Types of Cats

Cats make wonderful rewarding pets that can enrich your life.  Before you buy a new kitten or cat however, you might like to narrow down your choice of different types of cats, to determine which is the right one for you and your family's lifestyle.  Cats can live to between 15-20 years of age, so it's important that you make the right choice now!

There are over 40 different cat breeds available. You may already have some favourites, or may be familiar with certain personality characteristics of a couple of breeds.

Even if you are not looking for a purebred cat, personality characteristics and coat should be considered.  Cross-breeds are commonly referred to as domestic short-haired or domestic long-haired depending on the length of their coat, but even within such a broad category, there are ways you can determine if a cat or kitten is the right one for you. 

Firstly, think about your household and decide what personality characteristics will be important.  Does the cat need to share a home with young children?  Will it be alone most of the day while everyone is at work?  Do you live in an apartment?  Do you have other pets?

Secondly, learn about different types of cats, and which have these matching personality characteristics.  You can research breeds by going to local cat shows, or by asking your local veterinary surgery or pet shop employees. 

If you decide not to get a purebred, try to find out as much about a cross-breed kitten or cat before you commit to owning it.  If it is very demanding and wants to be picked up or held, it could become very lonely if there will be no one home in your house each day to keep it company.  On the other hand, if a cat or kitten seems overly shy and timid, and struggles when you pick it up, it may not have been socialised with human contact, and may need a lot of time and patience before it bonds with you.

Take your time in choosing a new cat or kitten.  Making an informed choice about different types of cats will give you the confidence that your new pet will fit well into your household, and bring you joy for many years to come.