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Cat Breeds A–Z Ultimate Guide

Whether you are researching a purebred or mixed breed cat our cat breeds a-z profiles are here to help. Each cat breed has a detailed profile and selection of pictures.

We write each listing from the point of view of the cat. We hope you find this approach fun and informational and of course we would love to hear your feedback!

Did you know that most cats fall outside the definition of purebred?

A cat is considered purebred if its ancestors are all the same breed. That would be a cat breed whose ancestry is officially registered with a cat registry. As of February 2020, the American Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) recognizes 42 pedigreed breeds and the International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes 71 breeds.

A mixed cat is a descendant from multiple breeds. It can also be a mix between a purebred and a domestic cat. If a cat resembles a known breed it’s generally called a mix of that breed. Without registration papers from a breeder however you won’t be able to prove the actual breed.

A domestic cat (also known as a moggy thanks to our British friends) is just a wide stroke brush used to describe all purebred, mixed, feral cats whether they live in a house, farm, elsewhere or are toughing it out on the streets or countryside.

If you want traits like a predictable personality, a certain look or energy level then purebred may be the way to go. Of course, purebred cats are known to have more health problems than their mixed breed counterparts. For purebred the gene pool is smaller, and inbreeding can occur to get the desired look. The mixed breed cat has a much larger gene pool and greater diversity generally resulting in a healthier cat. Remember the most important thing is to love your cat unconditionally irrelevant of any breed or pedigree.

Cat Breeds A-Z

Without further ado, here are the list of a-z cat breeds of the feline world.

Abyssinian

Size: Medium, 8 to 16 lbs
Coat: Short and thick with agouti or ticked bands.
Child Friendly: Not particularly.
Personality: Extremely active, curious and mischievous, has a fondness for showing off.

abyssinian cat

I’m a high-spirited stunner with looks that rival the sacred cats portrayed in Egyptian murals. But I’m no elegant lap cat – I prefer to live life on the edge, fueled by my insatiable curiosity to climb to the highest heights of the home, investigate everything my humans are up to and explore anything that catches my ever-alert attention.

Read more about the Abyssinian

American Bobtail

Size: Medium-large, 7 to 16 lbs
Coat: Medium- to long-haired coat that doesn’t mat.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Sociable, affectionate, intelligent, easily trained, loves company.

American Bobtail kitten laying

Don’t let my wildcat looks fool you. Despite my rugged bobbed tail and muscular physique, I’m as friendly and playful as a kitten. I love the attention of my humans and I’m not above asking for it so prepare for lots of playtime.

Read more about the American Bobtail

American Curl

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 10 lbs
Coat: Short to long with minimal to no undercoat.
Child Friendly: Only if they play with me.
Personality: Very lively and curious, extremely sociable and loves to play.

American curl cat

It’s a good thing most people find my curly ears irresistibly adorable – because I’ve got an insatiable desire to be adored. I thrive on affection and I’m as much of a giver as a taker, showering my love and energy on all those I hold dear – human, canine or feline. Life’s just too short for discrimination!

Read more about the American Curl

American Wirehair

Size: Small-Medium, 6 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Medium-length, very dense, springy, resilient and fairly stiff to the touch.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very patient, tolerant, and calm with sharp hunting instincts.

American Wirehair Cat

Blessed with a low-maintenance curly coat and a calm temperament, I’m a joy to have around. I’m curious and active, without being overly hyper, affectionate and loving without being demanding. The purrfect Goldilocks sort of cat, if I do say so myself.

Read more about the American Wirehair

Balinese and Javanese

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Very fine, silky and fairly long.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very affectionate and loving, highly intelligent, needs to be always showered with attention, extremely vocal and clingy to their owners.

Balinese and Javanese Cat

I’m named for the graceful dancers from the island of Bali, but I’m much more of a talker than a dancer. I truly love my humans which is why I spend so much time following you around. Admittedly, I can be a bit of a chatty cat, but my very affectionate, devoted nature also makes me an invaluable friend.

Read more about the Balinese and Havenese

Bengal

Size: Medium-Large, 9 to 15 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium yet very lush and thick, with prints similar to a leopard’s and other wildcats.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very smart, craves constant attention, talkative and extremely playful.

Bengal cat

Large and exotic, I look a lot like my wild cat ancestors. And like them, I can be a lot to handle with my super high energy levels, exceptional athleticism, and an abundance of smarts. But I am also a load of fun and can be trained, taken for walks and even swims!

Read more about the Bengal

Birman

Size: Medium, 7 to 15 lbs
Coat: Long, silky and doesn’t mat.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very sociable and adaptable, adores being showered with affection and attention, but not clingy or demanding.

Cat breed Birman sitting on grass

With my royal good looks, is it any wonder I was worshipped in temples throughout Burma? But my beauty is more than fur-deep – I am one of the sweetest, most gentle cats in existence and unlike most good-natured felines, I am neither lethargic nor aloof, preferring to spend my energy being affectionate with my humans.

Read more about the Birman

Bombay

Size: Medium, 5 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Sleek, short and very black.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Extremely playful with both humans and other pets, inquisitive and hungry for affection.

Bombay Cat

Jet black and beautiful, I am nowhere near as mysterious as my looks suggest. In fact, I’m an open book – wide open to giving and receiving as much love’ affection to and from every single member of my family – including the little ones. I’ll even follow you all around ’til I get my fill of love…

Read more about the Bombay

British Shorthair

Size: Medium-Large, 8 to 16 lbs.
Coat: Thick, short and dense.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Calm and gentle, playful yet not overactive.

British Shorthair Cat on window sill

With my round, fluffy teddy-bear looks, it’s no wonder I’m the most popular cat on cat breeds a-z and yes I’m the most popular cat in Britain. And it’s not just my looks that keep me ranking on the world’s most popular cat charts, either – I am a well-mannered, genteel feline with a zen-like disposition toward life and fellow creatures.

Read more about the British Shorthair

Burmese

Size: Medium, 7 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Short, has a satin-like texture and almost has no undercoat.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Extremely playful, inquisitive, very intelligent and craves constant attention.

Burmese Cat

Curious, trusting, and very playful, I am the social butterfly of the feline world with no sense of boundaries. I spend my days in active pursuit of new things to discover and new beings to befriend, which never gets old – even well into adulthood.

Read more about the Burmese

Burmilla

Size: Medium, 6 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, fairly smooth and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Fun-loving and playful but gentle and laid-back, highly sociable yet independent, loves high places but tends to be clumsy.

Burmilla cat

I get my good looks and my personality from two exceptional cat breeds – the playful and mischievous Burmese and the laid back and affectionate Chinchilla Persian, which makes me the purrfect mix of the two temperaments: fun-loving and sociable yet quiet, gentle, and very easy to get on with.
My upbeat yet laid-back disposition makes me one of the easiest felines to take care of – just keep in mind I tend to be a bit clumsy so store away your breakables!

Read more about the Burmilla

Chartreux

Size: Medium, 6 to 14 lbs.
Coat: Slightly fuzzy and short to medium in length.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Quiet, very sociable, highly intelligent and has a fondness for climbing.

Chartreux cat

Bonjour. I am officially the preferred grey cat breed of great writers and thinkers. Yup, my refined, well-mannered ways have resulted in a long and illustrious history of association with the creme de la creme of French intellectual society.
I’m also a top-notch mouser so if you’ve got a problem, just let me know. It’ll be taken care of before you can say purrfect.

Read more about the Chartreux

Chausie

Size: Large, 15 to 25 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium in length, with a fairly rough overcoat and soft undercoat.
Child Friendly: No
Personality: Very active, inquisitive and daring, highly intelligent.

Chausie cat

True to my wildcat lineage, I am a fearless feline – exceptionally fast on my feet and capable of heart-stopping feats of athleticism, like leaping six feet into the air! I’m clever, too, which means I’ll be able to navigate to the highest, most out-of-reach spots around the house…better stash away those valuables.

Read more about the Chausie

Colorpoint Shorthair

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short, lustrous and very close to my body.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Extremely affectionate and social, very vocal and always craves for attention, loves to play, highly intelligent, aloof to strangers.

Colorpoint Shorthair Cat

Affectionate and sensitive, I’m the sort of feline that’s very in touch with my emotions – and I like to tell you all about them by following you around the house to engage you in lively conversation or prompting you toward an extended pampering session. I hope you like company, because I’ll rarely stray from your side.

Read more about the Colorpoint Shorthair

Cornish Rex

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short, rippled and wavy.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Confident, very friendly, smart, clownish and like to show off my acrobatic skills.

Cornish rex standing

I am a sheer marvel of graceful curves, from my curly coat to my elegantly arched body. But in contrast to my aristocratic looks, I’m a ridiculously playful cat, bursting with unabashed enthusiastic playfulness. Oh, and I’m clever too – I can even learn how to open doors with my paws. You’ve been warned!

Read more about the Cornish Rex

Cymric (Longhaired Manx)

Size: Medium-large, 8 to 16 lbs.
Coat: Long with a dense undercoat.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very playful, smart, loyal, extremely affectionate and loves to interact.

Cymric cat

I am a cat of contrasts. Although I may look buff and formidable, I am very affectionate and playful. Although sociable, I’m also highly independent. And despite my gentle, easy-going personality, I can become territorial and protective of what’s mine.

Read more about the Cymric

Devon Rex

Size: Small-Medium, 4 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Very short, wavy and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Daring, very playful, likes to interact with people and animals, extremely active and has a fondness for jumping and climbing.

Devon Rex cat

My large eyes and ears combined with my short, wavy coat has earned me a few nicknames, including ‘elf cat’ and ‘poodle cat,’ but the most accurate is ‘monkey in a cat suit’ for my dexterous climbing and jumping abilities as well as my people-pleasing performances.

Read more about the Devon Rex

Donskoy

Size: Medium, 7 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Extremely short to hairless.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Smart and super friendly, unconditionally devoted and affectionate.

Donskoy cat staring

Bald but wonderfully lovable sums me up purrfectly. I mingle with everyone – both family and strangers – ‘though I’m unconditionally devoted to those nearest and dearest to me. Being curious and affectionate, I’ll pour my energy and love into making myself a big part of your life.

Read more about the Donskoy

Egyptian Mau

Size: Medium, 6 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Medium length, very fine and has a silky texture.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Affectionate and playful, loves climbing and jumping, extremely smart, not fond of strangers and other pets.

Egyptian Mau Cat

I’m a highly adaptable feline, suitable for both indoor and outdoor living. Should you let me out, you’ll be impressed to find I have top-notch hunting skills – I may bring you back a treat or two. Especially if you’re one of my favorite humans.

Read more about the Egyptian Mau

Exotic Shorthair

Size: Medium-large, 8 to 15 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium in length, silky in texture and very dense.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very sociable, affectionate and playful, not very vocal and loves being cuddled.

Exotic shorthair cat

Love the cuddly good looks of the Persian but can’t deal with all the fur? Then I’m purrfect for you, since I’ve got all the adorable looks of the Persian minus the high-maintenance coat. I’ve even inherited the Persian’s easy-going, affectionate disposition, but with another crucial difference – I’m active and playful!

Read more about the Exotic Shorthair

Havana Brown

Size: Small-Medium, 7 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Short, thick and in warm and rich reddish-brown.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Smart, playful, wants to have a say on everything, easily adjusts to new people and environments yet constantly craves attention.

Havana brown cat

I thrive on affection and attention. They’re the main motivating forces in my life and everything I do from snooping on everything you do around the house to engaging you in lively banter is all a means to a most desired end: a long, pampering session of rubs and cuddling.

Read more about the Havana Brown

Highlander

Size: Medium-large, 12 to 22 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long, thick and very resilient.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Playful and affectionate yet relatively quiet.

Highlander Cat

I’m a large feline with wildcat roots but despite for the most part being a domesticated Lynx, I’m more of a jester than a predator and prefer to spend my days goofing around showing off my crazy antics. I don’t talk much, but I get on well with pretty much everyone.

Read more about the Highlander

Himalayan

Size: Medium-large, 8 to 13 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long and very thick.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Moderately vocal, placid, not too playful but friendly.

Himalayan flat face cat

I’m what’s known as the best of both worlds – a purrfect combination of two very popular cat breeds, the Persian and the Siamese. And that’s both for my looks and my personality, which strikes the ideal balance between the Persian’s gentle nature and the Siamese’s affectionate playfulness.

Read more about the Himalayan

Japanese Bobtail

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium-long and can be very thick and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Highly confident and adaptable, intelligent and sociable, but also enjoys solitude.

Japanese bobtail cat

Confidence is key and I have it in spades. Which makes socializing, adapting, playing well with others, and public speaking – with my characteristic sing-song coo – a breeze for me. The best part? I’m self-assured enough to enjoy solitude as much as company.

Read more about the Japanese Bobtail

Khao Manee

Size: Medium, 6 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Fairly smooth, short and pure white.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Sociable and friendly, devoted to my humans and mingles easily with strangers and other pets, loves interactive games.

Khao manee cat

With a pure white coat and different-colored eyes – I am one of the most striking felines you’ll ever lay eyes on…if you’re lucky enough to, since I’m still a rather rare breed. Yes, I think I’m top of the list on cat breeds a-z. For those fortunate enough to get a hold of me though, I am one sociable, devoted people cat!

Read more about the Khao Manee

Kinkalow

Size: Small, 3 to 7 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, fairly smooth and sleek, in any color or pattern.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Fairly calm but curious, love being around my humans and clambering up high places.

Kinkalow Cat

What I lack in size, I make up for in playfulness. While I’m not crazy active to the point of being exhausting – I do get bursts of activity during which time you’ll see me zipping in and around the home chasing anything that catches my attention or trying to engage my humans in a game or two.

Read more about the Kinkalow

Korat

Size: Small-Medium, 5 to 11 lbs.
Coat: Short, thick and silky coat in silver-tipped blue, bluish gray.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Loves being the center of attention, craves constant companionship and can get jealous of other pets.

Korat cat

I love being the center of attention. And I’ll use everything I’ve got including my range of vocal cords and above average intelligence – to make sure yours is focused on me. The limelight is mine, so if you’re planning on seeing other pets, make sure they know that I am and will always be your favorite.

Read more about the Korat

Kurilian Bobtail

Size: Medium-large, 8 to 15 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, thick and very silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Extremely loving, friendly and laid-back, extremely skilled hunter.

Kurilian Bobtail Orange Cat

With bobbed tails as unique as human fingerprints, I’m a special cat. True to my wildcat looks, I’m not opposed to some rumbling and tumbling fun like hunting and going for swims, but despite my powerful appearance, I have the gentle, loving disposition of a kitten and I’m easy to get along with.

Read more about the Kurilian Bobtail

Lambkin Dwarf

Size: Small, 5 to 9 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, with an overall shaggy look and plush and soft texture, can come in any color or pattern.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Fairly playful and nosy, docile and fond of initiating play with my humans, a lap cat every now and then.

Lambkin Dwarf cat

I may be vertically challenged, but my shortness never prevents me from enjoying life to the fullest. I guess that’s ’cause my temperament is the purrfect mix between the dispositions of my parents – I get my zippy bearing from my Munchkin side of the family, while my Selkirk Rex roots are responsible for my docile and cheerful attitude.

Read more about the Lambkin Dwarf

Laperm

Size: Medium, 4 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, with prominent wavy and kinky curls.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Extremely affectionate, very intelligent, loves chilling out on laps.

La perm cat

I’m as lovingly affectionate as I am curly, which is a lot! I’m a social kitty and will be happy to meet and greet guests. I’m blessed with a high feline IQ and am rather in tune my human’s emotions – I won’t hesitate to shower you with some TLC when I think you could use some snuggles.

Read more about the LaPerm

Lykoi

Lykoi cat

Mysterious, with an unusual appearance describes me. Humans say I look like a wolf or even worse a werewolf, with some characteristics of a dog, the physique of a cat – thankfully. I was discovered in 2010, which makes me pretty much the new kitty breed on the block. I’m smart, curious, cheeky with a fierce bond and loyalty to my family.

Oh, did I mention I have a masked face, patchy fur with no undercoat? No, I’m not suited for the outdoors Brrr, but I’ll gladly accept fur rubs in both directions by the fire!

(full profile coming soon)

Maine Coon

Size: Medium-Large, 9 to 20 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long, smooth, silky, very thick and rugged.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very friendly, easy going, likes to socialize with people and other pets, an excellent mouser, does not crave constant attention, fairly intelligent.

Maine coon cat laying

I’m a true American – big, hearty, and one of the oldest breeds to originate in the US. A rugged sort of cat, I’m built to survive – and thrive – with my water-repellent fur and top-notch hunting skills I’m a force to be reckoned with. Underneath my brawny good looks lies the heart of a gentle giant though. Don’t tell anybody but I’m as loving and affectionate as a kitten.

Read more about the Maine Coon

Manx

Size: Medium, 8 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, thick and very silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very clever and sociable, territorial, can master tricks and go on walks, fond of water and quite canine-like.

Manx cat

My lack of a tail isn’t the only un-feline thing about me. I’m also highly sociable, protective of my home, and enjoy a game of fetch as much as your average canine. Oh, and did I mention I can be taken for walks and bathed in water as well? Told you I wasn’t your average cat.

Read more about the Manx

Minskin

Size: Small, 2 to 6 lbs.
Coat: Hairless or very short.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very people-oriented, loves to snoop, intelligent and unabashedly affectionate.

Minskin Cat breed info

I’m a mini cat with super short legs and a mostly hairless body, I am truly one of a kind. Add to that my easy mingling with both humans and other pets, unabashed affection, and high intelligence I’m quite the feline catch.

Read more about the Minskin

Munchkin

Size: Small-Medium, 4 to 9 lbs.
Coat: Short to long, thick and dense, all patterns and colors accepted.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very playful, inquisitive, people-oriented, loves running and chasing, likes to be handled, fond of shiny things.

Munchkin cat

I may be miniature, but I’ve got a big heart. I socialize with everyone and am always open to being adored – even if that translates to being picked up. And my short stature never prevents me from living life to the fullest. In fact, I’m every bit as active and playful as my longer-legged cousins.

Read more about the Munchkin

Nebelung

Size: Medium-Large, 5 to 16 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long, thick and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Curious, mild-tempered, initially shy but affectionate.

Nebelung cat

I’m every bit as genteel and reserved as my dignified looks suggest and prefer to save my love for just one or two special humans rather than everyone. I’m easy to love back since I’m fairly low-maintenance and quiet, but just keep in mind that I’m a sensitive cat and my affections need to be reciprocated.

Read more about the Nebelung

Norwegian Forest

Size: Medium-Large, 6 to 20 lbs.
Coat: Fairly long, thick and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very patient, smart, easily gets along with humans and pets but independent.

Norwegian Forest Cat Sitting

I may be strong and muscular, but I’ve got the disposition of a bunny rabbit. Sweet, nurturing and affectionate, I love everyone unconditionally and when I’m not romping through the house to work off my high energy, I’ll be making my rounds to cuddle anyone and everyone in my path.

Read more about the Norwegian Forest

Ocicat

Size: Medium-large, 5 to 14 lbs.
Coat: Short, fairly silky, smooth and lies close to its body.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very smart, playful and highly active, likes to be handled and inherently curious.

Ocicat

My exotic, wildcat looks are a tad deceptive – I don’t have a drop of wild DNA in my genes. As such, my nature is pure domestic feline, friendly and affectionate. But I’m not just an indoor kind of cat. I’m also adventurous and playful and can be taken out on walks…with a leash, of course.

Read more about the Ocicat

Ojos Azules

Size: Medium, 6 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Fairly short, silky and lies close to the body.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Affectionate and calm, people-oriented, patient, easily gets along with other pets, not too demanding when it comes to attention.

Ojos azules cat

Blessed with a striking pair of the bluest eyes, I’m an absolute beauty. But I’m also hard to get, being one of the feline world’s best kept secrets. Even in this day and age of frenzied cat fancy, I am still one of the rarest breeds you can get your hands on.

Read more about the Ojos Azules

Oriental

Size: Small-Medium, 4 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium, very smooth and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Attention-hungry, active and very smart, loves to talk and extremely devoted to my human(s).

Oriental cat

I thrive on attention and will do anything to get it. That includes following you around ’til you submit to a petting session. If that doesn’t work, you’ll hear my vocal cords ’til you acknowledge my very acknowledge-able presence. I’m the purrfect companion if you’re looking for constant, active feline company.

Read more about the Oriental

Persian

Size: Medium-large, 7 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Very long, thick and requires habitual grooming.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very zen-like, quiet and gentle, loves to lounge and affectionate yet undemanding.

Persian cat

I don’t mean to brag, but I’ve officially been the most popular cat breed for, like, forever. My desirability has both to do with my adorably fluffy looks as well as my extremely laid-back personality. I’m very zen-like, you know – gentle, soft-spoken and capable of accepting every moment with gracious nonchalance.

Read more about the Persian

Peterbald

Size: Medium, 7 to 14 lbs.
Coat: Very short to totally hairless, with a peach fuzz feel when touched.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Highly affectionate and very social, loves to show off my athleticism, friendly but rather dependent on my humans.

Peterbald cat

What I lack in hair I make up for in intelligence and devotion. I’m a very affectionate cat who loves to be with my humans, preferably being cuddled or played with. I thrive on attention and tenderness and won’t hesitate to use my voice or smarts to get what I want.

Read more about the Peterbald

Pixie Bob

Size: Medium-large, 9 to 18 lbs.
Coat: Short to long with a light undercoat.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Very intelligent, gets along easily with people and other pets, playful but not demanding.

Pixie bob cat staring

I’m a smarty pants. If you want, you can even train me to understand some human words and take me for walks on a leash. Sort of like a canine, which I admit I do share similarities with such as my devotion to my humans, high activity levels, and easy-going sociability.

Read more about the Pixie Bob

Ragdoll

Size: Large, 12 to 20 lbs.
Coat: Semi-longhaired, smooth and very silky.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Laid back and very gentle, loves to lounge, not so fond of climbing but likes water, will go limp when picked up.

Ragdoll cat

My name gives me away. I’m just a big, fluffy, and easy-going ragdoll. I’ll even go limp when you pick me up – which I’ll let you do even if you’re a stranger. I’m just friendly like that. Plan for me to follow you from room to room just to be closer to you as I laze around.

Read more about the Ragdoll

Ragamuffin

Ragamuffin cat

I’m a calm, elegant, strong, big bodied kitty with heavy bones, long tail and a plush coat. If walking a cat on a leash is your thing, consider me down! I get along great with kids and am surprisingly patient, for a cat that is. If you take me into your home, you better dedicate plenty of time just to me! Yes, daily play and cuddle sessions are a requirement, or I’ll get bored. Let me lay back in your lap and sleep for hours, purrfect.

(full profile coming soon)

Russian Blue

Size: Medium, 8 to 12 lbs.
Coat: A double-coat that is fairly dense and thick.
Child Friendly: Yes
Personality: Quiet and introverted, prefer gentle affection over rough play, devoted to my humans and wary of strangers, stickler for cleanliness.

Russian blue cat

Gentle and introverted, I tend to be shy around strangers and wary of noises and crowds. Socializing is just not my cup of catnip. I prefer the tender affection and comfortable familiarity of just one or two humans with whom I can spend a quiet and full life with.

Read more about the Russian Blue

Savannah

Size: Medium-Large, 8 to 20 lbs.
Coat: Short to medium in length with bold stripes and spots.
Child Friendly: Yes, but you’ll want to supervise.
Personality: Extremely energetic, demands a lot of interaction from humans but reciprocates with affection, loves the water.

Savannah cat

Beautiful, athletic, and smart, I’m the sort of cat you’re going to want to show off to your friends. And you can, too, since I can easily be taught to walk on a leash and even master tricks like ‘fetch’ and ‘sit’. I’m not shy at all so you can even catch performances of my climbing skills and ability to jump 8 feet straight into the air!

Read more about the Savannah

Scottish Fold

Size: Small-Medium, 6 to 13 lbs.
Coat: Short to semi-longhaired, very soft and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes,.
Personality: Sweet-tempered, easily warms up to people and other pets, doesn’t crave for constant attention, curious, loves to play.

Scottish fold flat face cat

With my huge eyes and droopy ears, I am possibly the cutest cat on cat breeds a-z. But my cuteness isn’t just fur deep. Sweet, gentle, and good-natured, I get along with everyone and retain my kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood.

Read more about the Scottish Fold

Selkirk Rex

Size: Medium-Large, 6 to 16 lbs.
Coat: Short to long and very curly.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Extremely gentle and mellow, likes to socialize with people and other pets, very laid back.

Selkirk Rex kitten

With a curly coat that’s thicker and plusher than the LaPerm’s covering my large, heavy-boned body, I’m a very abundant feline. The most abundant breed on here actually. And it’s not just my looks – I hail from several notable cat breeds and have inherited their best qualities: the affectionate patience of the Persian, the graceful calm of the British Shorthair, and the playful sociability of the Exotic Shorthair.

Read more about the Selkirk Rex

Serengeti

Size: Medium, 6 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Short, fine and very smooth.
Child Friendly: Yes, but my bursts of energy can startle the little ones.
Personality: Shy at first but soon turns into the ‘velcro cat’ – loves to follow humans around and start lively conversations.

Serengetti Cat

I’m without doubt the wildest looking cat on cat breeds a-z! Graceful, leopard like – yes, I intentionally look like my African cousins even though I’ve been bred from domestic roots. I may be standoffish when we first meet, but that’s just initial shyness. Once I warm up to you, I pretty much turn into ‘Velcro cat,’ following you around to nosy in on whatever you’re doing.

Read more about the Serengeti

Siamese

Size: Small-medium, 6 to 14 lbs.
Coat: Short, fairly smooth and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Extroverted people cat, very vocal and playful, often noisy, can be demanding.

Siamese cat on table

I am a straight up extrovert who loves to mingle so expect me to be right where the action is. It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing – I’ll be there, and you can bet I’ll have something to say about it. In fact, I’ll have a lot to say cause I’m one of the most talkative cats like ever!

Read more about the Siamese

Siberian

Size: Large, 13 to 26 lbs.
Coat: Long, thick and very dense.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Very loving and friendly, likes to play, an avid climber and extremely intelligent, fond of water.

Siberian cat

Physically, I’m built to survive in the rough, cold forests of Siberia, but emotionally, I thrive in the warm company of my humans. I’m very sociable and affectionate and will frequently engage my humans in games. That is, when I’m not climbing, playing with the faucet, or stealing your shiny objects.

Read more about the Siberian

Singapura

Size: Small, 4 to 8 lbs.
Coat: Very short, fine and silky.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: A pesky, playful people cat with a fondness for getting in on everything my humans are up to.

Singapura cat staring

I am a pint-sized bundle bursting with energy. Not shy at all, I’ll jump and pounce my way into the center of all household affairs. I love attention! And I’ll do anything for it, which is why I’ve been dubbed the ‘pesky people cat.’ Pesky, I may be, but I think I’m also rather lovable.

Read more about the Singapura

Snowshoe

Size: Small-Medium, 7 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Short and fairly smooth with distinctive points.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Super loving and affectionate, craves quality time with humans, chatty, curious, loves water.

Snowshoe Cat laying down

My elegant facial markings and fancy white paws make me appear a lot more dignified than I actually am. When you meet me, you’ll realize I’m a whirlwind of sociability and unbridled affection which I’ll unleash at every opportunity. And once I get my paws on you, it’ll be hard to escape since I’ll follow you pretty much anywhere – even into the bathtub!

Read more about the Snowshoe

Sokoke

Size: Medium, 5 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short, dense and very close to the body with an African tabby pattern.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Extremely attentive to and sensitive to the feelings of my humans, intelligent and playful, sociable but needs time to warm up.

Sokoke cat breed

I’m one of the rarest cat breeds in the world, blessed with a truly unique African tabby pattern and of high intelligence. It does take me some time to warm to new humans or environments so keep that in mind. Once comfortable, I bond closely with my family and even have an uncanny ability to pick up on human emotions and act accordingly.

Read more about the Sokoke

Somali

Size: Medium, 6 to 12 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long, soft, thick and very silky.
Child Friendly: Yes, but can startle young ones with my sudden bursts of energy.
Personality: Very active and playful, clever and curious, wants to be involved in everything around the house, likes water.

Somali orange cat gazing

Vibrantly colored and with a full-plume tail, I look like – and have the cunningness of – a fox. Yes, I’m a clever cat, the smartest on cat breeds a-z I’m sure, and I use my smarts to investigate every nook and cranny of the house, learn how to open closed cabinets, and knock various objects off high places to see how they land. I admit, I can be a handful but I’m a good-natured, sociable feline.

Read more about the Somali

Sphynx

Size: Medium, 7 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Hairless.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Loves to show gestures of affection, very inquisitive, intelligent, has a fondness for playing, fairly active, easily gets along with people and other pets, likes to be the center of attention.

Sphynx cat

Highly sociable and unreservedly affectionate, I know no shame when it comes to begging for attention. I’ll greet you when you get home, follow you wherever you go, talk to you endlessly, learn to play fetch so we can bond further, and even snuggle up to sleep with you. ‘Personal space’ isn’t in my thing so I expect no boundaries between us, OK!

Read more about the Sphynx

Toyger

Size: Medium, 7 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Short and dense, in tan and orange, with prominent black stripes and tiger-like patterns.
Child Friendly: Yes.
Personality: Fairly active and loves to socialize, easily gets along with other pets and tends to follow my humans around.

Toyger cat

I might look like a little tiger, but I haven’t a ferocious bone in my adorable body. In fact, I’m as easy-going and sociable as a cat can be! I love to mix and mingle with humans and other pets and my friendliness makes it easy for me to adapt to new situations.

Read more about the Toyger

Turkish Van

Size: Medium, 7 to 10 lbs.
Coat: Medium to long, fairly thick and silky, mostly white with splashes of lilac, caramel, blue, black, silver and red.
Child Friendly: Yes, but can get surly when handled roughly.
Personality: Active and very smart, inquisitive and playful, loves the water and an excellent swimmer, very affectionate, but not a lap cat.

Turkish van cat

Blessed with an easy sociability and active nature, I’m a cat that gets along with most everyone. I am a marathon runner on ground, a master at scaling heights, and so good at swimming, I’ve been dubbed the ‘Swimming Cat.’ But despite my high-flying ways, I have a sensitive side and bond very closely with my humans so make sure you can commit for the long-term before inviting me into your life.

Read more about the Turkish Van

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24 thoughts on “Cat Breeds A–Z Ultimate Guide

  1. You forgot quiet a few cats, calico, spangled, Tabby & Tuxedo cats.

    1. actually, those are not cat breeds, those are specific patterns that different breeds can have. For example,
      ?Abyssinian.
      ?Domestic Shorthair.
      ?American Bobtail.
      ?American Curl.
      ?American Shorthair.
      ?Ocicat.
      ?Oriental

      This is a list of cat breeds that can be a tabby cat, but tabby itself is not a breed, just a certain pattern. This is the same with calico and tuxedo; They are a pattern that a breed can have, but they are not a breed itself. As for if you are talking about California spangles, those are one of the most uncommon and expensive cat breeds, very few cats are even registered to be that breed so this probably excluded them from the list because they are almost impossible to get a hold of.

        1. Those are not cat breeds. Brooke is correct.
          Those are fur patterns that appear in many cat breeds. The only one on that list that is even considered a breed is the spangle but Brooke covered that.

          Tabby is a pattern that appears on many cats and is a qualifier for many breeds. Calico is a pattern exclusive to female cats(males are intersex and sterile). Tuxedo is essentially what you would call a piebald gene in cats, but is called ‘bicolored’ as opposed to piebald or pied.

          To Quote Brook: “Those are actually not breeds, just patterns that breeds can have. To say a cat is a tabby is to recognize its pattern, but not its breed.”

          So no. They are not cat breeds. Those are coat patterns.

    1. I can’t actually view it, but I can already tell you it has no breed! Less than 10% of cats in the US are purebred, and those that are are kept neutered and inside. Actual purebred mixes are even rarer than purebreds. If somebody tells you they have a purebred cat that didn’t cost 700+ dollars and come with papers, it’s HIGHLY unlikely they have anything but a domestic shorthair (or longhair). A mutt! Almost all cats are. You can, however, classify your cat by its markings. (Calico, mackerel tabby, classic tabby, black tuxedo, ect)
      Also, you do mean breed, not species. A cat’s species is always felis catus.

  2. Those are actually not breeds, just patterns that breeds can have. To say a cat is a tabby is to recognize its pattern, but not its breed. But if you mean California spangles, those cats are very uncommon, very few cats are registered under that breed and also is still not recognized as a breed to some organizations so I assume that may be the reason they left out the California spangle.

  3. I dont know what breed my kitten is.She is a tuxcedo cat with long ears and a short tail.

    1. She has no breed; she’s a domestic shorthair (aka mutt!). A cat with no papers is not purebred. Actually, Less than ten percent of cats are purebred in the US. If somebody tells you the cat they found in an alley is purebred, it’s a lie!
      “Black tuxedo domestic shorthair” is what you can say.

  4. I am pretty disappointed. One cat on this list is one I want to get sooner or later, but I was doing some research, and one cat I really want to get is the Siberian cat.

  5. I am looking for information on the Nova Gin Black Cat, green eyes, that changes color tints to red, brown or blond. She is a house cat. I was told that she looks like the Nova Gin Cat which is supposedly a rare breed. Do you have any pictures of this cat? Thank you.

  6. To list a few that arent on here: Ragamuffin (suprised that it isnt on here), Turkish Angora, American Wirehair, California Spangled (hypo allergenic), York Chocolate, Aegean(natural cat breed), Australian Mist, American Polydactal(has extra toes), Arabian Mau, Malayan(also called the asian cat), Chantillly Tiffany, Cyprus, and the Tonkinese. Plus the typical breeds of shorthair, longhair, semi-long hair, etc. Some of these dont need to be on here but a few of them reallt should. (:

    1. Hi Emma, thanks for stopping by and good point! We are getting to them…stay tuned 🙂

  7. Any good vet will be able to tell your cats breed/s… Although…
    I have an awesome Orange & White Tabby with the ears of a Forest Cat, Bengal spots on his belly and the shape of a Jungle cat (large, strong hind quarters)… what a mix… he is gorgeous
    I can’t wait for all the other breeds to be on your list…

  8. hey do you have an e-mail address that i could send a pic of my cat to so you can determine the breed? ill also give a description of his personality because i know that helps 🙂

  9. I found a kitten in a car wash, he had smokey blue eyes that are turning green and a medium length hair. white with clean light grey spots. Large grey ears with floofs inside and a tail that’s grey but slightly striped with a darker grey. he has very defined cheekbones and a thin face with big eyes. hes only 2 months old and jumps like a beast. hes long and thin with long legs

  10. I was studying some of your posts on this internet site and I conceive this website is very informative ! Keep on putting up.

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