In this section, we profile 13 cat breeds. If you would like to read some more about a specific breed before you choose, have a look in our shop for the range of breed books.

Once you have made your decision, if you cannot find what you are looking for at your local rescue centre why not approach a Breed Rescue? Virtually every breed is represented and there are rescues all over the UK - visit Catchat for details of the nearest Breed Rescue for the breed you are interested in.

The Abyssinian is often considered to be the cat that the Ancient Egyptians worshipped, as it looks similar to the mummified cats discovered. Abysinnians are medium-sized, very elegant, regal-looking cats with strong, lithe bodies and long, slender legs. Their paws are small and oval. They have round, wedge-shaped heads with distinctive tuffed tips on their ears which are large, pointed and set wide apart. Their eyes are large and almond-shaped and their tails are fairly long, broad at the base and tapering to a point.

The Abyssinian is intelligent and curious, but this is tempered with a cautious streak. It is extremely loyal, and will become very attached to its family. The worst thing that you can do to an Abyssinian is deprive it of human company and it is important that it lives in a household where people are usually at home. It hates being confined, and needs plenty of space. It is a good climber, and will appreciate a garden full of trees and high places. This cat is not much of a talker, but will still let its owner know exactly what it wants. It is playful and inquisitive but also sensible and will not rush into situations recklessly. After a game it will be happiest sat on its owners lap being stroked and petted.

Male Abyssinians will generally tolerate other cats as well, but the female may be a little wary and prefer to be the only cat in the family. Both sexes can form strong attachments to dogs.

The Abysinnian's coat is relatively easy to care for. Brush and comb through the coat occasionally. Abyssinian cats are robust health wise, but like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

The domestic Bengal has inherited the exotic and stunningly wild-spotted pattern from the Asian Leopard Cat, found in the wild all over central Asia. This beautiful cat is loving, affectionate and friendly whilst retaining the uniqueness of its wild ancestors. Bengals are very muscular cats with long bodies. They are also sturdy and substantial in appearance. Heads are wild-looking and formidable. Their faces usually have a feral expression with small rounded ears, intense facial markings, and pronounced whisker pads.

The Bengal can be very mischievous and boisterous. They are active cats always ready to play. They are also very vocal, intelligent, loving and people-orientated cats, always eager for human companionship and approval. The Bengal can be very 'dog-like' in personality, following their owner from room to room and always greeting them with a loving welcome. The Bengal also mixes well with children and other animals. These majestic cats will be a loyal life companion.

Bengals are unique as they love and enjoy water, and will play for hours with a dripping tap. As a cautionary note, it is important never to leave the toilet seat up in case your Bengal gets bleach poisoning and you should not leave the bath unattended whilst running hot water in case your cat scalds herself. Being energetic, Bengals can be known to accidentally scratch people whilst galloping over them or jumping from them - a factor that needs to be considered if you have small children or find the occasional scratch a problem. Some Bengals might prefer to use shredded paper instead of commercial cat litter.

Bengals are quite robust health-wise and not susceptible to any particular problems, however like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet. The Bengal comes in two coat patterns: marbled and spotted.

The Birman cat has no clear origins, but it is believed to have originated in Burma where it was considered sacred. Around the year 1919 a pair of Birman cats, a male and a female, was brought from Burma to France. The male cat did not survive the long journey, but the female did and was pregnant. From this small foundation, the Birman became established in the western world. The Birman is bright, active and playful. It is gentle, laid back, loving, affectionate and social. It truly enjoys the company of people and takes an intelligent interest in everything that its owners do. It also loves investigating everything and occasionally gets into mischief. The Birman is an ideal family pet as it is generally good with children, and tends to get along well with other animals.

Birmans are very easy to groom; they have a single-layer coat that will only need to be combed once a week. The Birman is a healthy cat with no breed-specific health problems. As with all cats it is important to have annual health checks with a vet.

The British Shorthair is probably the oldest English breed of cat, and its ancestry can be traced back to the domestic cats of Rome. It is in fact thought that the invading Roman troops first brought short hair cats to Britain. The British Shorthair is a stocky, compact, powerful cat with a broad chest, short strong legs and a thick tail. Its head is round; so are its eyes, cheeks and paws. It has a built-in smile caused by its round whisker pads. Its coat is dense, firm and well-bodied.

The British Shorthair is an easy-going breed, has a stable character and a gentle disposition that has earnt it the name 'gentle giant'. It is affectionate, intelligent and alert and always in control of its environment, supervising everything its owners do. It is an extremely loyal and people-orientated cat, is good with children and tends to get on well with other animals.

One of the reasons that the British Shorthair became so popular in the last century was because it needs no grooming. The coat is short and dense and the cat can easily look after itself. This is a sturdy, healthy breed and suffers from no specific health problems, but like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

The Exotic Shorthair is really a shorthaired Persian; the breed is a result of careful selective breeding in America using American shorthairs and Persian longhairs. The aim was to produce a cat that looked like a Persian in every way except for the coat. The coat, which is of medium length, is much easier to care for but still has the huge range of colours and patterns. The Exotic Shorthair is a medium-sized cat. Its head is round and massive with a broad skull. Its ears are small and round tipped and set low and well apart. Its nose is broad and short and its eyes are large and round, set well apart and brilliant in colour. Its body is compact with a deep broad chest and its legs are short, thick and strong. It has round large paws and a short tail.

The Exotic Shorthair has the same gentle, affectionate nature as its longhaired cousins. It is good with children and not as boisterous as may shorthaired breeds. The Exotic is a quiet, sweet, peaceful and loyal companion. It is easy-going and not easily disturbed.

Although easy to keep in condition compared with its longhaired cousins, the Exotic Shorthair's coat still needs some attention. Regular grooming will keep dead hair from clogging up the coat. Its large eyes mean it produces tears, so a daily face wash is recommended. The Exotic Shorthair is not particularly active and can be prone to obesity so close attention needs to be paid to its diet.

The Exotic Shorthair is a robust healthy cat with no specific health problems, but like any other breed it should have annual health checks with a vet.

The Maine Coon is North America's only native long-haired breed. Originally a working cat, these cats were recognised as a specific breed in Maine where they were held in high regard for their adeptness for keeping down the mouse population. The Maine Coon is massive in size, with a powerful muscular body and substantial legs. Its ears are large and tall, wide at the base and tapering to a pointed tip. Its eyes are spaced well apart and are full and round; the colour may be grey, gold or copper. Its tail is long - at least the length of the back. 

Also known as the 'gentle giant' of the cat family, Maine Coons have a sweet nature and are playful and friendly. They enjoy human company and are noted for the delightful quiet chirping sound they make. The Maine Coon is well known for its loving nature, amicable disposition and great intelligence. They can easily learn to fetch and are very loyal pets and enjoy the companionship of both humans and other pet animals.

The Maine Coon's coat is fairly self-maintaining but needs grooming to keep it in good condition. The coat is semi-long and thick and consists of an undercoat covered by a substantial glossy top coat which is also waterproof. These cats seem to love water; however it is important never to leave the toilet seat up in case your cat gets bleach poisoning, and you should not leave the bath unattended whilst running hot water in case your cat scalds herself.

Maine Coons are robust, healthy cats and suffer from no specific health problems but as with all cats it is important for them to have annual health checks with a vet.

The Ocicat is the result of an accidental mating in the 1960s. A seal-point Siamese and an Abbyssinian were mated in an attempt by an American to produce an Abysinnian-pointed Siamese. One of the resultant kittens had an amazing coat with gold spots on an ivory background and looked like the wild Ocelot; as a consequence the name Ocicat was given to this new breed. By the early 1980s the Ocicat was increasing in popularity and the breed gained provisional status in America.

The Ocicat is a medium to large cat with a well-spotted coat. Its head is wedge-shaped and is carried on an elegant, arched neck. Its body is solid with substantial bone and muscle. Its chest is deep and broad and its back is straight and slightly higher at the rear giving the impression of a wild hunting cat.

The Oriental is really a Siamese with a different colour coat and green eyes. The shape and temperament are exactly the same as the Siamese. The Oriental is a breed created from Siamese origins but crossed with other breeds to produce the different colours. The Oriental is medium in size but feels heavier than it looks. Its head is long and tapers from its ears in straight lines to a fine muzzle forming a triangle. Its ears are large and pricked and set to follow the lines of the wedge. Its eyes are oriental in shape and slant towards its nose. Its legs are long and slim with the hind legs higher than the fore legs. Its tail is long and tapering.

Like the Siamese, Orientals are intelligent, curious cats that make their presence known. They are natural entertainers - full of enthusiasm, energy and the belief that the world revolves around them. Extremely people-orientated and trusting, they show a deep dependence on their owners and can become distressed or depressed if left alone too often, so having two can be a good idea if they are likely to be left for any amount of time. The breed's vocal tone is generally softer and milder than that of the Siamese, but they are never at a loss for words. They love to talk to their owners and expect a reply. Orientals need to be kept amused with toys and enjoy playing games like fetch with a ball of scrunched-up paper. Their curiosity can get them into trouble and living by a busy road could end in tragedy. Their friendliness and confidence means that if they don't get enough attention at home they could decide to find another owner, so before rehoming an Oriental make sure you have the time that she deserves.

Oriental shorthairs need very little grooming. Their coats are very short with no noticeable undercoat. Oriental longhairs need a bit more grooming, but not as much as some long haired breeds. Their hair is medium long in length with no undercoat, which means tangles and mats do not form easily. Oriental cats have no specific health problems and can live well into their teens, but like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

The Persian cat, named after its country of origin, was brought into Europe by 17th century explorers along with jewels, silks and spices. Regarded as 'luxury' it soon became the feline status symbol of the elite. The first references to this breed are in hieroglyphs, as early as 1684BC, which gives uncertainty to their exact beginning.

The Persian is a medium to large-sized cat with a heavy bone strcutre; and has a chunky body referred to as 'cobby', supported by short, thick sturdy legs. Its tail is short, broad and in good proportion to the body. Despite its stocky appearance, the Persian moves with unexpected agility. Its head is round and large with small ears set far apart and low on its head. Its jaws are broad and strong with full cheeks and a well-developed chin. Persians have large, round eyes and a long, thick coat which stands away from the body. Proper maintenance of the coat requires daily grooming to eliminate the potential drawbacks of tangles and hairballs.

The Persian has a quiet, gentle disposition and a laid-back personality. Although placid, it is playful but not demandingly so. It is responsive to humans and communicates with its quiet, melodic voice and its expressive eyes. Persians are affectionate and loving but will not demand constant attention and will not pine while its owners are out during the day. Its temperament allows it to adjust to new environments with ease and makes it a delightful companion.

It is important that if you are thinking of rehoming a Persian you have the time to devote to grooming and general care.

Proper coat maintenance means a daily run through with a metal comb to eliminate tangles and reduce hairballs. An occasional bath will keep the coat clean and healthy. It is wise to establish the bath 'routine' when the cat is young. Persian's large eyes mean that they produce 'tears' and a daily face wash is recommended. Breed problems include polycystic kidney disease, which can be scanned for. Like any other breed Persians need annual health checks with a vet.

The first Ragdoll kittens were born in California in the 1960s. They may have been the result of a mating between a white Persian queen and a Birman tom. When picked up the cat becomes relaxed and as floppy as a ragdoll; from which it takes its name.

The Ragdoll is a large, powerful, imposing cat with distinctive markings. Its broad head has a flat top and is wide between the ears. Its ears are medium-sized, are rounded at the tip and tilt forward slightly. Its eyes are large and deep blue in colour. Its body is long and muscular with a broad chest and short neck. Its legs are substantially boned and medium in length. Its tail is long and bushy. Ragdolls do not mature until they are about three or four years old.

The Ragdoll is possibly the most laid back of all the domestic cat breeds. It is content, undemanding and tolerant. It is docile, affectionate, intelligent, playful , people-oriented cats that adore humans. Always considerate and gentle, they make ideal pets for children and get along well with dogs and other cats. It is not suprising that these beautiful cats are considered the gentlest of the breeds.

The Ragdoll requires regular grooming to keep its striking coat in good condition. Daily attention will prevent a build-up of knots and the fight that comes to remove tangles and matts from a neglected coat. Although the Ragdoll is a large cat it is not very active; care must be taken not to let this breed become obese. It is considered to be the largest fully domestic breed of cat, sometimes reaching 20 pounds or more. Full size and weight is often reached at the age of four years old although females are proportionally smaller.

Ragdolls are quite robust health-wise and are not susceptible to any particular problems, however like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

Originally known as the 'archangel cat' the Russian Blue arrived in Europe aboard ships from the Russian port of that name. However, there is some confusion regarding the origins of the breed. It has been known as the Spanish and the Maltese Cat, particularly in the US where the name persisted until the beginning of the century; but there is strong evidence linking the car with Russia.

The Russian is an exquisite-looking cat with a plush double coat shimmering with silver highlights, a sleek appearance and mischievous emerald green eyes. It has prominent whisker pads and almost appears as if it is smiling. Its nose leather and paw pads are soft and lilac in colour.

Russian Blue cats are quiet and sensitive; sometimes shy and reserved but are also tremendously loyal to their chosen human being. They may be cautious of strangers and take time to develop a friendship with humans but it is often worthwhile as Russian Blues can become devoted pets. Once settled in a loving environment they love to play with toys and enjoy jumping. climbing and racing around and are extremely agile and light-footed. They love human attention and can appear to be hurt if rejected.

Like most shorthair breeds the Russian Blue does not require much grooming to keep the coat healthy but it does love attention and brushing with a soft brush. Russian Blues can be good eaters and can be prone to weight gain. It likes routine and dislikes environmental changes more than the average cat, so keep this is in consideration if you are planning to move or doing house improvements.

The Russian Blue is a healthy breed and is capable of living into their late teens, however like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

The Siamese is considered one of the oldest breeds of cats and was first officially exported from Thailand, once known as Siam, in the 18th century. The first one to appear in England in the same century was a gift to an English ambassador returning home.

The Siamese is a small to medium-sized, slender, muscular and elegant cat with a long body and tail. Its head is long and wedge-shaped in proportion to its elegant neck. Its ears are large and pricked, wide at the base and set well apart; its eyes are almond-shaped and deep vivid blue and its jaws are firm and well-defined. Its coat is short and silky with a fine texture.

The Siamese is a great communicator and its voice is legendary as it can be noisy and demanding. It has an outgoing personality, is very people orientated and has a strong need to be part of the family. It loves company and spending time with its owners, is a real lap cat and does not like to be left on its own. The Siamese will give its owner life-long devotion, charming them with its warm pesonality and striking looks.

A Siamese is not ideal for someone who will be out all day as they don't like to be left alone. It is a highly intelligent cat and needs to be kept amused - toys and scratching posts should be provided and they can be taught to retrieve toys. Siamese tend to settle best with cats of their own type as they can be territorial and bully less dominant breeds such as the longhairs.

The short glossy coat of the Siamese does not require excessive grooming however the cat will enjoy the attention from being groomed. Siamese cats have no specific health problems and they are capable of living well into their teens, but like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.

The Turkish Van originates from the area surrounding Lake Van in Turkey and has been domesticated there for hundreds of years. In the 1950s a pair of Turkish Vans was brought back to Britain by a holidaying couple and they began to breed these distinctively marked cats.

The Turkish Van is a large muscular yet elegant cat with a white body and a distinctively coloured head and tail. Its large ears are close together and set high on its head. Its eyes are large, oval and expressive. Its body is long and sturdy with a broad, muscular chest and its legs are medium in length with round, tufted paws. Its tail has a full brush and balances the body in length.

Turkish Vans are extremely intelligent and friendly and they make excellent companions. They have soft, quiet voices and are lively cats that will enjoy playing games with humans or other cats. The most amazing characteristic of the Turkish van is its affinity to water. It enjoys swimming and may like to take a dip in the bath.

Because of the Turkish Van's liking of water, safety is particularly important. Never leave the toilet seat up in case your Van gets bleach poisoning. You should not leave the bath unattended whilst running hot water in case she scalds herself.

Turkish Vans require regular grooming to keep their beautiful silky coats tangle free; it is best to do this on a daily basis so as to avoid tangeles and matts. The Turkish Van is a robust healthy cat, therefore it is likely to have a long and healthy life. However like any other breed they should have annual health checks with a vet.