The Complete Guide to Persian Cats

All About Persian Cats

Have a new Persian cat? Learn everything you need to know about them here! Or asking yourself, ‘How can I tell if I have a Persian Cat?’, fear not! Let this be the complete guide to this cat breed!

History Behind Persian Cats

Where did the Persian cats originate?

When you first think of Persian cat’s history, most people think they are originally from Persia (what is now considered Iran and Turkey). Interestingly enough, there is not a lot known about the history of this cat breed except that they have been around since the 1600s. What is known is that they became popular when they came to England. They became popular among the nobility, including Queen Victoria of England.

What Do Persian Cats Like?

A Persian cat kitten is known to have some distinct characteristics. A typical show-style Persian has an extremely long and thick coat, short legs, a wide head with the ears set far apart, large eyes, and an extremely shortened muzzle.

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The breed was originally established with a short muzzle, but over time, this characteristic has become extremely exaggerated, particularly in North America. These Persian flat faced cats can come in many different shapes. Persian cats can have virtually any color or markings. So Persian cat colors can range drastically which makes it seem like there are many different types of Persian cats.

Do Persian Cats Make Good Pets?

Let’s talk about a Persian cat temperament. I do want to say that every single cat is different. These are personalities that are typical with this cat breed but you can have a Persian cat rescue that acts completely different from a typical personality. For most of these cats, they are considered docile and elegant. A Persian cat is known for being quiet and sweet.

Do Persian Cats Like To Be Held?

Although Persians tend to be relaxed and easygoing, they also command an air of royalty. (I mean, they were owned by royalty in their early days. I has carried with them). This cat breed may not be the best for families with little kids. They may not be quick to hiss or scratch, but that doesn’t mean they won’t become annoyed when bothered by loud children or pets. This cat is perfect for families that are quiet and looking for sweet companions. This is because families who treat the Persian cat with the dignity and gentleness are rewarded with an affectionate lap cat who enjoys a good petting, or cuddle session.

How Long Do Persian Cats Live?

So the next most important question, how long do Persian cats live? The average Persian Cat lifespan is between 12–17 years, most average around 14 years. Now, from the breeds that I have researched, this is a little lower than the others. But hey, just because their typical lifespan is between 12-17 years doesn’t mean that’s what your cat will do! We all know my cat Phoebe is going to live to be 50! I’m not in denial, its fine.

Persian Cat Health Issues

One awesome thing about Persian cats is that they are not known for having a large number of health issues. Now, that doesn’t mean that there are not health problems with Persian cats. What it does mean is that the problems are usually of genetic nature and is passed down from the mother and father, not necessarily from the breed only. This cat breed is prone to a number of potential health problems, most commonly related to their facial structure. These are usually things like breathing difficulty or noisy breathing caused by constricted nostrils. They are also known to have issues with excessive tearing and are more susceptible to ringworm, a fungal infection.

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Are Persian cats Hypoallergenic?

This is a question that a lot of people ask before adopting a Persian cat. Are these cats hypoallergenic? And do Persian cats shed? Both questions are valid. You want to know what you are getting yourself into! The most important thing to understand about caring for a Persian is the need for daily grooming. That long, beautiful coat doesn’t stay clean and tangle-free on its own. It must be gently but thoroughly combed and brushed every day. This breed is luckily a low-shedding breed. So hopefully your clothes won’t be completely covered with cat hair. But are they hypoallergenic? Well technically, no cat is 100% hypoallergenic. This is actually a common myth. And while Persian cats are higher on the hypoallergenic list, the still have dander than can result in allergies from their longer hair. This is a great cat if you have someone with slight cat allergies, because chances are, they won’t be affected by this cat breed.

Fun Facts No One Knows About Persian Cats

• Persians were originally called Angoras, named for Ankara, the capital of Turkey.
• Persians are the most registered cat breed by the Cat Fanciers Association and a frequent Best in Show winner.
• If you want a best friend who will return all your dedication and love in kind, the Persian may be the right feline for your family.
• Sometimes they are groomed in a “lion cut” where the body is shaved but hair is left long around the head, legs, and tail.
• Their Coats Are a Rainbow of Cat Colors

Do Persian Cats Make Good Pets?

Persian cats are a fun cat breed. Though their history is a bit shaky, they are the perfect breed for anyone who really wants a cat that acts like a dog. If you are okay with brushing them often, and treating them like royalty, Persian cats are the perfect breed for you!