The Maine Coon is known for its high intelligence, gentle disposition, and loving nature. This breed of cat adapts well with children as well as dogs and is a sought after and popular companion.

Ocicat: This fabulous spotted breed of cat is both a show stealer as well as a heart stealer. The Ocicat is a moderate type of agouti spotted cat, which is the result of interbreeding the American Shorthair, the Siamese, and the Abyssinian. It is the only domestic breed of cat that is spotted and has been bred selectively to emulate wild cats. Although the Ocicat may look wild, temperamentally it is not ferocious at all. Having the characteristics of dogs, this breed of cat is completely devoted to its owners. Ocicats are easily trainable because of their intelligence, and they adapt readily to rules in the house, respond to commands, walk on a leash, and even fetch.

American Bobtail: This is a natural bobtailed cat which is medium to large in size. Well muscled and athletic, its countenance displays power. This breed of cat has a head that is wedge-shaped, with a brow that is distinctive, and eyes that are almond shaped which have a natural gaze of hunting. It’s beautiful coat can be both medium-length longhaired and shorthair that is semi-dense. The coat is water resistant and resilient. Although it has the look of the wild in its appearance, the American Bobtail is very adaptable, has a very good disposition, and is a highly intelligent breed. The length of the tail can range between 1 to 4 inches, although sometimes it can be longer or shorter.

Chartreux: This cat breed has a deep chest, broad shoulders and a robust body, all of which are complemented by finely boned and medium short legs. Well muscled, this cat lives up to being the expert mouser as it is depicted in French literature. It is said that the Chartreux was named for the Carthusian monks who lived in France and even had a sip or two of their famed Chartreuse liqueur. The Chartreux’s blue coat is uniquely woolly and medium in length. Because of the dense undercoat, it feels like sheep’s wool. It has a narrow muzzle, a forehead that is tapering and softly contoured, and eyes that are rounded. This breed of cat is known for the smile that it has on its face. The Chartreux gets attached to its family very quickly and has the dog-like habit of following their owner around from one room to another.

Persians: With their pansy-like open faces and flowing long coats, the Persian is one of the most popular breeds of cats. Due to their gentle and sweet personalities, once they feel secure, they have the ability to adapt to practically any household. Although they prefer serenity and security, with reassurance and love, they adapt easily to even boisterous households. Their eyes are large and expressive, which they use to communicate, and they make delightful pets. However, their coat requires proper maintenance, which includes regular combing and grooming. The coat can be kept clean, beautiful, and healthy with an occasional bath, which it is best to establish when they are young. While white Persians have always been the most sought after, however they come in a wide range of colors.