Types of Cat Breeds

There are around 70 recognized cat breeds, though the exact number can vary depending on the organization or registry. Two of the most widely recognized organizations that define and categorize cat breeds are:

1. The International Cat Association (TICA), which recognizes around 73 breeds.
2. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), which recognizes about 44 breeds.

These breeds can differ in terms of physical appearance, temperament, and behavior, but all share common traits that make them distinctly “cats.”

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognizes 44 breeds, ranging from long-haired beauties to sleek, short-haired cats. Here’s a quick list of some of the popular ones:

1. Abyssinian – Known for its sleek, short coat and playful, active personality.
2. Persian – Famous for its long, luxurious fur and calm, affectionate demeanor.
3. Maine Coon – One of the largest domestic cat breeds, with a friendly and social personality.
4. Siamese – Sleek, with a striking color pattern, they are known for being vocal and affectionate.
5. Ragdoll – Large, gentle cats with soft, semi-long fur, known for their relaxed, “floppy” nature when picked up.
6. British Shorthair – A sturdy breed with a round face and plush coat, often seen in a blue (gray) color.
7. Sphynx – A hairless breed with wrinkled skin, known for being social and affectionate despite its appearance.
8. Scottish Fold – Recognizable for their unique folded ears, these cats are typically calm and loving.
9. Bengal – A wild-looking breed with leopard-like markings, known for its energy and intelligence.
10. Birman – A beautiful breed with a silky coat, blue eyes, and a friendly temperament.

Popular short-haired cat breeds

Short-haired cats are easier to groom and generally shed less than long-haired breeds. The most popular short-haired breeds in the U.S.:

• Domestic Shorthair — the all-American mixed-breed cat. Personality varies, lifespan 12-18 years, very low-maintenance grooming.
• American Shorthair — friendly, easygoing, great with kids. Famous for the silver tabby coat.
• British Shorthair — calm, dignified, and famously chunky. The “Cheshire Cat” smile breed.
• Russian Blue — quiet, intelligent, hypoallergenic for some sensitive owners. Soft blue-grey coat.
• Bengal — high-energy, athletic, leopard-spotted coat. Best for active households.
• Siamese — vocal, affectionate, deeply bonded to their humans. Striking blue eyes and color points.
• Burmese — playful and people-oriented. Loves to be carried and held.
• Abyssinian — curious, athletic, loves climbing. Distinctive ticked coat.

Popular long-haired cat breeds

• Maine Coon — gentle giants. Often 15-25 lbs, dog-like personalities, surprisingly low-key.
• Persian — the classic flat-faced beauty. Calm, sweet, requires daily brushing.
• Ragdoll — earned the name because they go limp when held. Affectionate, mellow, indoor-only.
• Norwegian Forest Cat — built for cold weather, double coat, friendly and adventurous.
• Birman — silky coat, blue eyes, gentle and loyal.
• Himalayan — Persian crossed with Siamese. Calm, sweet, color-point pattern.

Hairless and unusual breeds

• Sphynx — the famously hairless cat. Warm, social, surprisingly active. Needs regular bathing.
• Devon Rex / Cornish Rex — short, curly coats. Playful, mischievous, often called “monkey-like.”
• Munchkin — short-legged. Generally healthy and very social.

How to pick the right breed for your home

Match your lifestyle:

• Apartment dwellers — British Shorthair, Persian, Russian Blue (calm, quiet breeds)
• Active households — Bengal, Abyssinian, Maine Coon
• Families with kids — Ragdoll, American Shorthair, Maine Coon
• Allergy-prone owners — Russian Blue, Sphynx, Siberian (lower allergen output)
• First-time cat owners — Domestic Shorthair, Ragdoll, British Shorthair

Caring for any cat: the basics

Regardless of breed, cats need annual vet checkups, fresh water daily, balanced nutrition, mental stimulation, and a clean litter box. Curious about toys? Read our take on why cats react to squeaky toys — it’s all about prey drive.

For senior cats or cats with anxiety (yes, cats get anxious too), our wild Alaskan salmon CBD treats are formulated specifically for feline metabolisms. The CBD dosage reference includes a starting amount for cats.

From the Golden Pet Life store

Related reading

• Do cats like squeaky toys?
• What the studies show about CBD for pets