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Cats by breed

What each breed is really like to live with, from the breed clubs and veterinary sources that know them. Written for adopters, not buyers.

A B D M P R S

A

AbyssinianMedium-sized; 8–10 pounds; long, lean, muscular body on fine-boned, long legsAmerican BobtailMedium to large; 11–20 pounds; athletic, muscular buildAmerican CurlMedium-sized; females 5–8 pounds, males 7–10 poundsAmerican ShorthairMedium to large; 8–12 poundsAmerican Wirehairmedium to large

B

Balinese5–8 poundsBengal6-12 lb (VCA); medium to large, males notably larger than females; full physical maturity by about 2 yearsBirmanMedium to large; 6–15 poundsBombayMedium; 6–11 pounds; solid, muscular body that feels heavier than it looksBritish Shorthair6-12 lb (VCA); CFA says males can reach 17 lb with females somewhat smaller; full size at about 3 years

D

Domestic LonghairMedium build; VCA lists 11-22 lbDomestic ShorthairMedium; VCA lists 11-22 lb for the domestic long/short hair type, and individuals vary widely

M

Maine CoonLargest pedigreed cat; VCA lists 8-20 lb with males up to 20 lb and bodies up to 40 inches long; CFA says males commonly reach or exceed 20 lb

P

Persian7-12 lb (VCA); medium to large, cobby and heavy-boned

R

Ragdoll15-20 lb (VCA); CFA says mature males commonly reach or exceed 20 lb, females smaller; full size and weight at about 4 yearsRussian Blue7-13 lb (VCA); CFA says males rarely exceed 10 lb and females run 5-8 lb; fine-boned and graceful

S

Siamese5-8 lb (VCA); medium, long, lean and tubularSphynx8-10 lb (VCA); medium-sized with sturdy boning and good muscle; males larger than females