The Persian cat is one of the oldest breeds of cat. In Britain, it is called the “Longhair” or “Persian Longhair” (tipped varieties are known as Chinchilla).
History: The Persian is believed to have originated from Iran (formerly Persia) and the neighbouring countries. Travellers would send the aboriginal longhair cats that they came across there to Europe. The Persian longhairs are reported to have been discovered there by Europeans in 1614. Then the cats were kept by nobles in France and Italy. In England the Persian was first registered among the first cats breeds. Now the Persian is the most popular cats breed in the world.
Appearance: The ideal Persian should present an impression of a heavily boned, well-balanced cat with a sweet expression and soft, round lines. The large round eyes set wide apart in a large round head contribute to the overall look and expression. The head should be of a heavy broad type. The ears are set far apart, and the muzzle is extremely foreshortened. The nose leather must be fully formed and the upper edge must not be above the lower edge of the eye. The chest is broad with massive shoulders and rump. The legs are short, thick and strong with large round paws that have ample tufts. The tail is short and bushy. The coat is long and thick, standing off from the body, of fine texture, glossy and full of life; long all over the body, including the shoulders.
Size: Weight: 3.5-5.5 kg
Temperament: Their sweet, gentle, personalities blend into most households once they feel secure in their new environment. Creatures of habit, they are most at home in an atmosphere of security and serenity, but with love and reassurance, can easily adapt to the most boisterous of households. Persians are very good-natured, sweet cats. Generally speaking they do not mind living on their own and are quite content to be an only cat. They are ideal for those who want an indoor cat, as they are quite content to sit and look pretty. They are placid, playful but never obtrusive. Persians’ gentle temperament is one of distinguishing features of the breed. The Persian is “a noble” in the cats’ world. They are very adaptive to different places and make charming pets.
Health: Persian breeders dedicate themselves to breeding healthy cats, availing themselves of the latest in veterinary screening procedures to test for any heritable disease conditions. A well-bred Persian is a hardy and healthy cat and is not more prone to illness and respiratory infections than other breeds. However, the large eyes do mean that a certain amount of tearing is normal, and a daily face wash is recommended.
Life expectancy: over 15 years
Grooming: Because their fur is too long and dense for them to maintain themselves, Persian cats need regular grooming. To keep their fur in its best condition, they must be bathed regularly, dried carefully afterwards, and brushed thoroughly every day.
Kitten price: $400.00 - $1.500.00