There is a great diversity of cat breeds. They are distinguished by the size, appearance of the coat, the shape of the head and of course, the temperament of cats. Whether you are looking for a very cuddly cat, an independent feline, or a little ball of energy, there is a cat breed for you. Cat breeds are generally classified into three main types: Europeans, Persians and Orientals.

European type cats have small, elongated noses. This large group includes all “common” cats, long or short haired, without any particular breed. It also includes many of the most common breeds in France.

Some breeds are known for their very gentle and docile character. The Sacred of Burma or the Ragdoll thus have the reputation of being calm and of acclimating very well to a family life. Their long coat does not require excessive maintenance either with a simple brushing, once a week.

Other breeds are appreciated for their large build and wild appearance. These include, for example, the Maine Coon with the appearance of a lion or the Norwegian, with the air of a wild cat. The Maine Coon is considered the largest domestic cat. Large males often exceed 10 kg. These two large cats can adapt very well to living in an apartment as long as you spend time with them.

If you prefer a more dynamic and playful breed, the Chartreux, a very old breed, or the Russian are likely to appeal to you. The Carthusian is generally of a strong willed and intelligent temperament. The Russian or the long-haired variant, the Nebelung, is a sometimes shy cat but very close to his master.

For a companion with an atypical look, you can opt for the American Curl, a cat with a sophisticated look and small curved ears. The Munchkin is also a unique breed with very short legs. These cats, lively and dynamic, do not interfere with playing and climbing.

There is a category of so-called “brachycephalic” cats, ie cats with a short head and a snub nose. The most famous representative of this group is the Persian. This delicate cat is more suitable for indoor life. Quiet and not very talkative, he is not a great climber. Its long, soft coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles that can become problematic. If you don’t feel ready to ensure proper coat hygiene for a Persian, you can opt for the short-haired variant, the Exotic Shorthair, which is slightly brighter.

Then come a whole group of breeds from the United Kingdom, often crossed with the Persian:

• le British, Shorthair or Longhair ;
• le Scottish Straight ;
• the Highland Straight.

More recently, breeds with atypical ears have appeared with the Scottish Fold, short-haired, or the Highland Fold, long-haired. These cats wear short ears, folded forward, which follow the rounded shape of the head.

For a cat with a surprising physique, you can bet on the Selkirk Rex. This cat from Montana has the round face typical of Persian cats but an original, curly coat. This original coat, associated with a cuddly and playful temperament, makes it an excellent pet cat.

Oriental-type cats are easily recognizable by their very elongated triangular head. They are generally hyperactive and very talkative cats. Very close to their owners, they often do not tolerate solitude. They are therefore excellent companion cats if you do not want an independent or discreet cat.

The most typical representatives of this character are the Siamese and the Orientals. These cats with short hair and a fine and muscular body will not leave you indifferent with their assertive temperament. Abyssinians or Somalis have a slightly different coat and softer face, but are also very keen on contact.

There are other cats, with similar personalities, but different looks. Some breeds notably have a short, curly coat that is very soft to the touch. This is the case of the Devon Rex or the Cornish Rex. Other breeds have hairless skin which gives them a unique feel. The most famous hairless cat is the Sphynx, a real glue pot that loves cuddles. However, it is not the only one. Some Peterbalds do not have hair either when others have a short coat like a chamois or a short, curly and hard coat.

Be careful, however, hairless cats require regular baths to eliminate the excess sebum produced. If the exuberant character of the Orientals doesn’t entirely appeal to you, the Turkish Angora or the Tonkinese can be the perfect compromise. Close to their owners and lively, they also know how to be discreet.

The ambition of many breeders is to create a cat with the physique of a wild feline. Various breeds have therefore been created by crossing domestic breeds with felid species from various regions of the world. A representative of this fashion, although rather distant from its leopard cat ancestors, the Bengal has become very popular in recent years. Playful, dynamic, curious and friendly, he is an excellent companion cat.

Two other races are still very close to their wild origins today. Their large size and their power make these cats ill-suited to apartment living. This is particularly the case of Savannah, a hybrid of leopard cats, or of Chausie, resulting from crosses with Felis chaus.

Whatever your inclination, rather for calm and cuddly cats, lively and playful cats or exuberant and talkative cats, there is an ideal breed for your household. It’s up to you to choose the physique and especially the temperament that best suits your lifestyle.