5 Different Cat Breeds and Their Personalities

Have you ever thought about how many cat breeds there are? The answer varies depending on the cat group you prefer, such as the Calico cat or Persian cat.

According to The International Cat Association (TICA) there are 71 different cat breeds. While the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) drops this number by nearly half, saying there are just 45. Coming in just one less, the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) counts 49.

Still, that leaves myriad choices for a prospective puss parent.

With so many different cat breeds, where to start?

According to the Companion Animals in New Zealand Report, 2020, Kiwis are big on feline friends – with over 1.2 million cats as pets at the time of writing. Whichever way you look at it, that’s a lot of feline personality. With so many different cat breeds, how can we get to know them all?

Let’s begin by looking at five feline personalities from across the world. Then in future articles we’ll look at more (like black cats and ginger cats, the Bengal cat and famous cats).

1. Different cat breeds: British Shorthair cat personality

Self-sufficient, good natured and warm-hearted. This is the reputation which precedes a British Shorthair. Though he’s more likely to sit next to you than on your lap, this easy-going feline won’t mind a cuddle. That’s why we’ve said it’s one of the best pets for kids.

With a calm temperament emanating from these wide-cheeked wonders, it’s no wonder this cat inspired the infamously chilled Cheshire Cat from Alice In Wonderland.

2. Different cat breeds: Siamese cat personality

Siamese cats were first bred in Siam (now known as Thailand) and are intelligent, athletic, and loyal. Their gregarious temperament means they’re always willing to share an opinion and can keep the conversation going all day.

Happy around people and other pets, Siamese love sitting on laps or snuggling under covers and do get sad if left alone.

Want to know more? Read our Siamese cat profile.

3. Persian cat personality

With its full and round face and flat teensy nose, the Persian cat’s cuteness matches its intelligence. Famed for being the parlour cat companion to Queen Victoria, the Persian cat first travelled to Europe in the 1600’s from Iran – then known as Persia.

This dignified and relaxed cat prefers to be in a calm and quiet environment and enjoys being groomed. In fact, we listed Persians as some of the best pets for apartments.

Sadly, selective breeding has resulted in a high prevalence of polycystic kidney disease. So, it’s good to know that both our Classic and Deluxe cat insurance plans cover hereditary conditions (after a waiting period passes).

Psst … Before you read on, is exploring all these cat personalities making you wonder which cat (or dog) YOU may be at heart? Find out what pet you are and share it with your friends – click below:

4. Calico cat personality

The Calico cat is not a breed of cat but rather any breed with a tricolour patterned coat. According to the Cat Breeds Encyclopedia, Calico cats are wise, mystical, warm-hearted and lucky. In fact, in folklore history Calicos are often seen as a symbol of good luck.

The German word for a Calico is “Glückskatze”, which translates as “lucky cat.” In Maryland, the Calico cat is the state cat and in Japan the Calico Maneki-neko or beckoning cat figure brings good luck.

5. Maine Coon cat personality

Known as the “gentle giant” the Maine Coonis the largest of the domestic cat breeds. Despite its size, Maine Coons have been called the friendliest cats in the world.

These cats have above average intelligence. In fact, they’ve been known to emulate people by switching off lights and flush toilets! Talkative and playful Maine Coons are relaxed around children, other cats and dogs. However, they’re cautious around strangers.

Learn about the Maine Coon cat here.

Like all pure creatures, cats are practical

While each of these different cat breeds and their personalities make for great family pets, it’s important to remember that every cat has its day. Your cat can become aggressive or frustrated if it gets injured or is on heat. This can result in neighbourhood prowling, fights with other cats and even damage to other people’s property.

Cat insurance from us covers you for non-routine vet visits, accident cover and even third-party liability (which means coverage for damage to others’ property).

Consider what the famous writer and artist William S. Burroughs said: “Like all pure creatures, cats are practical.” Let’s follow suit with the best pet insurance – it will significantly reduce your financial burden if your cat falls ill, has an accident or spends regular time at the vet.

Plus, at the time of writing, we’re offering one or more months of free cat insurance (depending on your kitty’s age) and no lock-in contract. Click below to get started.