10 most popular cat breeds

The Cat Fanciers' Association, which has the world's largest registry of these purebred animals, has published a list of the most popular cat breeds in the world. Given that the organization has 42 cat breeds on its list, below are the top ten of those animal breeds that Americans chose as pets last year.

10. Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is a relatively new breed of cat, accidentally discovered in 1960 in the English county of Devonshire. This animal was called by different names: an elf cat, an alien cat, that is, it looked like a fabulous creature or a bat. It is a well-known fact that she behaves more like a dog in behavior.

Due to its unique appearance, this breed has attracted the attention of cat lovers around the world and won the hearts of its owners with its attractive, quirky and mischievous appearance.

9. Abyssinian cat

Abyss, as they are affectionately called, have a royal chic look, they are easy to care for and make ideal pets.

Abyssinian cats have a lively and agile character, their head is slightly wedge-shaped with ears slightly directed forward. The body of this breed is medium in size with well-developed muscles. The limbs of the Abyssinians are long and graceful. The hair of these animals is short and tight to the body. All of their appearance, they resemble the ancient Egyptian cats. Abyssinians are affectionate and loyal cats, they usually get along well with children and other pets. They are known for their curiosity, playfulness and need to explore their entire surroundings. Cats of this breed are very attached to people, and love to participate in activities around them.

8. Canadian Sphynx

One of the newer cat breeds is the Canadian Sphynx, which is a hairless, wrinkled wonder with large ears and eyes and pronounced cheekbones. According to the Cat Fanciers Association, the first member of this breed was born in Canada in 1966. The lack of hair was a genetic abnormality that was the result of the influence of Mother Nature. Such cases occurred approximately once every 15 years.

Since then, these cats have been bred with both traditional shorthaired and hairless breeds in order to create genetically healthy animals. Their unique appearance has caught the attention of many cat lovers. Despite their rarity, this breed has recently become one of the most sought after in the United States. These animals are definitely “public beings”. They are energetic, silly and playful, and love to be in the spotlight. Street life doesn't suit them at all. Since their skin is constantly exposed to all sorts of factors, they need to be well protected. But this does not mean that they should not go outside for a walk.

7. Scottish Fold cat

Good-natured and humble in nature, many Scottish Fold cats share one trait. Unlike any other breed, they have rounded ears that point forward and downward, which makes them vaguely resemble an owl.

Scottish Fold cats are known to be light-hearted and very loving and friendly with people and other pets. Cats of this breed are sociable and playful and tend to bond with one family member. They are also known for their soft voice and the ability to "speak" in a variety of keys, which is not usually found in many other cat breeds.

6. American Shorthair

This cat has a reputation as the "breed of America". The first animals of this breed were brought from Europe by early settlers. Today, a cat of this breed is the favorite of every family. She consistently ranks among the ten most popular cat breeds. The American Shorthair is known to have a good disposition and a sharp mind. Further evidence of the gentle nature of the character is the ability of this cat to get along with other pets and its affectionate attitude towards children. She is considered an ideal pet for a family with children.

5. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural cat breeds in North America, known for its intelligence and playfulness, as well as its body size. They are one of the largest cats, which is why they are affectionately called “kind giants”.

Maine Coons are also known for their shaggy coat and rugged appearance. Adult males reach 8-12 kg, and females are usually slightly smaller. These gentle giants usually reach their final size between three and five years of age. Maine Coons are focused on human society, energetic and highly intelligent, making them easy to learn. They are also known for their dog-like behavior. They follow their owners from room to room, come when called, and love to play.

4. Persian cat

Persian cats are known for their gentle, laid-back temperament, cute face and round eyes. These beautiful creatures have constant habits, they are affectionate and quiet, making them the most popular breed among cat lovers.

Persian cats are not only the most popular cat breed, they are also considered the most ancient. In fact, information about this breed was back in 1684 BC. e., confirming their origin from Persia (present-day Iran). It is believed that these cats were named after their "country of origin". Although this breed has evolved over time in terms of color and body type, one thing has remained the same: their thick and silky coat. Ideally, Persian coats should be groomed at least once a day to avoid rolling or tarnishing. They also need to be bathed from time to time to keep their coat clean and healthy.

3. British shorthair

It is believed that during the first century, the Romans introduced the British Shorthair to England and the breed coexisted and interbred with wild native cats. Many years later, the British Shorthair cat was crossed with Persian cats, after which her appearance changed slightly, and her coat became thicker.

Not only is it one of the most popular cat breeds, but it is also commonly chosen for television, film, and even portrayal in books. You can recognize this breed in most of the Whiskas commercials. The cat raised from the dead in Stephen King's Pet Sematary (nicknamed Winston Churchill) was British Shorthair, as was Arlene in Garfield or the Cheshire Cat in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. ... Such examples can be listed endlessly.

2. Ragdoll

Calm and loving, these cats get their name from their tendency towards a relaxed state. They love to be in their arms. They are large representatives of domestic cats, and are considered one of the most affectionate by nature. Ragdoll cats are often referred to as "puppies" because of their similarity to a dog's.

These animals are extremely soft and friendly, they practically cannot live without human communication. Ragdolls love to follow their owner everywhere, sleep with him or be in his arms. Cats of this breed are especially good with children and other pets and can easily learn the same tricks as dogs, such as playing with a ball or stick, rolling on the ground, or begging for something.

1. Exotic shorthair

For the third consecutive year, the exotic cat has been named America's most popular registered cat, ranking the # 1 breed for 31 years in a row.She was bred by crossing Persian cats with American Shorthairs.

In almost every way, these cats are bred according to the standards of the Persian breed, with the exception of their coat. They, unlike their Persian counterparts, have a short, thick, close-fitting coat, which is why they are so popular. Many people want to have Persian cats, but they do not have enough time to take care of them on a daily basis. Their character is usually the same as that of the Persians. They are gentle, affectionate and playful. Exotic cats are known to be more loyal and more attached to humans than other cat breeds, and usually follow on the heels of their owners.