Persians are best known for their long, luscious, silky-smooth coats that seem to shimmer in the light. As their name suggests, this breed probably came to Europe from the region now known as Iran (as well as Myanmar, China, and Russia). They were favorites of British, French, and Italian royalty.
Not much has changed as far as their popularity goes: Persians are the world's favorite cat breed. They're also among the oldest breeds of cat in existence——they date back nearly five centuries.
This breed can grow to between 7-12 pounds and lives an average of 15-20 years.
Persians are docile and sweet, though not as curious as many other breeds. They're very smart and love playing with you. They are affectionate but not insistent. A Persian will do best in a quiet home with a standard daily routine. They're easily startled by rowdy children or noisy visitors.
These kitties are fairly quiet, preferring to chirp to get your attention if they decide they need it. Persians are the platonic ideal of lap cats, but that cuddlesome nature doesn't mean they don't like to bat around a feather now and then. They also typically like to keep all four feet on the ground, making them less likely to climb those shelves than many other cat breeds.
Despite their laid-back reputations, Persians are happy to play with you. Really, any gentle game with you will keep her happy. They tend not to like jumping very much, though, so no need to bring home a cat tower.
Persians have flat, pansy-shaped faces, giving them their distinctive look. This breed has a thick, longhaired coat; their eye color depends on the color of their coats.
If you bring home a Persian you need to be prepared for daily grooming sessions. That gorgeous fur needs frequent brushing or combing to stay ahead of mats and tangles. If you're not planning to show yours, you might consider keeping her partially clipped, particularly around her tush.
Your cat's coat and skin can tell you a lot about her health and wellbeing. Healthy cats have coats that are smooth and shiny; they should have supple, clear skin. Nutrition and wellness factor heavily into the texture and luster of your kitty's coat, but you can help keep her looking and feeling her best with regular skin care and grooming.
Persians are somewhat prone to pudginess, so be mindful about portion control. Many North American Persians are increasingly being bred for short muzzles, which can cause breathing and sinus problems. Persians with blue eyes are more susceptible to deafness than other varieties. Keep an eye out for polycystic kidney issues as well.
Remember that cats often hide disease symptoms! It's important to bring your furry friend in for veterinary checkups at least once a year.
Persians aren't among the breeds generally recommended for allergy sufferers.
Remember that no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, and any breed can aggravate allergies.
Your Persian loves to catch and keep your attention, so don't be surprised to find her draped over your favorite piece of furniture. Though not what you might call athletic, this kitty will happily eviscerate a catnip mouse or play a lazy game of chase-the-laser. She'll also keep your lap warm while you read the paper over a long lunch.
The amount of time you have to devote to grooming your Persian needs to be a primary consideration when you're thinking about adopting. They are gorgeous, but they'll need daily attention to keep them looking and feeling their best. If you don't mind fussing over them, though, they make polite and courteous companions.
Have you decided that a Persian is the purr-fect cat for you? Why not be your new best friend’s hero and adopt a rescue!
Follow the link below to adopt a Persian near you!
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