10 POPULAR CAT BREEDS IN INDIA

 10 POPULAR CAT BREEDS IN INDIA

 

 

People say it is not possible to “own a cat” and it is not completely wrong. Cats are territorial – they attach themselves more to territory than to humans. Thus, cats are fundamentally different from dogs. Cats are so intelligent, affectionate and warm, that having a cat as a pet helps to elevate bad mood or cure depression, and is often associated with positive psychological benefits. They are low- maintenance, mostly keep to themselves, don’t stink, and are quieter creatures when compared to dogs. As with any other pet, they become family members. Every time a cat meows and rubs itself against your leg, looking with those soulful eyes, it is bound to warm your heart away.

 If you are planning to adopt or but a cat as pet in India, getting information about different breeds allows easy selection. It also makes it easy to understand the right nourishment and care that requires to be provided.

 

So, what are the most popular cat breeds in India?

1. Indian Billi [Spotted Cat] 
2. Persian Cats 
3. Bombay Cat
4. Himalayan Cat
5. Maine Coon Cat
6. Siamese cat
7. American Bobtail Cat
8. Singapura Cat
9. Bengal Cat
10. British Shorthair Cat

 

 A. Indian Billi [Spotted Cat]:

 

 

 

 

 Indian Billi is a shy and affectionate cat breed that originated in Sri Lanka and India as per historical records.

They are also called spotted cats and are mostly preferred by people for their appearance as they have an unusual beauty.

They adapt well to the Indian climate having originated from the same country and are among the wild ones that avoid human contact. They have a rectangular frame with medium build, strong muscles and bones and a long tail that reaches the shoulder.

Indian Billi has shoulders and hips of even length and legs of medium length with oval shaped paws.

They have grey spots all over the body and a dark skin compared to the appearance of the body colour. The female cats are smaller and more graceful than the male cats.

 

 

 

It has reddish great fur over most of the body and rusty spots on the back and flanks. There are four blackish lines running over the eyes with two of them extending over the neck.

 

The chin, throat, inner sides of the limbs and belly of this breed are whitish and have tiny brownish spots.

"Indian Cat Federation (ICF) is working to get this breed recognized internationally to raise chances of adoption by cat lovers across the globe and a better life for the cats."

In India, there is a natural drift towards foreign breeds which has kept Indian Billi away from the right treatment and acceptance.

These feisty cats are beautiful and can be tamed easily as a house pet as they are shy and affectionate. As a stray, their life is shortened to just about 10 years due to unpleasant factors such as accidents, untreated illness and fights with dogs.

However, with proper care and a comfortable environment, these cats can live up to 18 years.

ICF has collaborated with veterinary colleges across India for carrying out research programmes of this breed and gather information of its unique traits to be able to offer deeper understanding of these cats.

 

B. Persian Cats :

 

The early Persian type cats likely reached us via European trade
originating in Iran (formerly Persia) during the 1600s. The
Himalayan was the result of crossing Persian with Siamese later in
breed development (1920s-1930s) to add the colorpoint pattern,
and is a division of Persian

They were mostly preferred due to their doll faces and were even popular among the nobility including Queen Victoria of England.

This breed has long coat and are characterised by their sweet temperament but they limit their affection to humans they are closest to.

They are praised for their glamorous good looks and calm behaviour. They soon became popular in North America as loving pets and as show pets.

 WEIGHT:  3.5- 7 kg

SIZE : 14- 18 inches long

LIFE SPAN: 10-15 yrs

 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS :

•  COAT : The thick soft undercoat is overlain by a profuse standoff
  outer coat of long soft hairs. Well-developed ruff and frill, and tail
  is heavily haired. Coat texture should not be wooly.
  

•  EYES : The large wide-set eyes are copper or orange. In shaded
  silver, golden and chinchilla, they are blue-green or emerald green.
  In Europe, a copper-eyed shaded silver is termed Pewter. Variable
  colored eyes are present in Persian white cats.

• POINTS OF CONFIRMATION: 

 Persians have a heavy cobby build, small ears with rounded tips. A very short upturned nose and muzzle, with a well defined stop or break between the eyes is present. 

Persian cats have a large rounded broad head. 

Paws are rounded, tufted, and large. Tail is short, and carried low. The neck is short. 

 

PERSIAN CAT KITTEN

 

Peke-faced is a subtype that is extremely foreshortened, similar to a Pekingese dog,while doll-faced cats are more moderate in their brachycephalic head conformation. 

The Peke subtype is specifically described in only certain registries. In ACFA for example, the Peke-faced is recognized as a head indented between eyes, creases following cheekbone; forehead, nose and chin form a perpendicular line.

GROOMING:

High grooming requirements are typical for Persian cats. Once to twice daily grooming to prevent matting is helpful allow 15 minutes minimum daily. Regular baths are also used to help maintain the coat in excellent condition. Daily removal of tears to prevent staining and dermatitis in medical canthus area and facial folds may be required

"Persian cats are high maintenance pets and require regular grooming to avoid tangled and matted fur which can be painful for them."

BEHAVIOUR: 

They are not very energetic or playful and like a warm spot to relax but sometimes get a burst of energy which is followed by a long nap or no activity. They cannot be trained easily as they are slow learners and do not take interest in learning tricks.

 HEALTH ISSUES:

Persian cats are prone to common health issues like kidney disease, respiratory distress, eye conditions, excessive eye watering, bladder infections, heat sensitivity and others due to selective breeding techniques and general illness. Keen observation and quick treatment can cure them easily.

 

C.Bombay Cat:

 

 

 

Bombay Cat is a result of the breeding of long-time cat breeder and exhibitor, Nikki Horner of Kentucky. They were named Bombay because they have the distinction of being the blackest cat and look like Indian Black Panthers.

After they mature, these cats have black coats that are short, tight and extremely shiny.

 

They have black paw pads and shiny black coat with golden eyes which is a striking combination. These cats are small, muscular and deceptively heavy in weight.

"Bombay cats are fully domestic, man-made breed which is a cross between a black American short hair and a sable Burmese."

It can be trained to perform tricks, fetch items and heel on command. This cat breed has been accepted by different cat associations since 1976.

They have wonderful characteristics and make amazing companions. They take time to mature and may not display all of their characteristics until 18 months of age.

They love attention from their human caregivers and like to be carried on the shoulders and sit on laps.

These cats are affectionate and most likely to bond with one family member and follow them everywhere.

 

BOMBAY CAT KITTEN

 

If Bombay cats are left alone at home, they may suffer from lack of attention. They are great with welcoming strangers and do not act aloof.

Bombay cats adapt well to living with people and other pets. These cats love heat sources and sleep near heating vents whenever they get a chance to. They have short coats that require little brushing about once a week and rarely needs to be bathed.

These intelligent and trainable cats are active and always like to play fetch. They can be easily trained to walk on a leash.

They must be taken for regular veterinary check-ups to detect common health issues like sinus problems, runny noses and head deformity at birth.

 Regular vaccinations in early years are important and decision for neutering or spaying must be taken at 5 to 9 months of age as they reach sexual maturity as early as 5 months.

Maintaining dental hygiene and keeping a check on the weight for obesity is also important for their health.

It is better to keep this cat as an indoor-only cat to prevent diseases and injuries.

It is recommended to provide high quality wet food and some dry food as well in their diet. Special diet may be needed for cats with health conditions, kittens and elderly cats.

D.  Himalayan Cat :

Himalayan cats, also known as Himmies, are a hybrid breed of Persian and Siamese cats. After creating and crossing several litters, two medical researchers from Harvard finally produced the first true Himalayan cat.

They are beautiful with long silky coats like Persian cats and pointed colouring with bright blue eyes like Siamese cats.

They have a medium to large size with stocky, thick body and wide, deep chest, a rounded abdomen and sturdy bones.

A healthy Himalayan cat will feel muscular and solid and is not very chubby.

They like attention and affection of their owners and have sweet, playful personalities. This breed is officially recognized by many cat associations since 1957.

"Himalayan cats have long, silky hair that tangles easily and requires brushing with a sturdy, wide-toothed comb every day."

It is important to dedicate some time for their grooming and remove dirt, debris and dust to prevent tangling.

Visiting a professional groomer every few months is also recommended to ensure their coat stays healthy and clean. Trimming their nails keeps them safe, injury-free and also protects the owner’s furniture.

 

 

HIMALAYAN CAT KITTEN

 

Himalayan cats are extremely playful and become mischievous when bored but have low exercise needs.

They can be kept entertained with plenty of cat toys and playtime with their human caregivers.

These cats are susceptible to certain health conditions like kidney disease, respiratory issues and ringworm infections. The nutritional needs of the cat depend on its age, weight and activity levels.

The vet may be able to suggest food that helps in preventing and reducing hairballs which is a common issue in Himalayan cats.

Overfeeding of meals and treats may lead to weight gain which may affect the lifespan of the cats.

E. Maine Coon Cat :

Maine Coon Cat is a natural breed that resembles Norwegian forest cats and is one of the largest  domesticated cats. It has a medium to large, muscular body with broad chest and well balanced rectangular appearance.

It has a heavy, shaggy coat that goes shorter on the shoulder and longer on the britches and stomach. This breed sports a good looking front ruff, ear tufts, foot tufts and has a long flowing tail.

Maine Coon cats have served as barn cats and mousers throughout New England and one has even won Best in Show at the first North American cat show in 1895.

It is often found in brown but comes in a many colours and patterns. It holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest act in the world.

"It is an easy going, loyal, and an affectionate cat breed that are not cling to their human caregivers. They like their independence and will climb onto laps only when they are ready."

Their glorious coat only requires standard amount of grooming. To avoid hairballs it is important to comb their hair weekly to remove dead hair.

Trimming their nails every couple of weeks and providing a scratching post ensures injury-free safety.

Maintaining dental hygiene is as important as regular grooming and may require cleaning from the veterinarian as well. They can be kept busy with toys and can also be trained to fetch and chase laser pointers.

These cats are sociable with other breeds and cat-friendly dogs. These cats are reserved around strangers.

They do well in cold weather and are recommended to be kept as an indoor cat to protect them from diseases, fights, attacks by predators and vehicle accidents.

 

 

 

MAINE COON CAT KITTEN

 

Apart from receiving usual vaccinations and preventative veterinary treatments, they must be checked for inherited heart conditions, muscle weakness disease and hip dysplasia. Some cats are known for a defect of extra toes but that does not affect the cat’s health.

They only need regular diet which is healthy for all cats and must be fed with the right balance of dry and wet food.

Checking the cat’s weight and keeping it under check is necessary to avoid obesity that lowers lifespan.

F. SIAMESE CAT: 

 

 

Siamese cats are medium-sized, muscular cats that originated from Thailand. King of Siam, in 1880, gave two pairs of Siamese cats to an English man who took them home to England and the cats started gaining popularity since then.

These cats have points of darker colour patterns on the ears, face, tail, legs and feet which is their most striking characteristic. It is one of the original breeds of pedigreed cats and came to be officially recognised by Cat Fanciers’ association in 1906.

"Siamese cats have short coat and only require the standard care of weekly brushing session to lessen the risk of hair falls."

Their point pattern comes from recessive genes where dark melanin pigments are produced in cooler areas of the skin.

Their cat claws may need regular trimming every 10 to 14 days and providing a scratching post will keep the cats safe from injuries.

Maintaining good dental hygiene with regular brushing of teeth and regular dental cleaning from veterinarian is also important.

Siamese cats are active, playful, curious and can be trained easily. They like to climb and should be provided with a cat tree or a similar structure. They like chase-toys and will end up doing mischief if left without a source of entertainment.

They bond easily with humans, sit on laps and may get depressed if left alone without attention for a long time. They are one of the most vocal cats and will keep talking till you pay attention to them.

They blend well in families with children and with cat-friendly dog breeds. Young children need to be taught how to treat the cat properly.

 

 

SIAMESE CAT KITTEN

 

They live longer as indoor-only cats and it also prevents exposure to various diseases.

In Siamese cats, apart from the most prevalent health concern of eye conditions, there are other common health problems. Respiratory diseases, liver problems, disrupted kidney function disease and heart defects are some major issues.

Siamese cats may overeat if there is free access to food which may lead to obesity with shortened lifespan or unhealthy old age.

It is important to provide them with a balance of wet and dry food and a modified diet with advancing age by discussing with a veterinarian.

 F. AMERICAN BOBTAIL CAT :

 

 

The American Bobtail Cats are a result of a natural, harmless mutation of cats with bobtails. In 1960s, the American Bobtail cat became an official breed. It is best known for its shortened tails and unique, wild appearances.

They have a sweet, affectionate and docile temperament which makes them an ideal pet for families with older kids and other pets at home.

They have an adaptable, friendly personality that suits any home type and are perfect to be employed as therapy cats.

They are friendly towards extreme strangers and prove great companions to long distance truckers as they travel extremely well. They are playful, love to play fetch with their owners and can be easily trained at leash walking.

"American Bobtail cats are relatively low maintenance and require brushing once or twice a week to remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny and healthy."

It is important to maintain dental hygiene by brushing teeth at least once a week and supplementing plaque-controlling treats.

Trim their nails regularly to keep their paws healthy and avoid injuries, furniture tears and boredom-induced scratching. They have lower exercise requirements but little playtime will keep them happy and active.

 

 

AMERICAN BOBTAIL KITTEN

 

 

American Bobtail cats have a massive gene pool and are generally healthy cats with no predispositions to inherited health conditions. Spinal issues, kidney diseases and heart issues may affect their health and may need quick preventative measures or cure from veterinarian.

The intake and diet balance largely depends on the age, activity levels and general heath of the cats.

For variation in taste and texture, wet and dry food can be mixed for a change of diet a few times per week.

 G. SINGAPURA CAT

 

 

 

Singapura cat, also known as Pura, is the smallest domestic cat breed and has unique looks with a loving personality. It originated on the streets of Singapore and is now bought as prized pets around the world.

A fully grown Singapura cat weighs 4 to 8 pounds and sports large, round eyes and sepia-coloured coat. These social cats are full of affection and love with some mischievous behaviour and curiosity.

They are people oriented cats that love to be a part of the daily activities of their family and are happiest in company of humans and cat-friendly dogs as well. Their tiny body is sturdy and muscular well equipped for climbing and energetic activities.

Singapura cats can be kept entertained with cat trees, playgrounds, puzzles and toys and scratching post.

They have a short coat and low grooming needs of weekly brushing. Checking ears, trimming nails and maintaining dental hygiene is also necessary.

"Singapura cat is a highly intelligent breed and picks tricks quickly which makes training easier."

Some common health problems include obesity, ear infections and breed specific problems like Pyruvate kinase deficiency and uterine inertia for pregnant females.

 

 

SINGAPURA CAT KITTEN

 

Singapura cats must be given high quality cat food with an option of raw food diet according to cat’s nutrition needs. Consulting a veterinarian for diet courses according to the cat’s likes and dislikes is also an option.

It is an uncommon breed and may not be easily found in local shelters.

Checking with local rescue organisations may help and national and local breed organisations will help find reputable breeders who have this breed.

 H. BENGAL CAT:

 

 

 

Bengal cats are considered a hybrid breed but are accepted as a pure breed by several organisations due to its three-generation presence.

Though there have been many contributions in the past and future, the main credit of the Bengal cat hybrid goes to Jean Sudgen Mill.

She acquired hybrids of African leopard cats and domestic cats to study their genetics. She further bred these hybrids with domestic cats to produce a breed with personality of domestic cat and an exotic look.

Bengal cats are named after the Asian leopard cat and have been cross bred with domestic cats like Abyssinian, Egyptian mau or American shorthair.

"Bengal cats are beautiful, smart, wild looking cats with growing popularity due to its patterns and personalities."

Though their official markings are considered as either spotted or marbled, they have varying display of wild looking markings like rosettes, stripes and spots. The original coat is normally brown but is available in other coat colours as well.

They have white background fur on their whisker pads, chin, chest, abdomen and inner legs. They were first recognized as an experimental breed by TICA in 1983 and received full recognition in 1993.

Bengal cats are simple large house cats that require minimal grooming of weekly combing to remove dead cells, hair and prevent hairballs.

It is important to trim cat’s nails every couple of weeks, provide a scratching post and clean litter box regularly.

They are active cats that love to climb, chase lasers, play fetch and must be kept engaged with cat toys.

 

BENGAL CAT KITTEN

 

These cats love water but must be kept as indoor-only cats to prevent from catching diseases, injuries and getting into fights.

Bengal cats get along with dogs and other cat breeds but may have a prey-drive for smaller pets like hamsters and guinea pigs. They must be given immunizations and preventative health treatments but will still be prone to genetic diseases.

Autosomal recessive disorder, rolling of eyelids and other infections may be some of the commonly found health problems in Bengal cats.

It is practical to buy a formulated, grain-free diet or give them raw diet.

 I. BRITISH SHORTHAIR :

 

 

 

British Shorthair cat is one of the oldest English cat breeds that are known for their calm and quiet temperament. This breed has Roman roots and may have been brought to England when the Romans invaded England.

They became street dogs of Britain and with the help of breeding programs and cross breeding; today’s British Shorthair was created. They have been registered in many cat associations and clubs since 1967

British Shorthair cats have pleasant expressions, round features and have earned a special place as a household cat in Britain and around the world. They have a round head, bright round eyes, chubby cheeks, round paws and a tail with rounded tip.

They come in different coat colours but one of the most popular ones is a striking blue colour and hence this breed is sometimes referred as the British Blue.

"British shorthair cats are easy going cats that do not overly demand attention or grooming."

This breed is not very vocal. They have dense, plush short hair and require removing of loose hairs and dander several times a week to prevent hairballs. They may need more brushing during spring when they shed their winter coat.

They do not particularly like to be held or carried but enjoy the company of human family members and sending time with them in the same room.

 

BRITISH SHORTHAIR KITTEN

They have low exercise needs and cannot jump on high counters as they are vertically challenged.

It is important to engage the cat to play regularly to avoid inactivity and encourage good health and mental stimulation. They can tolerate being alone at home for extended time period without suffering social anxiety.

They have a vast genetic pool which makes them a healthy breed with less genetic problems. However, they may be at risk for Haemophilia B, which is a hereditary bleeding disorder and must also be kept in check to avoid obesity.

British Shorthair breed cats benefit from a balanced diet with quality ingredients. They must be fed according to their age, activity and energy levels.