Cats are popular pets worldwide, but not all breeds are the same. Some shed less, others are particularly affectionate, or have unusual behaviors. In this article, you will learn everything about different cat breeds – from popular and rare breeds to special characteristics like cuddliness or similarities to dogs.
1. Cat Breeds of the World – An Overview
There are over 70 recognized cat breeds worldwide, each with its own unique characteristics. The most well-known breeds include:
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Maine Coon – One of the largest breeds with a friendly disposition
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Siamese – Slim, intelligent, and talkative
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Bengal cat – Wildcat look with a lot of energy
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British Shorthair – Calm and cozy velvet paws
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Ragdoll – Special cuddle cats with a gentle character
2. Cat breeds that do not shed
Allergy sufferers or people looking for a low-maintenance cat often prefer breeds that shed little or not at all. These include:
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Sphynx-Katze – Hairless, warmth-loving, and affectionate
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Devon Rex – Short, curly coat with minimal shedding
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Cornish Rex – Similar to Devon Rex, with fine, wavy fur
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Oriental Shorthair – Smooth, easy-care coat with minimal shedding
3. What cat breeds are there in Austria?
In Austria, both classic domestic cats and breed cats are popular. Particularly common are:
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European Shorthair – The typical house cat in many colors
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Norwegian Forest Cat – Robust long-haired cat with a strong character
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Maine Coon – Especially due to their size and social nature widespread
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Bengal cat – Popular for their wild appearance and playful nature
4. Cat breeds that stay small
"Not everyone wants a large cat – some breeds remain rather small throughout their lives:"
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Singapore – The smallest cat breed in the world
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Munchkin – Short-legged cats with a lively nature
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Devon Rex – Slim and delicate with a unique curly coat
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Balineseization – Graceful, small cat with long fur
5. Cat breeds that love to cuddle
Some cats are particularly cuddly and enjoy being close to their humans:
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Ragdoll – Are often referred to as "dog cats" because they relax when being lifted.
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The First Class – Calm, cuddly, and people-oriented
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Scottish Fold – Playful and affectionate with typical floppy ears
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Sphynx-Katze – Despite a hairless body, extremely cuddly.
6. Cat breeds that behave like dogs
Some cats exhibit particularly dog-like behavior and are easily trainable:
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Maine Coon – Affectionate and eager to retrieve
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Bengal cat – Intelligent, playful and eager to learn
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Abyssinian – Active, curious, and often "dog-like" in behavior
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Savannah cat – High intelligence and strong attachment to the owner
7. Which cat breeds are considered to be the result of suffering breeding?
Unfortunately, there are also cat breeds that suffer from genetic problems that have arisen from selective breeding:
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Scottish Fold – The folded ears are due to a genetic defect that can cause painful bone problems.
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Persian cat (extreme breeding form) – Short noses often lead to breathing problems.
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Munchkin – The short legs are a mutation that can bring health limitations.
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Sphynx-Katze – The absence of fur makes them particularly sensitive to cold.
