Despite their occasionally grumpy appearance, the Persian cat breed is known for being incredibly sweet and laid back. These longhaired cats are loving and charming, particularly when introduced to the family as kittens. However, their beauty requires extra attention due to their long, dense fur and distinctive short muzzle. Discover more about the Persian cat breed's needs and unique traits, including their ability to live harmoniously with the entire family.

• How long do Persian cats live?  10 - 12 years.
• How big do Persian cats get?  3.2kg to 5.4kg.
• Persian breed colours   The breed comes in six distinct colors: black, blue, cream, cameo (red), smoke tortoiseshell, and blue cream smoke.

• Persian Cats benefit from a seasoned owner.
• This cat breed is a gentle and tranquil feline.
• Persian cats are serene.
• The Persian breed is independent yet affectionate.
• Persian cats are reserved cats.
• The Persian breed is a medium sized cat breed.
• Persian cats need daily grooming.
• This cat breed prefers indoor living.
• The Persian cat breed is not suited for bustling family homes.
• Persian cats can be left alone for extended periods.
• This cat breed thrives in a peaceful environment.

The Persian cat breed, known for its distinctive short muzzle, faces specific health issues:

• Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome: Common in brachycephalic breeds like the Persian, leading to breathing difficulties.
• Skin inflammation/infection: Excess facial skin folds predispose Persians to soreness and infections.
• Eye ulcers: Due to their prominent eyes, Persians are more prone to painful eye erosions.

Persian cats are also susceptible to inherited diseases & health issues:

• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): Characterized by kidney cysts that may lead to kidney failure and weight loss.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): Causes degeneration of the eyes, potentially resulting in blindness.
• Hip dysplasia: Abnormal hip joint development affecting mobility.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): Thickening of the heart muscle, impacting cardiac function.
• Alpha-mannosidosis: An inherited storage disease affecting various organs.

Testing, such as DNA testing for progressive retinal atrophy, helps assess the Persian cat's predisposition to certain conditions.

The Persian cat, a distinctive breed known for its long hair, features a medium size and stocky build. Their characteristics include a round, broad head with large round eyes and a short muzzle, giving them a unique and sometimes grumpy expression. Their small ears are set wide, emphasizing the roundness of their face. The Persian cats body is compact with short, sturdy legs, large round paws, and a short, bushy tail. Their coat is famously long, dense, and luxuriant, with a soft undercoat.

The Persian cat, a distinguished breed known for its long hair, has a medium size and stocky build. Its characteristics include a round, broad head that is proportionally large to the body, with large round eyes and a short muzzle, which contribute to its unique and sometimes grumpy expression. The ears are small and set wide, further accentuating the roundness of the face. The body is compact, featuring short, sturdy legs, large round paws, and a short, bushy tail. The Persian cat's coat is exceptionally long, dense, and luxurious, with a soft undercoat.

• Family-friendly: 4/5
• Playfulness: 3/5
• Intelligence: 2/5
• Tendency to Vocalize: 3/5
• Likes Other Pets: 1/5
• Grooming needs: 5/5
• Shedding: 4/5

Supposedly exported from Persia in the 17th Century, the Persian cat claims to be one of the oldest cat breeds in existence. Hieroglyphic references from as early as 1684 B.C. purportedly show Persian cats, although these depictions feature a more moderate version with a prominent muzzle and shorter hair, distinct from today's extreme flat-faced and heavily coated breed.

Over the centuries, Persian cats have undergone various transformations influenced by different groups of breed enthusiasts worldwide. These changes have affected coat type, muzzle length, and color. Today, several types of Persian cats exist, including the Persian Longhair, Chinchilla, Doll Face, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, and possibly more. This breed's history includes notable figures such as Pietro Della Valle, Queen Victoria, and their introduction into the United States.

The Persian Longhair is strictly an indoor cat. Apart from short walks near the home, they are not suited for the outdoors due to their easygoing nature, lack of athleticism, and vulnerability to potential bullying by other neighborhood cats. Ideal for an indoor environment, they may enjoy a small, sheltered outdoor area for sunbathing and observing their surroundings. They thrive in homes with cosy furniture to lounge on, plenty of sunny spots, and an adoring human companion to admire them. Glamorous and quietly regal, the Persian Longhair epitomizes a pampered feline.

Persian Longhair cats value companionship and admiration over active play or vigorous games favored by other breeds. While they enjoy gentle interactions with their owners to stay moderately active and prevent weight gain, their luxurious coats require special attention for cleanliness. Regular grooming after meals and litter box use is essential. For flat faced Persians, specialized bowls or hand feeding may be necessary to ensure comfortable eating.

Every Persian cat is unique, with individual preferences and specific dietary needs. As obligate carnivores, Persian cats, like all feline breeds, require 41 essential nutrients from their food. The balance of these nutrients varies depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, and overall health. For instance, an active adult Persian cat with long, dense fur may have different nutritional requirements than a senior Persian cat. It's important to feed them the appropriate quantity of food to maintain their ideal body condition, following feeding guidelines. Additionally, consider their preference for wet or dry food to ensure they receive optimal nutrition and enjoy their meals.

Find out more about cat nutrition with our article.

The Persian Longhair needs daily grooming, often more than once a day. Due to their long, thick coat, short stocky body, and flat face, they struggle to groom themselves properly. Make sure to clean around their face and eyes daily, and under their tail after each visit to the litter box. It may be practical to trim the fur under the tail and around the genital area if these areas frequently get dirty.

Additionally, regular vaccinations and parasite control are recommended for all cats.

Persian cats thrive best in a quiet and peaceful home, making them less suitable for households with very young children or a lot of noisy, boisterous activity. While they are content being left alone while their owners are at work, Persian Longhairs require significant daily maintenance, so owners must be ready to commit to this level of care.

• Persian cats have long been favored by celebrities and royalty. Notable owners include Marilyn Monroe, Freddie Mercury, Florence Nightingale, and Martha Stewart. Remarkably, Florence Nightingale is reported to have owned over 60 Persian cats throughout her life.

• While the internet is now filled with cats, these furry companions have long been adored for their cuteness. In 1871, Persian cats, along with other breeds, were featured in the world's first cat show, which drew over 20,000 visitors. Can you guess which breed won the show? It was indeed the Persian cat.

• A Persian cat portrayed Mr. Tinkles, a ruthless evil genius, in the 2001 movie "Cats & Dogs

1. How much are Persian cats?

The cost of a Persian cat in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and whether the cat is intended for pet, show, or breeding purposes. On average, you can expect to pay between £500 and £1,500 for a Persian kitten from a reputable breeder. Show quality or rare colored Persians may cost even more, sometimes exceeding £2,000.

2. Where are Persian cats from?

Persian cats originated from Persia (modern-day Iran) and were brought to Europe in the 1600s.

3. Where can i find Persian cats for sale near me?

To find Persian cats for sale in the UK, start by searching for reputable breeders registered with cat associations like GCCF or TICA. Websites such as Pets4Homes list Persian kittens available from breeders or private sellers, though it's essential to verify their credibility. Attending cat shows and exhibitions also provides opportunities to meet reputable breeders and see available kittens. Additionally, checking local animal shelters and rescues occasionally yields Persian cats in need of homes.

4. Are Persian cats friendly?

Persian cats are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them generally friendly companions. They typically enjoy being around people and forming strong bonds with their owners. Persians are often calm and laid back, preferring a quiet and peaceful environment. While they can be reserved with strangers initially, they usually warm up quickly with gentle handling and attention.

5. Do Persian cats shed allot of hair?

Yes, Persian cats do shed. They have long, thick fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding. While shedding can vary among individual cats and seasons, Persians generally shed throughout the year with increased shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing and grooming help to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy, using a quality Walnut grooming set is worth investing in.

6. Are Persian cats hypoallergenic?

No, Persian cats are not hypoallergenic. They do produce dander and have fur, which can trigger allergies in people who are sensitive to cat allergens. While some individuals with allergies may tolerate Persian cats better than others due to their coat maintenance and grooming habits, there is no guarantee that they will not cause allergic reactions. If you have allergies, spending time with a Persian cat before bringing one into your home is advisable to assess your personal sensitivity.

7. How many types of Persian cats?

Persian cats are generally classified into two main types based on their facial structure: traditional or doll face Persians and modern or peke-faced Persians. Traditional Persians have a more natural, open facial appearance with a slightly pronounced nose and are closer in appearance to the original Persian cats. In contrast, modern Persians feature a more extreme facial structure with a flat face, small nose, and large, round eyes. This type is favored in cat shows and breeding programs for its distinctive appearance. Both types share the Persian breed's characteristic traits such as their long, dense fur, round bodies, and placid, affectionate temperament, making them beloved companions in households worldwide.

8. Do Persian cats have breathing problems?

Yes, Persian cats are prone to respiratory issues due to their distinctive flat face and shortened muzzle, a trait known as brachycephaly. This facial structure can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather or when they are stressed. Additionally, their small nostrils and elongated soft palate can contribute to respiratory challenges. It's essential for Persian cat owners to monitor their breathing closely and provide a stress-free environment with good ventilation.

9. Can Persian cats be left alone at night?

Depending on their age, requirements, and behavior, Persian cats can be left alone either at night or during the day.

10. Can we give milk to a Persian cat?

Persian cats are lactose intolerant, meaning that feeding this cat breed cow’s milk could upset their stomach and cause illness.