BackCompare Breed
Overview
Characteristics
Temperament
?The breed’s dominant personality traits. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence.
Sweet, sensitive, playful, charming
Origin
?Where this breed was first established.
Iran
Other Names
?In addition to their official names, most breeds earn a few nicknames.
Persian longhair
Group
?Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type.
Medium to large long-haired
Height
?The typical adult height among individuals of this breed. Height is measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the front paws.
8"- 10"
Body Length
?The typical adult body length among individuals of this breed. A cat’s length is measured from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose.
14"-17"
Weight
?The typical adult weight range of this cat breed.
8-15 pounds
Life Expectancy
? The average lifespan of the breed. While life expectancy is fairly consistent across all cat breeds, some breeds tend to live shorter or longer than others.
14-15 years
Price
?The average price.
$1300 - $3000
Affection Level
?Breeds with a high affection level want to give and receive a lot of attention, while less-affectionate breeds are not as interested in petting and snuggles.
0100%
80%
Activity Level
?Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention.
0100%
20%
Pet-Friendly
?How well the breed tends to get along with cats, dogs, and other pets.
0100%
80%
Kid-Friendly
?Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children.
0100%
80%
Sociability
?Breeds with a higher sociability rating will want to spend time with you all day, while less-sociable breeds seldom seek out human interaction.
0100%
80%
Intelligence
?Breeds with higher intelligence ratings are more curious, investigative, and easy to train. Less-intelligent breeds are less trainable but often laid-back and easygoing.
0100%
40%
Playfulness
?Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions.
0100%
60%
Independence
?Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention.
0100%
40%
Vocality
?A higher rating in this area indicates a breed prone to plenty of meowing and other vocalizations, while less-vocal breeds are happy to stay quiet.
0100%
20%
Grooming
?Breeds with higher grooming scores require more maintenance like brushing and bathing, while lower-scored breeds are virtually maintenance-free.
0100%
100%
About the Persian Cat
A thick, luxurious coat is only the beginning! Persian cats bring joy to their families via loving personalities and gentle yet playful antics.
If you're looking for a cat that isn't into impressive displays of athleticism, the Persian might be the perfect breed for you. These cats love to lounge, particularly after they reach adulthood; perhaps that's why some people call them furniture with fur. Don't be fooled by this reputation, though; these cats do exhibit a playful streak, particularly when their people are interested in joining the fun.
Persians are not prone to excessive mischief; for example, they aren't into opening drawers and cupboards like their Oriental cousins are, and they are not normally into things like walking on leashes and playing fetch like some other breeds such as Siamese and Savannahs. They are however intelligent cats, capable of learning your routine, greeting you, and of course, curling up for snuggles as part of a daily routine.
Even though Persians are expert-level cuddlers, they are not terribly demanding. If you're looking for a cat who is happy to nap while you're gone and will cheerfully accompany you through your evening routine, you'll definitely want to give thePersian a second look.
Last but not least, despite having something of a froufrou reputation, Persians make excellent family pets. They have the ability to get along well with children, other felines, and even dogs.
Care
Nutrition
Grooming
Exercise
Health
Because Persian cats have a tendency to suffer from obesity, it's vital to offer them a high-protein, low carbohydrate diet that relies on real meat or fish as the main ingredient. Consider choosing a food that contains added Omega fatty acids to support skin and coat health.
The Persian cat requires daily grooming sessions to prevent tangles that could eventually form painful mats in its ultra-fine undercoat.
These kitties often have facial folds that require cleaning once or twice per day, depending on whether the cat is prone to eye discharge. In addition, routine dental care and nail trimming are rituals worth adopting.
Persian cats need exercise, but care must be taken not to overdo it. You can feel free to have fun playing with feather wands and lasers, but at a slower pace that doesn't cause your kitty to pant or suffer from shortness of breath.
Persians appreciate cat towers and window shelves that offer them a good view of everything that's happening in the household and neighborhood, and they like to sink their claws into scratchers, too. Just like other cats, Persians love to play with toys including catnip mice, interesting balls, and little stuffed animals.
With the Persian's flattened face come some known health issues including shortness of breath with exertion. They are also prone to allergies, which is a common issue for all brachycephalic cat breeds. Other known Persian health issues include frequent eye injuries, dental disease and malocclusion, kidney disease, and cancer.
History
The Persian is an ancient breed, with a history that spans thousands of years. These cats – or cats with a similar appearance – can be seen on hieroglyphics that date back to approximately 1684 BC. During the 1500s, Europeans were introduced to cats that probably served as the foundation to modern Persians and Angoras, when they accompanied Phoenician and Roman caravans.
Sometime during the 1600s, an Italian composer and adventurer named Pietro della Valle described Persian cats from the Khorazan region of Persia, noting that most had long, silky, gray coats. His manuscript, known as Voyages de Pietro della Valle, mentions that the cats made their way to Persia from India with Portuguese travelers.
With frequent travel came additional imports: both Persian and Angora cats made their way to France and England. In England, they were called French cats and they quickly gained popularity for their unique appearance and friendly personalities.
By the 1900s, Persian cats – then known as Persian Longhairs or simply as Longhairs – outpaced Angoras in terms of popularity, perhaps because Queen Victoria had two blue Persians and people of the day were heavily influenced by the Queen's personal tastes.
Today's American Persians are renowned as North America's most popular cat breed. They are recognized by breed registries worldwide.
Did You Know?
A Persian cat with a longer nose is called a doll face Persian, and more closely resembles the traditional or old-fashioned Persian cat breed.
Flat faced Persian cats have a couple of different nicknames including ultra-type and peke-face.
The Persian was once Britain's most popular cat, however it has been outpaced by the British Shorthair.
The Breed Standard
Eyes
The eyes should be large, round, and full, with brilliant coloring. Persian cat eye color should complement coat color.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be short and thick, with an appearance of strength. The paws should be round, with prominent tufts between the toes.
Tail
The tail should be short, yet well-proportioned, creating balance with the cat’s body. Hair should create a full, brush effect.
Body
The Persian should be well-rounded, yet well-balanced, with a cobby body type and good muscle tone. Most Persians are of medium to large size, with males typically weighing more than females.
Head
The head should be large and round, and should sit on a short neck. Viewed in profile, the Persian cat’s forehead, nose, and chin should appear to be vertically aligned, with the eyes taking on a prominent appearance.
Ears
The ears should be small, with a slightly forward tilt. The tips should be round, and furnishings should be ample.
Coat
The coat should be long and thick, with a fine texture. A prominent ruff that extends to form a frill between the front legs is desirable.
Color
Persian cats may be of nearly any color or pattern imaginable. Some registries separate Himalayans / color point Persians from other colors and patterns. Nose leather and paw pad color should complement the coat color.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Persian cat cost?
Persian cats cost between $1300 - $3000.
How big do Persian cats get?
Persian cats tend to be medium in size. A fully grown Persian cat might weigh between 8-15 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 8"- 10" inches tall.
How long do Persian cats live?
The Average lifespan for Persian is 14-15 years.
Do Persian cats shed?
Persian are long-haired cats, so you do have to expect a certain amount of shedding from this breed, but they don't shed as much as other cat breeds.
Find More Cat Breeds
FAQs
What is special about Persian cats? ›
Easily recognizable for their brilliant eyes, luxurious coats, amiable nature, and elegant, almost royal demeanor, Persian cats continue to be one of the most popular cat breeds today. While these fluffy furballs require grooming every day, they are among the best pets, making special friends for life!
Why do Persian cats cry? ›Though they usually aren't overly vocal, a Persian that meows at night or early in the morning could mean that it wants some food, but if the cat bowl is full and it just wants attention, ignore it. If you refuse to respond, the cat will learn that meowing will get it nowhere.
What do Persian cats think about? ›They adore being petted and cuddled, as well as being around their owners. While they love cuddling, they are known to be picky about who gets to be at the receiving end of their affection. Adult cats are lazy and relaxed, but kittens have been known to bite.
Which Persian cat is best? ›The Himalayan is the most recognizable Persian cat variety. The Himalayan variety was first developed when a breeder crossed a Persian and Siamese. These cats are known for having Siamese coloring and Persian features. All Himalayan cats have piercing blue eyes.
Why do people love Persian cat? ›With their snub noses, chubby cheeks, and long hair, the Persian cat is quite an exquisite breed. They're also typically quiet and affectionate cats who enjoy being held, but they're content just lounging around too. They make a perfect, purring lap warmer!
Are Persian cats angry? ›Persian cats are gentle as long as they are treated with kindness. Some of them may look perpetually grumpy, but that's just the face they were born with. However, if a Persian cat is aggressive or displaying conduct that is not welcome, there are measures you can take to correct what you identified as “mean” behavior.
Is Persian cat harmful? ›The study revealed that haircoat disorders, dental disease, overgrown nails and eye discharge are the most common conditions diagnosed in the Persian cat. Many of these health issues may be related to the long coat and flat face that is characteristic of the Persian breed.
What do cats do at night? ›Cats have different sleep-wake cycles than other animals and are often busy at night. This is because cats are crepuscular, which means they hunt and are active in the evening or early morning. This cat behavior at night is sometimes called the night crazies and may cause lack of sleep for cat owners.
Do Persian cats cry a lot? ›Whether you talk to Persian Cat owners, breeders and even manufacturers of pet products, one message resonates throughout - keep it up! Tearing is commonplace in Persians. If you treat the tear stains and then stop, in a matter of days they will be back. There is no way around this.
Do Persian cats choose one person? ›Although a bit aloof and reserved toward strangers, this breed reserves all of its affection and attention for its family. It's not uncommon for Persian cats to bond to one special person whom they love above everyone else. Being naturally gentle and affectionate, most Persians love to be close to their owners.
Are Persians smart? ›
Persian cats are not overly smart but they are extremely adorable. Known for being gentle and sometimes goofy, Persian cats get along with everyone and cope well with environmental changes. They may not be as smart as some breeds but this doesn't affect their ability to make wonderful pets.
Which cat is smartest? ›Abyssinian cats are known as the smartest cat breed due to their inquisitive nature and exceptional detective skills. They are incredibly independent, but enjoy toys like puzzles.
Do Persian cats fight? ›You might see a Persian cat fight or hiss with other cats. But this typically only happens if another cat doesn't appreciate a Persian cat's boundaries. Overall, Persian cats don't have any issues with other cats.
Can Persian cats drink milk? ›The truth is that most cats are lactose intolerant so giving them cow's milk can actually cause significant health issues. Milk doesn't part of necessary cat nutrition and many cats suffer stomach upsets or other related problems because their owner thought that they were giving them a treat.
What food can Persian cats eat? ›Consider giving her a dry cat food like Purina ONE Hairball Formula or Pro Plan Specialized Hairball Management Chicken & Rice Formula and supplementing with a wet cat food such as Pro Plan Specialized Indoor Salmon & Rice Formula.
What is Persian cat weakness? ›Being a Normal-type Pokemon, Persian is very weak against Fighting-type attacks. Any Fighting-type move that you dish out should do 160 per cent extra damage.
Can Persian cats stay alone? ›Ideal owner / home
Unlike most pets, they are also not overly demanding so they're quite happy to be left on their own, but not for very long periods of time. This means they work better than most breeds for someone who works out of the house but leaving them alone for many hours is still not recommended.
Cats tend to sleep more than humans and for Persian cats; they sleep for around 12 to 16 hours a day. Hence, along with sleeping during the night, they sleep at different times during the day but it doesn't make them nocturnal. Persian cats become most active during their feeding time which is usually at dawn and dusk.
How old do Persian cats live? › Why does my Persian cat bite me? ›Cats often bite during play because they are expressing their natural hunting instinct. For kittens, biting and bunny-kicking are normal play behaviours. They play like this with their littermates and mothers and it mimics how they pounce, grab and bite their prey.
Do Persian cats smell? ›
Your Persian cat is smelling bad as it most likely has a problem related to its skin or bacterial infection. It may also have dental issues that can cause the nasty smell or other reasons, listed here. Find what's causing the smell by inspecting your Persian cat and then decide how you should proceed.
Are Persian cats talkative? ›Chatter. Persians are rather talkative, but they aren't loud so much as chatty. They often reply when spoken to, Their voices are usually quite cute and charismatic, and perhaps a bit squeaky.
Can we kiss Persian cat? ›As such, at any point in time, a cat's mouth may be no dirtier than ours. However, cats contain certain other bacteria in their mouths, which cause gum disease. As predators, they also eat animals and insects that may harbor diseases. To be safe, avoid kissing your cat on the lips.
Is cat hair poisonous? ›It turns out that cat hair is not harmful to humans. However, cat hair can carry dander and saliva from cats which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Persons who are allergic to cat hair may experience symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and difficulty breathing.
Are Persians healthy? ›Persians have hereditary health issues that can be a concern. They include polycystic kidney disease (PKD), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), bladder stones, cystitis (bladder infections), and liver shunts. Responsible breeders take steps to avoid these problems.
Can cats see in the dark? ›Their eyes are intelligently designed
According to Catster , the reason cats' night vision is so excellent is because of the intelligent design of their eyes. They possess a curved cornea and large lens, and in low light their pupils can dilate to full circles to allow in maximum light.
Cats can become jealous and stressed for several different reasons that have to do with being insecure in some way. Insecurities can arise anytime there are big changes in a household and your cat doesn't feel in control of their environment.
Are cats OK in the dark? ›Turning out the lights when you leave the house can be a good habit to have from an economic standpoint, but leaving your cat in complete darkness can actually be very stressful for them.
Do Persian cats need a friend? ›The Persian cat is a beautiful, fluffy breed that's incredibly affectionate and does need a fair bit of attention. They love to play and relax with company. So if you've got your heart set on a Persian but aren't home for the majority of the day, they might need a feline friend to bond with.
Do Persian cats feel cold? ›But do cats feel the cold? Different types of breeds can withstand varying levels of cold weather. For example, Persian and Norwegian Forest cats have thicker and softer fur than a short-hair cat, which keeps them warmer for longer.
Are Persian cats shy? ›
Personality and quirks
Because of their quiet and calm personality, Persian cats love to live in serene and secure environments. But if you shower them with love and affection, they can easily adjust to lively and fun-loving households. This breed also tends to be shy and reserved.
It might go unnoticed by some of us, but cats do ask for forgiveness if they've done something bad, like scratching us or showing aggression. The reason why it's an unnoticed action is that cats usually apologize by rubbing themselves on us.
How do cats say hello? ›The cat's meow is her way of communicating with people. Cats meow for many reasons—to say hello, to ask for things, and to tell us when something's wrong.
What are cat kisses? ›A feline blink is the so-called "cat kiss." It's a way for cats to appease one another, says Siracusa. With a slow blink, your cat is basically saying, I'm feeling good, let's not fight.
Why do cats sleep with you? ›Sleeping with you provides them with security and an extra defense if a predator should launch a nighttime attack. They sleep with you because they trust you, they know you're not a danger and you can also provide an extra layer of defense if needed.
Do cats prefer man or woman? ›According to a new study, cats experience the greatest fondness for female owners. Cats attach to your veterinary clients—your female clients in particular—as social partners and it's not just because they want to be fed, according to research in the journal Behavioral Processes.
Do cats remember people? ›Cats possess excellent long-term memories. They can recall their animal companions and the people who feed them as well as those who irritate them. Memory is what allows a cat to leap into the arms of a family member returning after a semester away at college.
Why are Persian cats so calm? ›Their ancestors were raised to be lazy
This led to the Persian breed living a luxurious life. For centuries, this cat breed has lived like kings. They were raised to lead quiet, work-free lives.
- Persian. ...
- Ragdoll. ...
- Siamese. ...
- Maine coon. ...
- Sphynx. ...
- Abyssinian. ...
- Burmese. ...
- Scottish fold.
Persian cats are not overly smart but they are extremely adorable. Known for being gentle and sometimes goofy, Persian cats get along with everyone and cope well with environmental changes. They may not be as smart as some breeds but this doesn't affect their ability to make wonderful pets.
Are Persian cats always angry? ›
Persian cats are gentle as long as they are treated with kindness. Some of them may look perpetually grumpy, but that's just the face they were born with.
Is Persian cat angry? ›They look almost cherubic sometimes, and the illusion is completed by their soft meows and sweet temperament. But Peke-face Persian cats look permanently angry, because of the way their mouths sit, in what could be called a frown.
Can Persian cats fight? ›You might see a Persian cat fight or hiss with other cats. But this typically only happens if another cat doesn't appreciate a Persian cat's boundaries. Overall, Persian cats don't have any issues with other cats.
Are girl or boy cats better? ›The truth is that the sex of the cat really doesn't matter when it comes to choosing the purrfect pet for you. Although there are some behavioral differences between male and female cats as they grow from kittens to adults, a cat's genetics and environment play a bigger role in how well the two of you will bond.
Which cats are more loyal? ›Abyssinian
Known as "the dog of the cat world", the Abyssinian cat breed is as affectionate as they come. They are fiercely loyal and love to survey their surroundings to ensure those they love are protected at all costs.
Persian cats are a very affectionate breed and aren't afraid to show affection to the people that they love and trust. They usually get along well with children, pets, and even guests. Quite sociable, but never the life of the party, Persians make for an unassuming and perfect feline companion.