How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You

  • December 16, 2009
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If you’ve decided to adopt a cat, learn what different breeds can offer so that you can give your new feline a forever home.

You Will Need

  • A guide to cat breeds
  • Honest answers to hard questions
  • Patience
How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Decide between purebred or domestic cats

Step 1: Decide between purebred or domestic cats

Decide between purebred or domestic cats. Find a guide to cat breeds at the library or on the internet. Fewer than 5 percent of cats are purebreds, so expect to pay hundreds of dollars for a quality purebred cat.

Check with your local shelter or with breed rescue groups to see if they have the breed you want.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Decide between long-haired or short-haired cats

Step 2: Decide between long-haired or short-haired cats

Decide between long-haired or short-haired cats. Do you love long, silky fur and have time every day to brush your cat’s coat? Consider a long-haired Persian or Himalayan. No time for brushing or cleaning shed fur? Try a short-haired breed.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Decide between vocal or quiet cats

Step 3: Decide between vocal or quiet cats

Decide between vocal or quiet cats. Do you want your cat to meow and “talk” to you? Try a Siamese or Burmese. Want a quiet cat? Try a Scottish Fold or American Curl.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Decide between active or relaxed cats

Step 4: Decide between active or relaxed cats

Decide between active or relaxed cats. Do you have lots of time to spend with a playful, frisky cat? Try an Abyssinian. Are you away from home a lot and want a mellow or relaxed cat? Try a Russian Blue or Ragdoll. Want a cat good with kids? Try a Maine Coon.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Decide between a kitten and an adult cat

Step 5: Decide between a kitten and an adult cat

Decide between a kitten and an adult cat. Kittens are very active and require lots of attention and training. If you don’t have a lot of spare time, try a full-grown cat instead. It will bond with you just as well and you will have a better idea of its personality.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Find out more

Step 6: Find out more

Look at all your requirements, make a list of which breeds fit best, then find out more. If you’re going with a purebred, check with a breeder regarding price and availability.

Get a breeder referral from your vet or cfa.org, and ask breeders for references.

How To Pick the Right Cat Breed For You: Take your time deciding

Step 7: Take your time deciding

Take time making your decision. Finding a cat with the purr-sonality that’s right for you will ensure a lifetime of feline friendship.

Did you know? The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognizes 39 breeds of cats, including ones with bobbed tails, no tail, curly fur, and even no fur.

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Comments (3)

HeatherMenicucci

Too, too, too cute! Awesome cat animations Rachael!

over 2 years ago by HeatherMenicucci

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popcorngirl94

I love long haired cats!!!

11 months ago by popcorngirl94

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popcorngirl94

Haha very funny ending!

11 months ago by popcorngirl94

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Video is in What's New Pussycat (42 videos)