What are the most common popular cat breeds in the United States?
The Cat Fanciers’ Association is an organization that tracks the popularity of all breeds of cats.
Here’s a list of the most popular cat breeds in the United States, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association.
1. Oriental
2. Persian
3. Maine Coon
4. Norwegian Forest Cat
5. Siberian
1• Oriental
Oriental shorthair cats are sociable, intelligent, and inquisitive felines who enjoy being around people and other animals. Learn more about how to live with this fascinating breed.
History:
While it's easy to picture these regal, statuesque cats hanging out with Cleopatra, the Oriental shorthair is a new breed. They were created in the 1950s when English breeders began combining Siamese cats with other domestic cats (due to the decline of Siamese cats after World War II).
According to the CFA Oriental Breed Council, the first Oriental shorthair cats were black hybrids (a solid black cat with both Siamese and non-Siamese ancestry) and Russian blues.
Siamese cats were bred with a variety of breeds, resulting in a wide range of colors and patterns that were considered their breed. However, because there were so many different colors and patterns, the cats were eventually grouped into a single breed: the Persian cat. Short-haired Oriental.
Oriental shorthairs didn't arrive in the United States until the 1970s, but they made an immediate impact. The Oriental shorthair became extremely popular in the United States only a few years after its arrival. The Cat Fanciers' Association recognized them in 1977.
Health:
The average lifespan of an Oriental shorthair is 12–15 years, but some can live much longer. However, as with all breeds, there are some health concerns to be aware of.
Oriental shorthairs, like the Abyssinian, Siamese, and Balinese breeds, are susceptible to Amyloidosis. This is a serious condition in which amyloid (an abnormal protein) deposits in tissues and organs, according to the Oriental Cat Association.
Care:
Because of their easy-to-care-for coats, Oriental shorthair cats may be more popular than their longhair cousins. Brushing your dog regularly will bring out his sleek coat and help with shedding, which occurs all year. A cat bath or wipe-down now and then also brings out the best in their coats.
2• Persian cat:
Persian cats are known for their long, flowing coats and round, pansy-like faces. They are sweet-tempered and loving. Find out everything you need to know about Persian cats.
Persian cats have been snuggling up with their owners since the 1600s, making them one of the most well-known and adored cat breeds on the planet. It's difficult to resist the allure of a Persian with its long, flowing coats, thick bodies, and flat faces.
Persian cats are a medium-sized breed that takes their role as a loving companion very seriously, and they're always willing to be stroked and fussed over at any time. When introduced as kittens, this lovely kitty comes in a variety of colors and color combinations, and they get along with all family members (including other furry ones). You won't find a more loving companion if you're willing to put in the effort with grooming—and it's a lot of work.
History:
No one knows exactly when or where the very first Persian cat turned up, but in the 1600s, these long-haired beauties were being brought to Europe from modern-day Iran, which was then Persia. By the 1800s, they were introduced into Britain, where early versions were exhibited at the Crystal Palace cat show.
The breed piqued Queen Victoria's interest, and she owned several during her lifetime, including one named White Heather, which remained in Buckingham Palace after the Queen died. The Queen's affection for these gentle animals contributed to their popularity among the British public.
In the late 1800s, the first Persian cats arrived in the United States. They were the first breed to be registered with the newly formed Cat Fanciers' Association in 1906. Persian cats with flatter faces and rounder heads began to emerge in the 1950s as a result of selective breeding.
Persian cats have starred in art, advertising, and photography throughout the decades due to their regal bearing and ancient lineage. My Wife's Lovers, the largest painting of cats ever sold, depicted both Persian and Turkish Angora cats. Persian cats are now one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States.
Health:
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and polycystic kidney disease are two common ailments in Persian cats (PKD). PKD is an inherited disease that causes small, liquid-filled sacs to grow and multiply in the kidney tissue, eventually leading to kidney failure. PRA is a genetic eye disease that causes the retinal cells to deteriorate over time, eventually leading to blindness in cats.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association, Persian cats, especially those with flatter faces and short jaws, have eye and dental problems.
3• Maine Coon:
Maine coons are big, smart, and affectionate pets who adore their owners. Learn more about Maine coons' characteristics.
Maine coons are large, affectionate cats who enjoy hanging out with their humans and playing with them. Although this cat breed is known for its enormous size—up to 40 inches in length—Maine coon owners know and appreciate their cats for being loving family pets.
Maine coons are surprisingly popular, especially considering the breed was nearly extinct at one point. The Maine coon was named the fifth most popular cat breed by the Cat Fanciers' Association in 2019. Depending on pedigree, a Maine coon kitten can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,500.
History:
The New England native breed was popular in 19th-century cat shows but was overshadowed by more exotic breeds until the 1950s when it experienced a resurgence in popularity. The Maine coon breed is typically strong and healthy because it was allowed to develop naturally from the 1800s to the middle of the twentieth century. From the cold-weather tolerant coats that helped them survive harsh New England winters to the high prey drive that makes these sweet house cats excellent mousers.
On May 8, 1895, the first North American cat show was held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with Cosey, a female Maine coon, winning Best in Show. The silver collar Cosey earned was later purchased by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) Foundation and is now on display as an important piece of cat history at the CFA's headquarters.
Health:
Maine coons are typically healthy pets with a lifespan of 10-13 years. However, there are some health issues to be aware of, as with any breed.
Maine coons can develop joint diseases such as arthritis or hip dysplasia due to their large stature, according to Lenox. "Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is also a risk in Maine coons, and dental disease is common in this breed."
4• Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian forest cats are large, affectionate cats that make wonderful family pets. Find out more about this gentle and friendly cat breed.
Norwegian forest cats are large, affectionate felines affectionately known as "Wedgies" by breed fans. Wedgies are popular all over the world, but they are especially popular in Norway, where they are known as skogkatt.
These gentle cats make wonderful pets and, despite their intimidating size, are surprisingly calm and gentle. Norwegian forest cats are gentle, low-maintenance companions. The Wedgie will make an excellent family pet if you can provide lots of love, brushing, and safe surfaces for your cat to climb.
Depending on age, pedigree, location, and other factors, Norwegian forest cats can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500.
History:
The Norwegian forest cat was not introduced as a breed until the 1930s, but they came dangerously close to extinction in the 1940s. Wedgies became popular in the 1970s after supporters worked to protect the breed, and they were formally imported into the United States in 1979.
Health:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), hip dysplasia, and glycogen storage disease type IV are among the most serious health concerns for the Norwegian forest cat. Your kitten will be screened for health issues by a reputable breeder, but it's important to have them screened regularly until they reach adulthood. HCM and other health issues in cats can go undetected for a long time.
5• Siberian:
Siberian cats make wonderful family pets because they are affectionate and loyal. They get along well with children and other pets. Find out more about the tough Russian cat breed.
Siberian cats are indigenous to Siberia, a Russian region known for its long, harsh winters. Their long, weatherproof triple coat and strong bodies reflect their rugged origins.
The personalities of these alert, well-built cats are kittenish. This breed is affectionate and enjoys cuddling. Siberians are devoted to their pet parents and get along well with children and other animals in general.
History:
These wild, long-haired cats became domesticated over time, seeking refuge from the harsh Siberian winters in human homes. People greeted these adoring cats with open arms because of their keen mousing abilities and sweet demeanor.
Early 19th-century cat shows were the first to mention Siberian cats in European culture. The breed was not introduced to the United States until the 1990s, and it is still considered rare today.
Health:
Siberian cats live for eight to ten years. They are usually well-behaved pets.
“With this breed, the biggest genetic risk is a slightly higher risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, also known as HCM,” Marks says. “The heart muscle enlarges and becomes less functional in this condition.”
Your kitten will be screened for health issues by a reputable breeder, but it's important to have them screened regularly until they reach adulthood. HCM and other health issues in cats can go undetected for a long time.
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