Persian Cat Breed Description

Introduction

This feline has large eyes that are round in shape and set wide apart. Its long, dense coat compliments its well balanced body and appearance. The Persian comes in a variety of solid, parti and shaded colors. Persians with the color point pattern are usually called Himalayans. The Persian is a docile, gentle, affectionate cat. Their long hair mats easily and grooming is necessary. Contact the cat breeders below for your next family friend.

Breed History

The origin of this cat is believed to have been Persia, which is currently known as Iran. However, there are hieroglyphics on some pyramid walls that bear a resemblance to Persian cats. The cats were customarily traded for commodities in respect to the value they were accorded for their temperament and beauty, which aided in their popularity all over the world. In 1620, Pietro Della Valle imported this breed's earliest documented ancestors into Italy from Persia before their introduction into Turkey, France and Britain (in that order). In those earlier centuries, the appearance of the Persian cat differed considerably from today's standard.

General Description

Persian cats come in an assortment of colors and numerous patterns. They can have any markings and color including tortoiseshell, pointed or tabby and golden or blue respectively. They have short legs, an extremely long and thick coat and a broad head with ears that are set considerably far apart. The cat's muzzle is extremely foreshortened and in relation to their generally squashed faces. Moderate discharge is common on their tear ducts.

Temperament

One of the most significant things about the nature of Persian cats is their gentle disposition and their ease in adjusting to new surroundings, which makes them perfect show cats. They are relatively quiet, although not necessarily shy, with a tendency of being undemonstrative. Persian cats are affectionate, quiet, loving and make favorable companions, but are not inclined to demand the undivided attention of their owner; neither do they become pushy. Due to their cobby body style, they do not have a tendency of jumping high. They enjoy playing and running, but usually spend a considerable portion of their time sleeping. This contributes to their suitability for apartment living, since they hardly require much space for exercise. In respect to the loyalty they have with their families, their likelihood of straying is minimal.

Health and Care

The Persian cat is healthy and hardy; although the ones with extremely squashed faces commonly have respiratory problems in addition to being prone to tearing. To maintain optimal health, they are preferably kept indoors and their coats groomed everyday. The medical problems that Persian cats are commonly prone to include nostril constriction, overflow of the tear duct, cherry flow, dental malocclusions, seborrhea oleosa and entropion. The eyes of Persian cats are quite large and should be regularly checked for problems because the cats may be incapable of keeping them clean. At least once in every year, they should be taken to a veterinarianian.

Other Important Information

Persian cats are prone to hair shedding and have grooming problems in addition to a high likelihood of runny eyes. Persian cats should be assisted in removing knots from their hair; since this is a time consuming job, a special pet brush should be obtained and used regularly. Although only older cats tend to be incapable of grooming themselves in most cases, some owners insist on their cats being shaved occasionally, especially if the grooming develops into a problem.

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