The International Cat Association recognizes 71 official breeds. Over the millennia, these breeds have undergone several changes due to climate, environment and crossbreeding.
Today, some of the most popular domestic cat breeds are the Siamese, Persian and Himalayan, which can be found in many parts of the world. More exotic breeds, such as the Sphynx and Angora, have also gained a lot of popularity among pet lovers.
Siamese
One of the oldest domesticated cat breeds in the world is also one of the most popular in Brazil. The Siamese breed originated in Thailand and dates back to the 14th century. Most cats of this breed have a lighter coat along the body mixed with shades of brown, black and caramel on the face and paws.
One of the advantages of the Siamese cat is that they are more sociable than other cat breeds, getting along well with family, children and sometimes strangers. In addition to essential veterinary care, Siamese cats also need grooming care. Veterinarians suggest weekly brushing to keep them silky smooth.
Angora
Of Turkish origin, Angora cats have records dating back to the 17th century. Cats of this breed are recognized for their long and bulky hair, which deserves daily attention. It is common to find Angora cats with heterochromia, that is, having eyes with different colors, which makes them even more beautiful and exotic.
Persian
The Persian breed is one of the most popular, both in Brazil and in the rest of the world. Some research points out that this breed dates back thousands of years and could be found more easily in the Middle East. Throughout history, this breed has become a favorite gift for travelers. It was common for members of royalty and aristocracy to win kittens of this breed as a gift.
The Persian cat is an animal that needs a lot of special care. In addition to frequent brushing to avoid knots in the fur of the kittens, eye care is also essential, as they tend to tear a lot.
Himalayas
The Himalayan breed emerged from the crossing of two other very popular cat breeds, the Siamese and the Persian. This breed was created in the 1930s, so it is considered a newer breed. Very popular around the world, these kittens combine some of the best characteristics related to the Persian and the Siamese.
It is one of the favorite breeds for families, as they have a docile and playful personality. Himalayan care goes far beyond fur. They also need a balanced diet so they don't become overweight.
English Shorthair Cat
Of British origin, the English Shorthair Cat is a breed of cats with gray fur that are very successful all over the world. Some scholars believe it is the oldest cat breed in the world, with records dating back 2000 years of existence.
The personality of these kittens is also one of the reasons for their popularity. They are great companions, smart and calm, which has made them one of the favorite breeds when it comes to putting kittens in movies, television shows or TV commercials.
Sphynx
Of Canadian origin, the Sphynx breed emerged through the crossing of cats that were born hairless in North America in the 1960s. At first, it was named Moon Cats and Nude Canadian.
Over the years, it has gained a lot of popularity around the world for its exotic appearance. Hairless and very robust, the Sphynx also has a personality different from other cats. They are very affectionate and can become possessive of their owners. The greatest care with this breed is in relation to its skin, therefore, veterinary assistance is essential for anyone wishing to adopt or buy a Sphynx kitten.
Russian blue
The Russian Blue cat breed has a dark gray double coat and usually has intense yellow eyes. They are cats that are a little more shy and less social, being preferred by people who live alone.
Because this breed is hypoallergenic, it is also a favorite for families with children with certain types of allergies. It is a very resistant breed that does not have many genetic problems, but veterinary monitoring is essential to maintain the cat's quality of life.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is the longest domesticated cat breed in the world, measuring up to one meter in length. They are extremely popular on the internet and their history dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
Despite their size, these cats are extremely docile and adaptable to different environments. You can find Maine Coon cats in different colors such as white, black, gray and yellow.
Siberian
The Siberian cat breed has a millenary history in Russia, but they were only officially recognized by the World Federation of Cats in the late 1980s. They can weigh up to 9 kg and have a voluminous coat that deserves care and frequent brushing.
Very popular around the world, the Siberian is also recognized for being a sociable and docile breed, being as affectionate as a puppy.
Brazilian Shorthair Cat
First breed of Brazilian cat recognized by the International Federation of Cats, the Brazilian Short Hair was actually brought by Europeans during colonization and adapted over the centuries in the country.
We can find it in different colors and sizes, being a little less robust than other breeds from Europe. However, they are strong and muscular cats and have fewer health problems compared to other cat breeds.
Scottish Fold
Of Scottish origin, the Scottish Fold is a popular breed of cat that can be found in many parts of the world. This breed has a unique feature, which are the ears folded forward. This is due to a gene that affects your cartilage.
Due to its exotic appearance, the breed has become a favorite around the world. The Scottish Fold can have a long or short coat. They are playful and great companions for all types of families.
Ragdoll
One of the largest domestic cat breeds found around the world, the Ragdoll (translated as rag doll) can weigh up to 9 kg. Despite their size and weight, cats of this breed are considered the most docile and companions of all cat breeds.
The Ragdoll's personality resembles that of a dog, as they follow their owners everywhere, welcome them at home and love to sleep together.
Exotic
Very similar to the Persian, the Exotic breed was the result of a cross between the Persian, the English Shorthair and the American Shorthair. With a docile and kind temperament, this breed is a great option for any family.
It is a very silent cat that differs from the others by its flattened face and large, rounded eyes. Due to the shape of their faces, these kittens can have breathing problems and need veterinary assistance for their well-being.
Burmese
Also known as Sacred Burmese, the Burmese cat breed originates from France. There are several mythological stories related to this ancient race, including the cults of the Goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse.
The Birman has medium hair and another feature that makes them very distinctive is the white color on their paws, as if they were wearing gloves. They are docile and sociable cats that need attention from their owners throughout their lives.
chartreux
Silent, calm and peaceful, Chartreux cats are excellent companions for all types of families. They are independent, but may ask for affection from time to time. They have a medium gray coat, which in cat breeds can be considered blue.
Some scholars believe these cats were brought to France from the Middle East in the 16th century and bred by monks around Paris.
Abyssinian Cat
Of Ethiopian origin, the Abyssinian is a medium-sized breed that is very easy to care for. They believe that their origin is millenary, as they resemble the sacred cats of the pharaohs of Egypt. They have pointed ears and come in many colors.
They are active cats that love to play throughout the day. Although they have a short coat that doesn't need as much brushing, they do like to be brushed.
ภาษาไทย
The Thai cat is very similar to the Siamese, however, over the centuries these two breeds have undergone morphological changes that end up distinguishing them. In its native language, the meaning of the official name is diamond moon, due to its characteristic large bluish eyes.
Like the Siamese, the Thai is very playful, loves company, brushing and playing. His muscular body is also an advantage, not having many genetic health problems throughout his life.
