Short-haired Cat breeds:

“For Kasia, Michelle, Natalie and Chloe” for being an inspiration for this post!

Whoever know me, knows exactly that im nor a cat person. I love dogs with all my heart. But since I love all animals, I have decided that cats deserve some love too. So, I dd some research, and that is the result. For me, personally it is a learning process, because I had truly little to zero idea about overwhelming world of cats. So im learning, as im writing this post for you.  The International Cat Association, the world’s largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, recognizes seventy-one different kinds. There is a lot to choose from.

Which cat breed to choose?

Domestic cat breeds can be remarkably diverse. Some, such as Persians and British, are calm and gentle, and prefer lounging on the couch to crazy games. Other breeds of domestic cats, such as the Scottish Fold, Ragdoll and Tonkinese love to be stroked and could spend the whole day on a person’s lap. Among the breeds of domestic cats, you can also find more active cats in need of a lot of fun – Siamese cats, sphinxes and Devon Rex cats – as well as breeds of cats that only walk their own paths, such as the Norwegian forest cat and the Nebelung cat. Therefore, anyone who dreams of a purebred cat will find a breed that will meet his needs and find himself in his lifestyle.

What is a purebred cat?

The breed of a cat is not only about its appearance – it is also a documented origin. Each purebred cat must have a pedigree that proves that its ancestors also came from breeding. If you want to buy a purebred cat, you must avoid pseudo-breeding. Unfortunately, many of the most beautiful breeds of domestic cats have already fallen victim to pseudo-breeders, who often breed sick, closely related cats with each other only for profit. If we choose a purebred cat, we should choose a reliable and registered kennel or other international felinology (branch of science, all about cats) organization that requires breeders to look after their animals and test them for hereditary diseases. All breeds of cats from good breeding should be sold with a pedigree and a health booklet confirming current vaccinations and tests.

Large breeds of cats

The largest breeds of domestic cats are immensely popular among cat lovers. They are extremely effective and arouse admiration in many people. The breeds of large cats are mainly long-haired cats – Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat and Siberian Cat. They can weigh up to 40 pounds. These breeds often have a calm character and an almost doggy disposition. Among the largest breeds of cats, you can also find crosses with other species, including serval or wild mud cat, i.e. savannah, Asher and Chausie cats. These breeds of domestic cats can be difficult in nature due to the admixture of “wild blood” and are also extremely expensive. Large cat breeds also include more popular breeds, such as the British and Ragdoll cats, which can grow up to 25 pounds.

Small breeds of cats

The smallest breeds of domestic cats include, above all, breeds not recognized by the Cat Organization.  These are usually new, miniaturized cat breeds that have been created over the last few decades. Small breeds of cats are extremely expensive and can bear numerous genetic defects. The smallest cat breed is the Miniature Persian, which as an adult fits into a cup. The second known miniature is a toy bobtail, which looks like a three-month-old kitten all its life. The slightly larger, but still small breeds of cats are Singapore and Cornish Rex – they are the healthiest of the small breeds and can weigh up to 8 pounds. Extremally interesting breed of domestic cat is the Munchkin cat, which due to the mutation has extremely short paws. Small breeds of cats are a remarkably diverse group – they include both lively, always eager to play kittens, and more serious, sleep loving ones.

Scottish fold (short-haired) – This breed of cats characterized by a mutation that causes the ears to collapse forward. These cats are playful and sociable by nature but are controversial due to the anomaly that the drooping ear gene can cause. Apart from short-haired, there are also long-haired folds. Their round body, with soft, thick fur and a rounded head with big, astonished eyes, give this cat the look of a teddy bear. Medium in size, the Scottish Fold’s body is semi-cobby (cobby type is comprised of a compact body, a deep chest, short legs, and a broad head),   and rounded with a strong bone structure and powerful musculature, carried by well-muscled legs which are slightly shorter than the length of the body. Their tails are extremely flexible, medium in length, and have a very thick base that tapers towards a rounded end. The head is broad, with rounded contours, a short, wide nose, full cheeks and very full whisker pads. They have large eyes which are giving them a remarkable expressiveness. The ears are small, broad at the base, rounded at the end and bent forward. There is a distinction between two types of fold: the simple fold (ears folded from the middle) and the double fold (ears completely flattened on the head).

Abyssinian – This is one of the oldest, ancient breed has roots in Africa. Known for his curiosity, this kitty is a loyal family cat that will follow the kids around all day long. What is known is that the Abyssinian breed was developed and refined in Britain and the first Abyssinian cats arrived in the United States in the early 1900s. With almond-shaped eyes and a ticked, short-haired coat that comes in a variety of colors, the breed resembles a small mountain lion or cougar.  The athletic cat is also very fond of high perches and likes to explore, so keep that in mind.  The Abyssinian is an extremely active breed, very curious and very smart.

American Shorthair – Related to the British Shorthair, this feline offers classic cat features including a nice, round head. You can scratch this cat’s chin, and he will purr with delight. You might also set him free in your basement, as he will probably catch the mouse! Ancestors of the American Shorthair cat are considered indigenous to North America. At first glance, the muscular, medium-sized breed may resemble an unremarkable domestic cat, but the breed does have its own specific look. American Shorthair is known for its wide-set eyes, rounded ears, and a square-shaped muzzle, as well as for its adaptable, easygoing and affectionate nature, she says. The American Shorthair’s coat is short and dense, and comes in many colors and patterns, with brown tabby being particularly popular.

Manx – He’s short-haired, but his double coat seems longer and thicker than others’ in this category. The Manx cat enjoys a healthy, long life and is friendly, making him a good pick for a family pet. They catch the eye with their unusual body structure, considered by some to be quite funny. These cats have a slightly longer back legs than the front ones, so they walk bent forward like rabbits. In place of the tail, they sometimes grow a small, two to three centimeter long equivalent. For this reason, sometimes they were considered sacred animals, other times they were strange, which could become a circus attraction, such as women with a beard. Despite the challenging appearance, and some genetical disturbances, Manx cats find a lot of lovers all over the world. Mainly because they are exceptionally friendly and sometimes, they resemble a stereotypical dog. They like to go for a walk with the owner and drive a car. Friendly and calm, they appreciate the company of even small pets or children.

Oriental Shorthair – If you think there is something familiar about this cat, then you are right. Its closely related to the Siamese breed. This kitty is lovely, both in terms of looks and personality — and she meows rather loudly! Oriental Shorthair cats are basically Siamese cats but without the distinctive cream and black coloring. In fact, Orientals come in a wide variety of fur color, making them a beautiful and diverse breed of kitty. Like the Siamese though, they need lots of attention and care. Oriental Shorthairs love to be the center of attention. If you love lavishing attention on your pets, the Oriental Shorthair cat will adore you. They are fiercely loyal and can even become jealous if you are fussing another cat, or not giving them enough love. If they feel unloved, they can become moody and unhappy. Shower your Oriental with attention and they will follow you around your home, chatting with you and trying to “help” you with your daily tasks. Orientals are highly intelligent, and you may find drawers open and bags emptied as their natural curiosity takes over. Make time to play with your Oriental as they need stimulation as well as love and affection. Shiny toys and climbing centers will help keep this cat mentally and physically healthy.

Russian Blue – Classic features, a regal gaze and that blue-gray coat, which appears to be sprinkled with silver, are the distinctive features of this short-haired cat. The Russian Blue has a mind of his own and may not tolerate teasing, especially coming from kids. This cat loves to cuddle. Quiet and reserved, the Russian Blue will be the perfect companion to anyone that will offer their time and a tranquil home. This cat is not designed for a hectic and busy life. Russian Blues are elegant cats with graceful and muscular bodies. Their small round feet tip their long, thin legs. Their tails are thick at the base, and gradually narrow into a thin point. The corners of their mouths are slightly raised, giving them their charming smiles.

Bombay – If you are searching for a cat with a friendly demeanor that loves people (and even a few dogs), look no further. Named for the city in India, the Bombay combines the easy-going nature of the American Shorthair with the curious, loving personality of the social Burmese. Breeder in Kentucky began developing the breed in the 1950s by crossing a black American Shorthair with an ebony Burmese to produce a sleek, muscular cat with gold or copper-colored eyes and a glossy black coat. The breed’s short-haired coat is “like a panther – deep black”. Although the breed may look wild, the Bombay loves to be around people and is good with both children and other pets, including other cats. In fact, the highly social Bombay will be unhappy being left alone for long periods of time, so having another cat or a dog in the house would be a plus.

Bengal – This name says it all.  He is a little tiger in appearance. Bengals are highly intelligent and responsive to training (much like a dog). These cats turn heads with their beauty and boundless energy. They combine grace and elegance, and no one can ignore these beautiful cats. When you buy a Bengal, you must be prepared to live with a small tornado! If you like peace and quiet, you probably should not buy this specific cat.  On the other hand, if you are prepared to face up to the storm, you will have an incredible time with this small sized tiger, and they guarantee hours of play and laughter!

Siamese – A lush coat and (often) remarkable blue eyes make this shorthair a real beauty. The Siamese breed loves affection and attention, so she is a great pick for a family with kids. With vibrant blue eyes and two-color fur pattern, the Siamese is instantly recognizable. The breed officially surfaced in the West in England in 1871 at a cat show. Highly social and people oriented, the Siamese is “very talkative and has a distinctive voice”. The breed is also known for the color of its points (the cat’s ears, mask, legs and tail), set against a lighter body color.

Tonkinese – If you are hoping for a cat with a cheerful attitude who loves children, this cat is for you. The Tonkinese is a cross between the Siamese and the Burmese breeds and was developed in the 1960s. Although the breed is best known for its striking tan-colored coat and aqua eyes, the Tonkinese also comes in a range of colors that spans the variety of point colors found in the Siamese and the solid colors of the Burmese. Its eyes may also be other shades of blue as well as green and yellow, Tonkinese is “a laid-back, relaxed kitty”. He loves to play but is happiest during quiet times and is really a cuddly lap cat at heart.  Tonkinese is chatty and demanding of attention.

Domestic short-haired cat – Legendary charm, silky fur, a mysterious gaze… Over the thousands of years following their domestication, the cat has become a staple companion, illuminating the lives of millions of humans around the world. Their intelligence, toughness and adaptability are certainly to thank for their biological success. Today, more than forty breeds are recognized for having common domestic cat as an ancestor. Thanks to their diversity, domestic cat has won the hearts of humans … black or white, striped or plain, bushy or flat, essentially any type of coat is possible. This common cat is found in almost all the regions of the world, except for the northern and southern poles.

British Shorthair – One of the oldest breeds of English cats, the British Shorthair is known as the Winston Churchill of the cat world due to its heavy jowls, big bones and dignified air. “It’s a very stocky, heavy-boned cat”. The British Shorthair has changed little over the centuries. The British Shorthair is an affectionate, loyal family pet that quietly rules the household. The calm breed is tolerant of children and other animals but is also satisfied with its own company. It is renowned for its short, extremely dense coat that comes in most colors. The British Shorthair’s chubby cheeks and prominent, rounded whisker pads create what appears to be a smile.  The famous Lewis Carroll’s Cheshire Cat, from “Alice in Wonderland”, was model on this kitty.

Burmilla – This muscular yet elegant cat has two distinctive features: its eyes, which can be any shade of green, and a silver-white coat that can be shaded or tipped in a range of colors. The Burmilla, which is still a relatively rare breed in the United States, also comes in a semi-longhair version. The breed merges the challenging and playful nature of the Burmese and the easy-going temperament of the Chinchilla Persian, with the result being an irresistibly playful and affectionate cat. “The Burmilla is very pleasant and wonderful with children”.

Chartreux – Unofficially known as the national cat of France, which history goes back centuries. Its origins are subject to several tales. The breed might be descended from cats that served as mousers and companions to Carthusian monks known for making Chartreuse liqueur. The Chartreux is known for its orange eyes and solid, muscular build in addition to its thin nose, and lips that turns up at the corners, giving the Chartreux a smiling expression. The breed earned a nickname “a potato on toothpicks” because it has a robust body with fine-boned legs, she says. The Chartreux has a quiet, reserved personality but also excels at hunting small prey. The bulky, muscular and powerful body gives them the appearance of a teddy bear. Their large yellow eyes stand out on their rounded face, and their famous coat is thick, woolly and waterproof.

Havana – The Havana has bright green eyes and glossy brown coat. The breed, which is usually a rich mahogany color, originated in England but the name may be a reference to the color of the tobacco in a Havana cigar, Hogan says. In the 1950s, British cat breeders bred chocolate Siamese with pitch black domestic shorthairs. As a result, this unique chestnut-brown cat came to life. Primarily called the Chestnut Foreign Shorthair, which was later changed to the Havana. In addition to brown, the breed also comes in lilac. The Havana loves human companionship and gets along well with other cats, dogs and children. The breed is moderately active compared to other shorthaired breeds and will be playful and full of energy one moment and napping the next.

Thai – “Old School Siamese”. Refined and improved Siamese cat, being closed to the original, less stylized version. the Thai is highly intelligent, people-oriented, active and curious. With deep blue eyes, a pale-beige body and dark-colored points, the Thai has a more moderate look than the modern Siamese breed. Thai began to diverge from the Siamese breed in the 1950s.

Ocicat – The Ocicat is an all-domestic breed of cat which resembles a wild cat, but it does not have any single wild gene in his body.  The breed is rare in that sense, as spotted like a wild cat but with the temperament of a domestic animal. It is named for its resemblance to the ocelot. The breed was established from the Siamese and Abyssinian. American Shorthair was also added to the original crosses. This mix of breeds created a healthy, large breed of cat completely different in type and appearance from the source breeds.

Egyptian Mau – The Egyptian Mau looks like an ancient Egyptian artwork has come to life. It is a natural breed, that was created by Mother Nature, without any human involvement.  Their statuary look, green eyes, their elegant power, calm and obedient temperament could explain why the pharaohs worshipped these cats. Their back legs are longer than their front, they seem to move on their tiptoes with the balance of a cheetah. A flap of skin between the belly and the leg is characteristic of the breed. The Egyptian Mau is recognized as the fastest domestic cat, with recorded speeds of more than 29 mph! Another characteristic of Egyptian Mau is its face. The markings around the eyes resemble features of Khôl, the iconic makeup of the Egyptians. The eyes of this cheetah stand out thanks to their green color, but also due to their shape and position, which is responsible for their adorable worried look.

Colorpoint Shorthairs – are a variety of domestic cat. These cats are distinguished by their compliance sixteen different point colors, beyond the four standard Siamese colors. The variety was initially created by crossbreeding Siamese with the American Shorthair. Dedicated and loyal to their people. Sensitive to their owner’s moods, Colorpoint are more than happy to sit at your side or on your lap. Just like the Siamese, are talkative and want to discuss their day with anyone who will listen. If you do not want to pay attention to them, they will insist, following you around the house chattering away in their somewhat hoarse voice. They are highly intelligent and easily learn to play games such as fetch. An item as simple as a wad of paper or as sophisticated as a stuffed mouse will become the object of their full attention as they demand that you throw it for them to bring back to you.

Korat – is a silver-tipped blue-grey, short-haired breed of domestic cat with a small to medium build and a very lean body. It is an intelligent and playful. This active cat that forms strong bonds with people. Among the Korat’s distinguishing characteristics are its heart-shaped head and large green eyes. The Korat is a natural breed, and one of the oldest stable cat breeds. Originating in Phimai, Thailand, it is named after province of Nakhon Ratchasima Province (called “Korat” by the local people). The Korat is known as the “good luck cat”.  Traditionally, they are given in pairs to newlyweds or people who are highly respected, for good luck. Until recently, Korats were not sold, but only given as gifts.

American Wirehair – American Wirehairs look a lot like their short-haired cousins (The American Shorthair). They have a semi-cobby body type and therefore are a little more rectangular than they are long, have a muscular and broad chest, medium-sized bone structure and are well proportioned from the tip of their nose to the end of the tail. They have the same square nose and well-spaced eyes. Their most distinguishing characteristic (that gives them the name) is obviously their short and dense coat! They have three types of hair: a topcoat, secondary coat and undercoat. All these layers of hair are curly, frizzy, hard or curved, and form a hook at the end. To the touch, some say that their texture is rough and prickly in places, however they are relatively soft to the touch.

Devon Rex – The Devon Rex has slender legs, muscular body and tail. But its curly hair is more reminiscent of a Poodle or a sheep. It has large, round ears, just bats. This cat is incredibly unique in its appearance. The Devon Rex has a small to average sized, muscular body. Its slim legs give it a slender look, especially with its short curly hair, which is as soft as silk. Its atypical head, small with huge ears gives it a slightly alien look that is sure to make you smile.

Exotic shorthair – The Exotic, or Exotic Shorthair, has the look of a teddy bear. Its dense hair is irresistible to the touch, they look like a ball and their attitude is gentle and quiet.  They adapt to all kinds of home, with a preference for cozy apartments that are full of toys.  Round, cobby type, the body forms a short and rounded rectangle. They are muscular, with a robust frame and their weight may surprise you. Their legs are short and powerful. The tail is shorter than average, but in proportion with the body and very dense. The head is round, ears are small, round and quite low on the skull. Their eyes are very round and shiny. The nose is wide, but noticeably short with a very pronounced stop, which makes their profile almost flat. Finally, they are covered with a dense coat, short and very thick, like that of a soft toy, which accentuates their rounded look even more!

Savannah Cat – the Savannah cat is a hybrid created by breeding together domestic cat and a Serval, wild African cat.  They have an athletically build body, walk with grace and kept all the charming attitude they African ancestors.  They got the best from both words since they show characteristic treats equally from both breeds. A slender body, with long legs, smaller head a large eyes. But the unique coat, is the biggest selling point.

Munchkin – named after the film “The Wizard of Oz”, little people with small short legs.  Munchkins are built for speed and agility. They run around all over the place and sneak into the tightest of corners. They are also famous for their exceptional ability to turn on a dime despite their peculiar shape. These little bundles of joy are by no means troubled by their small size. Their tiny legs do not hold them back, and they are quite capable of jumping.

Toyger – The Toyger is a new breed that is still evolving. Everything in their appearance makes them look like a miniature tiger: a powerful body with tiger-colored fur on an orange base, a long and ringed tail carried low and a swaying gait like big cats. This is nevertheless a sweet and affectionate cat, playful and calm at the same time, with a great capacity to adapt. Average in size, they have a long, strong and robust body, with clear muscles, a deep chest, and an exceptionally long tail with a rounded tip. Their legs are of medium length, the head is also of average size. The ears are small and are sometimes endowed with curls. The rounded eyes are small to medium in size, sunken, with a slightly bulging upper eyelid.

Snowshoe – Inspired by cats from the Victorian era, the Snowshoe is an American cat whose white paws look like little shoes for walking in the snow (that is how the name came to be). They remain quite rare today, but are gaining in popularity year after year, thanks to being such great companions.  They are talkative and loveable, and they fit well into family life. And they will do whatever they can to get their way! Average in size, Snowshoes are known for their slender appearance and their strong muscular structure. They have a triangular head with rounded sides, and their nose and ears are medium in size. Their short coat is soft to the touch and the color pattern is the Colorpoint kind, although there are two variations: one has a white inverted “V” on their face and the other has four white paws.

American bobtail – The American Bobtail is the result of a genetic mutation. The breed appeared spontaneously, with no human intervention. American Bobtail is a medium to large, semi-cobby cat. Their sturdy bone structure and well-developed musculature, along with their broad chest and slightly arched back (his back legs are longer than the front ones), give them the appearance of a small Lynx. Their head is broad with renowned cheeks and a strong chin, and a triangular-shaped gag a little wider than it is long. Their eyes are big and slightly almond-shaped. The variety with mid-length fur also have clusters of fur between the toes. But the main feature of this cat is of course their tail! Never absent, but always noticeably short. It is covered with long, thick and shaggy fur. It is also extremely expressive and will hide nothing about the emotional state of its owner. cd