What number of cat breeds are there? Properly, if you happen to’re in the midst of researching that query since you’re wanting to search out the proper feline good friend to welcome into your loved ones, you’ll be happy to study that identical to the most effective dry cat meals , there are many choices relating to the variety of acknowledged cat breeds that it’s a must to select from.
In contrast to canine, the cats we all know and love at this time nonetheless bear a placing genetic resemblance to the wild cats that roamed by way of small villages and farms hundreds of years in the past. As a result of cats have by no means been bred to carry out totally different duties in the way in which canine have, the variations between every are far more refined.
On the subject of what number of cat breeds there are, it’ll probably come as no shock that the precise quantity is as mysterious as our feline mates themselves. Some associations acknowledge as few as 45 breeds, whereas others checklist a whopping 73 – we’ll go into extra element under in regards to the potential causes for this discrepancy.
The excellent news is, whether or not you’re on the lookout for a extremely vocal and outgoing kitty or a peaceful and affectionate four-pawed pal, you’ll discover that the sheer quantity of cat breeds means you’re assured to search out the proper fur child for you.
What number of cat breeds are there?
On the subject of determining what number of cat breeds there are, the quantity will range relying on the supply you utilize. For instance, the Cat Fanciers’ Affiliation (opens in new tab) (CFA) acknowledges 45 breeds, The Worldwide Cat Affiliation (opens in new tab) (TICA) acknowledges 73, and the Fédération Internationale Féline (opens in new tab) acknowledges 48 totally different breeds that they’ve damaged down into 4 classes.
So, what precisely is behind the variation in numbers? Properly, lots of it has to do with the truth that numerous associations qualify cat breeds in numerous methods. Hybrid breeds or these with controversial genetics could also be disqualified from the checklist by some associations. An instance of that is the Munchkin, which is acknowledged by TICA however not by the CFA. That’s probably as a consequence of this breed’s quick legs, which make it a lot more durable for it to leap and climb.
You’ll additionally discover that some associations checklist a number of totally different cats below one classification and others gained’t settle for a breed onto the registry till their lineage might be traced again a sure variety of generations.
The three varieties of cats
(Picture credit score: Getty Photographs)
Cat breeds fall into three differing kinds – pure, cross-bred, and mutated. Pure breeds advanced on their very own with none human intervention and might be traced again hundreds of years. Properly-known examples of pure breeds embrace the Abyssinian, Burmese, Maine Coone, and the Norwegian Forest cat.
Cross-breeds contain the intentional breeding of two or extra established strains. Lots of the most beloved cross-breeds on the earth truly originated by crossing a specific cat with the Siamese breed. These embrace the American Bobtail, Himalayan, and the Tonkinese.
Mutated cats are the results of a single kitten that was born with an attention-grabbing genetic quirk, comparable to quick legs or a scarcity of fur, {that a} breeder wished to see proceed in future litters. The Scottish Fold is maybe our private favourite relating to a mutated breed, however this class additionally consists of the Sphynx and Devon Rex.
What’s the rarest cat breed?
Similar to there’s a level of discrepancy across the variety of cat breeds, there’s additionally some debate about which cat breed can formally be awarded the crown for being the rarest on the earth. That being mentioned, we are able to use every affiliation’s registry to realize some perception into which cats are most and least steadily registered.
Because it started in 1906, the CFA have registered simply 6,700 Egyptian Mau cats, simply qualifying them as being one of many rarest breeds. The Turkish Van is one other prime contender, with simply 100 of those cats being born within the USA annually. Different uncommon breeds embrace the Minskin, Norwegian Forest Cat, and Kurilian Bobtail.
But when we needed to award the title to 1 breed? Properly, based on the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (opens in new tab), the crown goes to the Sokoke cat, whom they imagine to be the rarest home cat on the earth. Originating in Kenya, these felines are identified for his or her peace-loving natures and playful and clever temperament.
What’s the hottest cat breed?
Whereas it could be considerably tough to get precise numbers relating to what number of cat breeds there are and that are the rarest, what’s a lot clearer is which breeds are the preferred amongst feline pet dad and mom.
The CFA (opens in new tab) has as soon as once more decided the reply to this query primarily based on registrations, and whereas their checklist of the highest 10 hottest cat breeds reveals which proceed to extend in recognition, they report that registrations for all cat breeds have elevated considerably for the reason that starting of the pandemic.
So, which cat takes out the primary spot? Properly, there’s in all probability no shock right here that it’s the laid-back, sweet-tempered Ragdoll, which is a household favourite because of its loving and affectionate nature.
Rounding out the highest 5 is the gentlest of all giants, the Maine Coone, adopted by the Unique, the Persian, and the Devon Rex. Different cat breeds to make the checklist embrace the British Shorthair, Abyssinian, American Shorthair, and Scottish Fold.
However no matter whether or not you’ve gotten your eye on a uncommon kitty or a feline that is a bit extra well-liked, there are coaching duties you will must undertake as a pet father or mother that apply to all breeds. Our guides to the way to litter practice a kitten and the way to socialize a kitten will help set your loved one ball of fluff up for achievement, each now and sooner or later, by helping them in studying the behaviors which might be anticipated of them as a member of your loved ones.
Methods to establish what sort of breed your cat is
(Picture credit score: Getty Photographs)
Though there are between 45 and 73 registered cat breeds, most cats are blended breed, which means they select their very own mate and usually are not below managed breeding, versus purebred – these cats which have been selectively bred for sure traits.
In case you undertake a cat from a shelter or one merely turns up in your doorstep, you might be questioning what breed they’re. That will help you establish your feline good friend, pay shut consideration to:
Dimension
Fur colours and patterns
Hair size
Face form
Tail size
Ear form and options
Eye colour
Habits and character
The entire above will help to slender down the breed that your kitty could belong to, however the one method to know for certain is to get a feline DNA check. The outcomes of the check is not going to solely make clear their breed, however may even reveal different necessary genetic data, together with what well being situations your fur good friend could doubtlessly be in danger for.
Which cat breed is best for you?
Similar to people, all cats are distinctive. That being mentioned, every breed is understood for having a typical disposition and sure character traits, that are prone to be current to 1 diploma or one other. With that in thoughts, it’s necessary to perform a little research earlier than welcoming a feline into your loved ones to make sure you’re getting one that’s the greatest match to your wants and life-style.
We advocate contemplating the way you spend your days and what your private home setting is like, in addition to serious about the way you envisage a cat becoming into your life. For instance, what does a typical day appear to be for you? Are you out all day or do you earn a living from home? Do you’ve gotten an enormous household? Is your private home quiet or busy? Do you want cuddling on the sofa or do you favor to be lively? Answering these questions will show you how to to decide on the proper cat to your character.
In case you’re mellow and introverted, then the quiet, go-with-the-flow British Shorthair will love curling up subsequent to you when you devour a novel. In case you’re filled with vitality, the Japanese Bobtail shall be all too joyful to chase after the most effective cat toys . And if you happen to adore affection, it’s going to be laborious to go previous the massive ball of affection that’s the Maine Coone.
Nonetheless unsure which breed would make the most effective feline good friend for you? We’re big followers of Purina’s cat breed selector software (opens in new tab), which asks you a collection of questions and makes use of your solutions to generate an inventory of cats which might be prone to be your ultimate match.