Breed Information: Persian

Breed Description: The Persian is perhaps the best-known and most easily recognized of the cat breeds today. In appearance, it is a medium-sized cat with a short, compact body, deep chest, muscular shoulders, short, strong legs, and a short powerful neck. The Persian's head is massive and round with small ears, large, expressive eyes and a short snub nose. The cat's coat is dense and long, forming a full mane and a bushy tail.

History & Origin: This breed is thought to descend from the Angora cats of Turkey that were brought back to Europe by sailors and merchants and eventually crossed with other breeds to create a heavier build and longer, thicker coat.

Character & Temperament: This breed is one of the most well-mannered and quiet. It makes an excellent companion because it loves attention. When you pick up a Persian to hug it, it may wrap its paws around your neck, while purring and nudging you with affection. Most Persians are quiet and although appreciate having another feline companion, cope well with being left alone. Generally good-natured and friendly, this breed slow to show anger and is good around children.

Color: Persians come in all manner of colors and patterns. In the U.S., colors are split into several different categories for show purposes: solid colors, shaded colors, smokes, tabby patterns, paricolors and point-restricted colors.

Coat Type: Long, flowing and very full.

Grooming: This breed is not for someone who does not have time to commit to grooming. Persians need daily combing to keep their long coats free of mats and tangles. They should be bathed every few months. Due to watering eyes, their faces need to be cleaned and wiped of stains daily. Claws should be trimmed and ears cleaned when necessary. Health Considerations: White cats are prone to deafness; Persians are also prone to breathing problems and clogged tear ducts.

Trivia: The Persian has the longest and thickest coat of all domestic cats.