It's hard to find someone who wouldn't want a pet. Cats are, deservedly, one of the most popular pets. They are divided into two main categories: mixed-breed cats and purebred cats. This article will focus on the latter, as the former are usually chosen randomly.
Popular cat breeds
Today, selective breeding has produced thousands of cat breeds, from the most common-looking to rare and unique. The internet is teeming with breeder websites and groups willing to provide a kitten for a certain price. Anyone considering a pedigree cat asks themselves, "Which one should I choose?" Personal tastes, allergies, temperament, and lifestyle should be considered. Choosing a pet based solely on its appearance risks, as the saying goes, clashing with its personalities and wasting a considerable amount of money.
There is no need to be afraid, because special felinological organizations have long been created cat breed registration standards, which can help you learn the name and key traits of your future pet. In this article, we'll provide descriptions and photos of some rare and popular breeds.
Breeds of catsAbyssinian cat
In the early 19th century, the first cat of this breed, named Zula, was brought to Europe, from where this graceful breed developed. The appearance and character standards have partially remained since then. These are short-haired, medium-sized cats. They are distinguished by a regal presence, posture, and grace unique to this breed. Abyssinian cats are very agile and strong, with well-developed muscles. Males are generally larger than females. Females are typically more active than males. Only a photograph can truly appreciate the beauty of this breed.
This is a very playful, intelligent, and active cat. It is easily trained and easily adapts to the rules of life in its home territory. The Abyssinian breed is extremely attached to its owner and does not tolerate long periods of separation well. Special grooming is not required; simply bathe the cat once a month and clean its ears every two weeks.
When choosing an Abyssinian kitten, you need to take into account that they have such genetic diseases, How:
- pyruvate kinase deficiency;
- progressive retinal atrophy;
- dislocation of the patella;
- hip dysplasia;
- renal amyloidosis.
Therefore, it's important to choose a cattery especially carefully. It's also important to ensure these cats are fed properly and have regular veterinary visits.
In Russia the breed Abyssinian cat It is considered rare, although it is actively winning the hearts of breeders.
American Shorthair cat
This breed has been known in America since 1965. This species developed over a long period of time in the wild, and therefore modern representatives of this breed are very similar to the extinct European wild cats.
The body proportions of this breed are directly claim to have hunting abilities, as all muscles are highly developed, allowing for high levels of physical activity. A distinctive feature of these cats is the head and its proportions; its length and width should be equal. Coat color varies widely, but the most popular is tabby (silver marble). We invite you to appreciate the classic beauty of this breed in photos.
The character of American Shorthair cats shows their extreme intelligence:
- clean
- obedient
- They are loving towards everyone around them, be it their owner, children or animals.
These pets are not prone to genetic diseases, but they are prone to obesity, which should encourage owners to provide their pets with the right diet and exercise.
Despite their low maintenance, these cats require careful grooming. Brush them during shedding periods and bathe them when they get dirty. Their claws should also be monitored, as they can grow into their paw pads.
The breed is not widespread in Russia; in 2012, about 50 individuals were counted.
Bombay cat
This breed was developed in the 1950s. It took 23 years of hard work by an American breeder from Kentucky for these cats to be officially recognized as a distinct breed.
The appearance of these animals associated with wild panthersThe body is compact, covered with smooth, close-fitting black fur, and the head is round and proportional, with copper-colored eyes. A key distinguishing feature is the absence of any white areas on the cat's body, not even a single hair.
The traits of their wild relative, combined with their friendly face, make these cats desirable family pets. Bombay cats get along well with children and other animals, have a hard time being alone, and love to meow in a soft, quiet voice.
They have few health problems, typically arising from improper care (gum disease) and breeding (deformities of the skull and nasal passages). There is one serious genetic disorder that leads to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
These domestic panthers don't require any special grooming. Brushing during shedding periods and occasional bathing will ensure your pet remains beautiful. However, you should carefully care for their eyes, which are prone to excessive tearing. If fluid accumulates, they should be removed. wipe with a sterile cotton swab, soaked in boiled water.
The breed is not widespread in the Russian Federation, although many people are happy to buy black kittens at bird markets.
British Shorthair cat
British Shorthair cat breed was bred in 19th century BritainThey weren't particularly popular back then.
The British Shorthair is a sturdy, medium- to large-sized cat. With a broad chest and rounded paws, a distinctive feature is the wide fold on the neck. The muzzle is rounded with a kind and calm expression, giving these pets a very proud appearance. The eyes are set wide apart and are typically orange or copper in color. White British Shorthairs have blue eyes, while the chinchilla-colored ones have green eyes. Numerous photographs of these beautiful felines can be found online.
The fur of these animals feels like plush to the touch, as it is short, soft, and lies close to the body. They come in a wide variety of colors, about 60, the most popular being silver-blue.
The distinctive character traits of British cats are their English reserve and independence, which are perfectly matched by their devotion to their owners. They are not tame cats and do not like to be picked up or "cuddled." They exhibit leadership qualities with other animals.
The British have good gene pool, which is why they are considered very healthy cats. The only contraindication is drafts, which can quickly cause a cold. It's also important to keep your pet away from fatty foods, as they are prone to obesity. Kittens of this breed are born quite large and reach full maturity by age 5.
British Shorthairs are also not the most demanding in terms of grooming, the main requirement being regular brushing—a couple of times a week and daily during shedding season.
In Russia the breed British Shorthair cats is very popular.
