Page 16 - Complete Cat Care: How To Keep Your Cat Healthy and Happy

Choosing a cat breed

There is a bewildering variety of shapes and sizes, colors, and coat types to
choose from if you opt for a pedigree cat. However much looks appeal, you
should consider a breed’s personality and needs before coming to a decision.

Do your research if your pet is a noisy and hyperactive mischief-maker
Most people fall in love with a particular breed of cat when you wanted a peaceable lap cat.
because of its looks, but there are other important The advantage of having a pedigree cat is that you
points to consider. Different breeds have distinct can find out beforehand what you could be letting
characteristics and varying requirements in terms yourself in for. Do some research in advance—breed
of daily care, companionship, space to roam, and websites are often an excellent source of information.
mental stimulation. You cannot have a happy cat If possible, visit a cat show on a fact-finding mission,
if your lifestyle is not compatible with the breed’s but be prepared to find all the breeds you look
temperament. And you will not be a happy owner at equally appealing.

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Your new cat ▷ Maine Coon

One of the largest of all cat
breeds, the Maine Coon is
a gentle giant with a
playful nature. The shaggy,
semi-longhaired coat
changes seasonally; be
prepared for heavy shedding
of the thick undercoat in
warmer weather. △ Persian
Sweet-tempered and home-loving, a Persian
likes to take life quietly. Daily grooming is
essential to prevent the long coat from tangling
or matting. The Golden Persian shown here is
just one of the many color variations available.

◁ Exotic Shorthair
A shorter-coated version of the Persian, the
Exotic has the same round-faced appeal and
placid temperament of its cousin, but needs
far less grooming. Content to spend life indoors,
it makes a good pet for flat-dwellers.

△ Siamese ▷ Russian Blue
There is never a dull moment This lithe and leggy breed
with a Siamese in the house. Noisy, with a smoky, plush coat has
mischievous, and always on the go, become extremely popular
this cat expects a lot of attention, over the last century. Russian
which it repays with devoted Blues are calm, easy to live
attachment to its owner. with, and very affectionate
toward their owner, although a
little reserved with strangers.

US_014-015_Choosing_a_cat_breed.indd 14 24/10/2013 14:58