Different Cat Breeds
Identifying Cats by Characteristics

We explore different cat breeds and how to identify and choose a cat based on its characteristics. As a start, felines are classified into wild and domestic cats.

We have tried to simplify the classification by grouping cats by unusual physical features or natural mutations (i.e. curled or folded ears, short tails and short legs).

Secondly, cat breeds can be grouped by coat length and type (i.e. shorthair, longhair, rexed or 'hairless' cats). Finally, we delve into the hybrid cats developed by man crossing wild cats to domestic cats.

short legged cats

Short legs in cats is due to a condition known as dwarfism. The cute Munchkin cat is the original short-legged cat.

Dwarf cats, also known as miniature or small cat breeds have been created using the Munchkin as the foundation for development.

Teacup cats are a controversial subject which we discuss under a separate topic.

examples of dwarf cats

Napoleon

Munchkin

Lambkin

hairless cats

When people think hairless cat, the first cat that comes to mind is the Canadian Sphynx. There are in fact a number of 'nude' cats which have originated in different parts of the world.

Breeders have also developed these cats using other breeds with distinguishing or unusual features.

We have dedicated pages on hairless cats which also includes an important page on their care.

examples of hairless cats

Peterbald

Don Sphynx

Sphynx ©Photo Courtesy of Theresa Fouche

Canadian Sphynx

hypoallergenic cats

There are a number of different cat breeds that are believed to cause fewer allergic responses in humans suffering from allergies.

The chapter on hypoallergenic cats, provides in depth information about what causes allergies to cats and how to reduce the incidence of allergies.

We also review the breeds that may have the propensity to cause reduced allergies.

examples of hypoallergenic cats

Devon Rex

Siberian Forest Cat

Cornish Rex

rexed cat breeds

There are numerous rexed or curly-coated cats. The curls, kinks and waves are as a result of a natural mutation, (either from a dominant gene or a recessive gene).

Different mutations are responsible for wavy or bristly coats in cats.

The Devon and Cornish Rex both carry recessive genes which means that outcrosses produce straight-haired kittens.

The La Perm, Selkirk and American Wirehair curly and bristle coats are caused by a dominant mutation.

examples of rex-coated cats

La Perm

Selkirk Rex

American Wirehair

Skookum

Devon Rex

Cornish Rex

short-tailed cats

Short-tails in cats is caused by a natural mutation. The gene that results in the short tail may be dominant or recessive.

In some breeds the tail may be completely absent whilst in others it may be a couple of inches long.

examples of short-tailed cats

Pixie Bob

Japanese Bobtail

American Bobtail

Kurilian Bobtail

Manx

Cymric

breeds with unusual ears

Unusual curled ears and lop or folded ears are caused by a natural mutation.

There are a couple of different cat breeds with unusual ears, some natural others 'created' by man.

examples of cats with unusual ears

American Curl

Scottish Fold

Dwelf Cat

hybrid cat breeds

A hybrid is the offspring resulting from cross-breeding. Cat breeders have, over decades created hybrids crossing different cat breeds.

These hybrids can be created by crossing two different domestic cats or by crossing wild cats with domestic cats.

Whilst hybrids are man-made, free roaming domestic cats can and do under normal circumstances mate resulting in cross-breeds.

Domestic/wild cat matings are unlikely and are in most instances created by man.

Many countries and states do not recognize these 'wild' hybrids and in some instances impose restrictions and potential owners may require permits to keep them as pets.

Apart from the breeds featured below, other hybrid breeds include the Safari and the Genetta.