Introduction to Cats

Many people who grow up with cats will have no problem relating to them.

But how about those who have never had any encounter with one?

Let’s get to know cats.

There are many breeds of cats to start with. How many kinds of cat are there? There are more than 100 different kinds, or breeds, of pet cat. Different breeds have different features, such as the fur colour, pattern, thickness, size, body shape or eye colour. Some breeds weigh twice as much as others! The Maine Coon is said to be the largest domestic cat breed. They can weigh from 10-15lb for females and 15-25lb for males. They are also very long and tall!

The overall smallest breed of cat in the world is the Singapura, with most cats of the breed being as much as half the size of the average cat. The Singapura has a petite, delicate body with long ears and big eyes

Based on catster.com, the top ten cat breeds in the U.S. are as varied as their owners:

1. The Persian: This breed has been number one since the CFA first started keeping records in 1871. Persians are affectionate and loyal but need their long fur groomed every day.

2. The Maine Coon: This breed has been in second place since 1992 and it's no wonder. This is a very gentle, loving creature who is large by cat-size. They weigh between 15 and 25 lbs. and have long fur like the Persian. However, they do not need as much grooming as the Persian.

3. The Exotic: This breed is like a Persian but with short fur. Their nickname is "Persian in Pajamas" because of their coloring. They are sweet like a Persian but only need brushing twice a week.

4. The Siamese: The yowl of a Siamese is very familiar to fanciers of this breed. And it's not just for attention - Siamese like to "chat" with their owners. This is a sleek cat who is very athletic. They usually gravitate to one person and are loyal and loving.

5. The Abyssinian: These cats are considered some of the lookers in the cat world. Thin and elegant with a shiny coat, they are active felines, very playful and friendly.

6. The Ragdoll: This breed gets its name from the way these cats go completely limp in your arms when you pick them up. They are cute and cuddly and large like the Maine Coon, weighing between 10 and 20 lbs. (males tend to be larger). This is a breed that should always be kept inside as they are very docile and would likely not defend themselves outside.

7. The Birman: If you want a cat that is dog-like, the Birman is a good choice. He is friendly, outgoing, even-tempered and flexible, a very rare trait to find in a cat. They are known to come when called and to greet you at the door like a pooch would. They have long silky hair that does not require much grooming.

8. The American Shorthair: This breed originally arrived in America on the Mayflower. They were bred for hunting and thus are excellent hunters, have good health and are a quiet cats. They make great family pets and are especially good with children.

9. The Oriental: This breed looks and behaves like a Siamese but comes in two fur lengths and over 300 color combinations. Their personality is similar to the Siamese but they are quieter.

10. The Sphynx: Known as the "Naked Climber" this breed climbs anything and is lively and athletic. They have an unusual appearance, sans fur, and come in a multitude of different skin colors. They are loyal and loving and demand constant attention.

There you go…a short introduction to cats. Before you decide to keep a cat, it is important not to look at just appearance. Personality counts too. Whether you want a cat that's fierce yet beautiful, sneaky and playful, aloof and intelligent, a purebred or an alley cat (aka with a price tag or free), there's a cat for everyone. And everyone should own a cat at least once in their lifetime to understand and experience the complexities and joys of a feline personality.