American Shorthair
Also aboard the ships of the first European settlers in America were four-legged passengers. The cats who travelled with them were prized because of their hunting ability. During long voyages, they kept the mice and rats at bay. They were popular on land too, since they made sure there were no pesky nibblers in the grain storages. It has emerged that these cats are the ancestors of the well known and loved breed that goes by the name of “American Shorthair”.
American Wirehair
The American Shorthair and Longhair cats are well known, but who has heard of the “American Wirehair cat”? This breed is very rare in America and almost unheard of in Europe. The American Wirehair remains an intriguing cat, which, like countless other breeds, was the result of a random genetic mutation. Read on to find out about this mysterious cat breed from New York!
Australian Mist
The Australian Mist is the only cat breed from the Australian continent. Bred from the Burmese, Abyssinian and domestic cats, this gentle and trusting cat breed is ideally suited as a domestic cat. The name of these Australian felines is inspired by their typical fur markings, which look as if the cat had been covered by a light fog.
Bengal
The Bengal is a truly unique cat breed. Initially they were a cross between Asian Leopard cats and domestic cats. However, fertility issues of male cats in the first to third generation led to first generation females being mated with domestic cats again.
British Longhair
Are you looking for a long-haired cat capable of adapting comfortably to life in a human household? The British Longhair is just such a cat, often known as the “Highlander”, and the semi long-haired variety of the British Shorthair. It has a friendly, balanced nature and a fairly low activity drive.
Burmese
The “Good Luck Cat” – this description of the Burmese cat from its original Thai homeland describes the breed perfectly! These chatterboxes love humans and spend their lives playing and frolicking!
Caracat
Many people admire the beauty and elegance of wild cats. This stirs desires, with some cat lovers keen to have a miniature version of such an exotic specimen in their home. This desire for something special forms the basis for numerous hybrid breeds. The Caracat is one of these, but breeding is problematic.
Chausie
The Chausie is a hybrid breed with a cross between domestic and jungle cats. It is said to combine the proud appearance of wild cats with the loyal and people-focused nature of domestic cats. The rare Chausie has well-defined cheekbones and has maintained its ancestors' desire for exercise and freedom to this day.
Cymric Cat
The Cymric cat originally comes from the Isle of Man, a British island. It is closely related to the Manx cat but has longer fur. Its most striking characteristic is its lack of a tail.
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a rare cat breed that can easily be distinguished from others thanks to its appearance. It was bred to have a flat skull shape with extremely large protruding ears and very big eyes. Whilst initial reaction to the Devon Rex was lukewarm, it later gained approval due to its very special physical features. Since 1968, these special cats with an unusual appearance have been recognised by the “Féderation Internationale Féline” (FiFe). Because of its pleasant character, the Devon Rex is a typical family cat and is also very well suited for being kept in an apartment. Perhaps you will soon make one part of your own home?
Exotic Shorthair
Do you love Garfield? Then the Exotic Shorthair is just the right cat for you. After all, it is a recreation of this snuggly, lazy but very loving TV tomcat with short, stocky legs and a large, short-nosed head.
German Longhair Cat
The German Longhair is an extremely rare cat breed. This is actually unfair, because these attractive cats love the company of people and are straightforward to keep. As the name states, the breed originates from Germany. Special features are its long shiny fur and a harmonious physique.
Himalayan
The cuddly Himalayan came about through pairing Siamese and Persian cats. The striking point colouration in the face has given it the name “Persian in disguise”. In addition, the term “Colourpoint Persian” is occasionally used. Some class the Himalayan as an independent breed, whilst others sees it as a special variation on the Persian.
Javanese
The Javanese is a semi-longhaired cat and is also known as the Oriental Longhair (OLH) or Mandarin. A slender body, wedge-shaped head with large ears and silky fur are typical of this cat breed. Javanese cats are very cuddly and playful.
LaPerm
The cat with a perm: Still a young cat breed, the LaPerm resulted from an accidental genetic mutation and is primarily characterised by its unique curly coat. Not just its soft curls, but its people-focused and affectionate character make it a perfect cat for cuddling.
Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest cat emerged in its land of origin, Norway, free of human influence and wins hearts with its wild looks and genuine character. The Norwegian is original in more than just its appearance!
Ocicat
With its exotic appearance, the Ocicat casts an immediate and lasting spell over people. Due to its speckled fur, its name is derived from a wildcat called Ozelot. In terms of its nature, however, the Ocicat isn't wild at all, but extremely affectionate and loyal, making it a popular domestic cat.
Oriental Shorthair (OSH)
Things certainly won't be boring with an Oriental Shorthair, also known as the OSH. These intelligent, lively cats with big ears need plenty of attention and don't like being alone. In return, they reward their human family with lots of affection.
Persian
The fluffy Persian is one of the most popular cat breeds in existence. It is surprising that these cats called “Gorbe-ye irāni” (Iranian cat) in Persian are one of the oldest cat breeds, although the Persian as we know it today doesn't even come from the Orient.
Peterbald
Furless cats trigger very different reactions. But the Peterbald, a cat breed also found in a hairless variety, cares little about this: with its friendly nature, it effortlessly wins over cat lovers across the world.
Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is one of the few cat breeds with curly hair. Its unusual look and gentle character has led to it conquering the hearts of cat lovers.
Serval
Servals aren't domestic cats, but wild cats from the African savannah. In this article however, we would still like to introduce you to this interesting cat. After all, it is the ancestor of the Savannah, a very modern but primal cat breed.
Siamese
Along with the Persian, the Siamese is one of the oldest and most famous cat breeds. It originates from Southeast Asia, specifically from Siam, which nowadays belongs to Thailand, where it was worshipped as a temple cat. Towards the end of the 19th century, the first Siamese cats came to Britain and were bred there as pedigree cats. In 1882, the first breed standard for the Siamese was established. Since 1927, Siamese cats have been officially bred in Germany too. Breeding began all over the world not much later.
Snowshoe
Originally from the US, the Snowshoe certainly has lots of fans thanks to its interesting appearance and unique character. There are always sweet surprises with a litter of Snowshoe kittens: at the time of their birth, they are still entirely white and only show different colouration as they develop. The first colours are visible around ten days after these beautiful creatures are born.
Somali
If you love Abyssinian cats but would prefer a feline friend slightly longer hair, then the Somali cat could be right up your street!
Tonkinese
Despite its famous progenitors, the Burmese and Siamese, the Tonkinese is a relatively rare cat breed. With their slim, muscular body and short fur, these attractive cats combine many positive characteristics of their ancestors. Affectionate, sociable and curious, they are excellent for families that wish to spend a lot of time with their pet.