Choosing the Right Cat Breed
Adopting the perfect feline companion for your family
A look at some of the most popular purebred cats recognized by the CFA (Cat Fancier's Association) with suggestions on how to choose the right kitty for your family.
Choosing the right breed of cat for your family may seem like a daunting task, but with a little research, you can easily find the right match for your family. Your kitten, after all, may very well end up being part of your family for 15 years or more! It is important that you know a little bit about your cat or kitten before adopting her. You may simply end up adopting a domestic short hair or a mixed breed kitten from the animal shelter, but this decision should also be an informed decision.
You should ask yourself questions like:
- If you have children, is this a good breed for children?
- If you have a busy schedule, does this breed require lots of grooming time?
- If you have allergies, is there a good breed for allergy suffering feline fanciers?
- Is this breed more laid back or very active? Are YOU more laid back or very active?
- If you have other pets, is this breed tolerant of them?
The IAMS company has a “Cat Breed Selector” tool on their website that is interesting and fun! Something like this is a good place to begin:
You can also go to the Cat Fancier’s Association website and read the breed descriptions of every recognized breed in the CFA. There are also lots of pictures you can see so that you can choose a cat that you think is pretty, but of course, don’t let that be the only factor in your decision. This also helps if you’re thinking of adopting a cat from the shelter and are curious as to what type of mix the cat might be. A mixed breed will have some of the personality traits of whatever breeds it is mixed with.
The most popular breeds of cat are (compilation as of 2004):
- Persian - Persians are very calm and laid back kittens, with the Himalayans (color points) being a bit more vocal. They require lots of grooming!
- Maine Coon - The Maine Coon is one of the largest of pet cats, and they are said to have a very dog-like personality and are known for games of fetch.
- Exotic - The Exotic has the personality of a Persian without all the grooming requirements.
- Siamese - The easily recognizable Siamese is a very intelligent, loyal, and vocal kitty.
- Abyssinian - Abyssinians love everyone they meet and are a very active and playful breed.
- Ragdoll - Ragdolls gained their popularity for going limp in your arms when you pick them up. They are so docile that it is dangerous to let them outdoors unattended. They are another very large breed!
- Birman - Birmans are said to adjust to their family’s routine as they are easily adaptable. They have long hair but are also very easy to groom.
- Oriental - The Oriental is very people-oriented, not as chatty as the Siamese but has the same great looks.
- American Shorthair - The American Shorthair is one of the best breeds around children. The most popular purebred American Shorthair is silver with black tabby striping.
- Tonkinese - The Tonkinese can be a strong-willed kitty, but they have such a fun personality that it makes up for it if you have the patience to train them properly. They are very loving, and grooming is practically carefree.
If you have breed questions or would like to share some about your own breed, join in the discussions or start one of your own!
