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A breed entirely regal in their behaviour, Persians are glamourous, docile yet discriminating in their affection. They prefer a calm environment where they like to perch on high to keep a watchful eye and a swishing tail over their realm.
Physically, Persians are high-maintenance thanks to their long hair that tangles easily. Sensitive skin also means they don’t enjoy tugging, so comb regularly to avoid knots.
These are undemanding lap cats who are discriminating in their affection. They are sometimes playful but mostly serene.
Persians are reasonably intelligent and tend to communicate with their eyes.
Creatures of habit who prefer a peaceful home and gentle handling, they are happy to be petted by children but are unlikely to join in boisterous games with them or other cats and dogs.
Rosamund Pike
Persians have low energy levels, so your rugs are safe (not from moulting though).
Duchess, Baroness
Want a Siamese with extra cuddle? The Balinese is the Siamese’s long-haired cousin. Named after the graceful dancers of that Indonesian island, Balinese are chatty, friendly, active cats who love to play and demand attention.
The Chinchilla may look like they're accustomed to a lavish lifestyle with their luxurious, white coats, but they couldn't be more relaxed. The Chinchilla breed is intelligent and easy-going, making them an excellent addition to the family.
The Chartreux will be the most well-behaved, and often coy, member of the family. The beautiful coat and amber eyes of the Chartreux may make them the best looking family member as well, or at least the softest.
The Burmilla cat is the friend that accidentally knocks everything over, but is so cute and charming that you can never be upset. Their playful personalities and their laid-back nature make the Burmilla the perfect family cat.
Burmese may be brown-nosers, but there is no hidden agenda here. They are as clever as a cat can be and you can always find them roaming around your home, making sure they've explored every centimetre. An excellent cat if you like having a close companion whilst doing everyday activities. From washing dishes to tucking in at night, Burmese will always be near.
American Shorthairs are the true blue-collar workers in the cat world. They may be small but they are full of strength and charisma, and were originally bred to hunt the rats and mice that plagued settlers in New England.
Originally bred Down Under to be an indoor-only cat, the Australian Mist is a little leopard of a cat. With their spots or ringed fur, they’ve quickly become a popular urban breed.
Stoic Norwegian Forest cats are a natural breed, adapted to Scandinavian conditions with long hair and strong claws for climbing. Big and strong, they’re the cats of snow-swept Scandinavian fairytales.
Orientals are athletic and physically powerful but behave like kittens for life. You can find them playing hide-and-seek in places you haven’t dusted in years or rummaging through your cupboards. They originate from the Siamese breed, and look similar, except for their brilliant blue or green eyes and array of coat colours.
The Maine Coon is a large muscular breed. They were originally working domestic cats, championed for their mousing prowess. Originally cold outdoors cats, they need lots of space and use their bushy tails as blankets, wrapping them around their bodies. They’re happy chilling.
Sphynx are like marmite; you either love or hate their hairless wrinkled coat and food-baby round tummy. But, their skin is warm and peachy to touch and they are one of the most intelligent cat breeds. Sphynx are flirts; they’ll do anything to get your attention.
Abyssinians are one of the most graceful breeds, with a loyal and protective personality. Their classic outline is recognisable a mile away, and they're notorious for being able to hold up their end of the conversation by ‘chirruping’, no matter the topic.
The British Shorthair is the nation’s archetypal cat, and the UK's most popular registered breed. They are reserved (they are British, after all), gentle, loyal and have more fur per square inch than any other breed. Don't forget that dazzling Cheshire smile.
Ragdolls are big cats; they mature slowly and only reach their full size at age 4. They’re also big softies; their name comes from their tendency to go floppy when picked up. They’re just as happy letting children play with them, as they are curling up by an adult’s feet.
Siamese is one of the oldest known cat breeds, and originated in what is now known as Thailand. Despite how Disney portrays them, they do not come as twins, but they do tend to sing (a notoriously noisy breed). They’re incredibly smart, and can even be taught to retrieve toys (take that, dogs!).
Bengal cats are some of the most playful cats about. Their intelligence combined with their incredibly inquisitive natures can sometimes make for quite a handful – so be prepared if their beautiful markings and colourings take your fancy. If you like a cheeky sense of humour and an active personality, this is the cat for you!
