Pedigreed cats are those that belong to a specific breed. They share similar traits, including the length of their fur, eye color, coat patterns, tails, and overall mannerisms. These cats are typically quite expensive due to their rarity, and they are often bred by humans who spend significant time and money finding compatible cats to mate. While many cat lovers swear by mixed-breed cats—who have lineage from many different feline varieties—others are almost obsessive about owning a cat that has only one heritage or background. For some, owning a cat with a specific pedigree is seen as a symbol of high class and wealth. Here are a few popular cats that are widely sought after for their pedigree.
Popular Pedigreed Cats
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a type of Tabby cat native to the Americas. It is the only breed of cat considered indigenous to the region, with its origins in New England. Most cat experts believe the Maine Coon arrived in the Americas on boats from Europe and has been around since colonial times. Some even say these cats are direct descendants of the pets owned by Marie Antoinette, who was said to have saved them before being led to the guillotine.
The Maine Coon is the second most popular cat breed, after the Persian. It is a long-haired cat with a gentle disposition, a rugged coat designed to withstand harsh weather, and a surprisingly quiet voice for its large size. Known as the “gentle giant,” the Maine Coon enjoys water in small doses, possibly due to its historical association with sea travel. According to cat associations, true Maine Coons can be any color except chocolate or lavender.
Persian
Persian cats are the most popular breed worldwide, with approximately 25,000 registered with the Cat Fancier’s Association. They originated in the area that was formerly known as Persia (now Iran) and were brought to Europe by caravan travelers in the 1500s. Persians were later transported to the Americas in the late 1800s. Over the years, they have been selectively bred to possess the unique characteristics they are known for today.
Persian cats are known for their beauty and elegance, with long, lustrous hair, wide, round eyes, and full cheeks. They also have short, round ears set lower on the head than those of other cats.
Siamese
Siamese cats are famous for their association with ancient royalty. They were favored by kings and queens and were thought to be the only cats worthy of living in royal opulence. Siamese cats originated in Thailand, formerly known as Siam, and their name reflects this origin.
Siamese cats are slim, with short, sleek coats and striking blue eyes. Their bodies are light-colored, with darker hues on their face, tail, and ears—called “points.” The CFA recognizes four colors of Siamese cats: seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac points. There are two varieties: the show Siamese and the traditional or “Applehead” Siamese. The show Siamese is characterized by a long, thin body and a tapered, petite head, with slanted eyes and large ears. Applehead Siamese cats have larger, rounder heads and more robust features.
Siamese cats are quite vocal, often having a loud, yelping meow that demands attention. They are known for their strong personalities and tend to be the “mean girls” of the cat world, believing the world revolves around them.
Burmese
Burmese cats, though less popular than Persian cats, are still among the most distinctive and well-recognized pedigreed cats. Burmese cats are originally from Burma (now Myanmar), and all Burmese cats in the U.S. and Europe can trace their ancestry back to one cat that arrived in the Americas in 1930. Initially, Burmese cats were mixed with Siamese cats to create the breed we recognize today.
Burmese cats were once believed to be worshipped in Burmese temples. They are playful and affectionate, seeking attention from their owners. Burmese cats have short, satiny coats and are known for being sturdy and strong. Their rich brown coat is often described as “copper.” There are three main body types for Burmese cats: contemporary, European, and traditional. Contemporary Burmese are stocky with round heads and widely spaced eyes. Traditional Burmese have a slightly different head type but otherwise share similar traits. European Burmese are more elegant with slanted eyes and a smaller body.
While mixed-breed cats are the most common overall, pedigreed cats hold a special place in the hearts of many cat fanciers, some of whom dedicate their lives to the pursuit of specific breeds.
