Discover cat breeds from around the world, from beloved classics to rare gems. Learn about their history, personality, care needs, and what makes each breed unique.
Friendly and sweet in temperament, the short–legged Munchkin is highly sociable and loves playing with toys. The feline equivalent of Dachshunds, Munchkins are instantly recognizable by their short legs and low-slung bodies. The first Munchkins were bred in Louisiana in the 1980s. The exceptionally short legs arose as a random mutation—short-legged cats have occurred naturally … Read more
This rare, short-tailed breed is said to thrive on company and affection, and it is highly intelligent and trainable. This solidly handsome cat takes its name from the Kuril Islands, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the North Pacific, where it is thought to have its origins. Since both Russia and Japan have laid claim … Read more
Although this cat has exotic “jungle” looks and strong hunting instincts, it has a far from fierce personality. This designer cat is a miniature reproduction of wild cats such as the leopard and ocelot. It was created by a conservation enthusiast, Paul Casey, specifically to discourage the killing of wild animals for their fur. Casey … Read more
This little-known breed with a cheerful and balanced temperament is said to be quiet and good with families. Although this cat was not generally recognized until fairly late in the 20th century, it is possibly one of the oldest of the rex breeds and is thought to have been in existence in the Ural region … Read more
This large, beautifully marked tabby is very affectionate and makes a devoted companion. A version of the Ocicat with markings in the classic tabby pattern rather than spots, this cat was recognized as a separate breed only comparatively recently, and is still not yet accepted as such by all breed authorities. The Ocicat Classic has … Read more
This charming cat has a beautiful voice, a unique pom-pom tail, and is playful, spirited, and people-oriented. In its native Japan, this cat is said to bring good luck and is a popular subject for ceramic ornaments. The Japanese Bobtail was spotted in the 1960s by an American enthusiast, who sent a number of the … Read more
Sweet and easy-to-keep, this cat is very gentle, active, and a good jumper, despite having very short legs. This little-known hybrid dwarf cat is a cross between the short-legged Munchkin and the curly-coated Selkirk Rex. It is sometimes known as the Nanus (meaning “dwarf”) Rex. Still regarded as experimental, the Lambkin Dwarf is rare because … Read more
Adaptable and confident, the Ocicat is a curious and playful breed that responds well to training. Despite its name, this spotted beauty is not a cross between the domestic cat and the ocelot—the native jungle cat of South and Central America—but it looks as though it ought to be. The Ocicat was actually the surprise … Read more
This breed may look delicately built, but it has a strong character and enjoys lots of family interaction. Records indicate that this native Turkish breed probably reached France and the UK some time around the 17th century. Widely used in the development of other longhaired cats such as Persians, especially during the early 20th century, … Read more
Despite its fierce looks, this hefty and muscular cat has a sweet temperament and is very affectionate and social. Like the mountain bobcat from which it derives its name, the Pixiebob has a thick coat, tufted ears, a pointed face, and a powerful body, and it moves with loose-limbed grace. A common feature of this … Read more