Did you know that there are over 300 different cat breeds in the world? Surely you’ve heard of some: for example, the Persian and the Maine Coon. They are the two most popular cat breeds in the United States, but what else is there in the world of cats? Well, let me introduce you to 12 rare, but stunningly beautiful cat breeds from around the world.
If you are a big cat admirer, then it’s likely that you already know these breeds, but most of you probably have never heard of the following rare cat breeds:
1. Chartreux
Origin: France
The Chartreux is an intelligent, quiet and friendly cat breed. They are most famous for the fact that they often appear to be smiling. Of course, they are not actually smiling, it just appears as if they are due to the shape of their heads and tapered muzzles. Chartreux cats are also known to love a game of fetch.
2. Cornish Rex
Origin: United Kingdom
Cornish Rex cats have very short hair, so they do not shed a lot and like warm places. These cats are sometimes called Greyhounds of cats, and that not only because of the similarities in looks, but also because Greyhounds and Cornish Rex cats share the same galloping running style.
3. Egyptian Mau
Origin: Egypt
What makes Egyptian Mau cat breed special is that they are one of the few domestic cat breeds with a naturally spotted fur. Perhaps because of their origin, they dislike cold places even more than most other cat breeds.
4. Korat
Origin: Thailand
The trademarks of this breed are large green eyes and a heart-shaped head.
5. Kurilian Bobtail
Origin: Russia
In the wild, Kurilian Bobtails are reported to be skilled hunters and fishers. And they may look a little wild too, but they still can make intelligent and gentle domestic cats.
6. Manx
Origin: Isle of man
Some Manx cats have a small stub for a tail, but the breed is best known for being totally tailless. They too are excellent hunters, which has made Manx the preferred cat breed for ships and farmers who have problems with rodents.
7. Nebelung
Origin: United States
A rare, but highly intelligent cat breed. Nebelung cats form strong relationships with their owners, but keep a distance with strangers.
8. Peterbald
Origin: Russia
Peterbald cats can be born bald or with hair. However, because of a hair-losing gene, the ones who are born with hair, are still likely to lose the hair in time. Other than that, Peterbald cats are affectionate and smart felines who get along well with other pets and family members.
9. Siberian
Origin: Russia
The Siberian, also known as the Siberian Forest Cat, is a powerfully built cat with strong hindquarters. Although, the breed is proven to be somewhat hypoallergenic, it’s a relatively rare breed in the Western Hemisphere.
10. Singapura
Origin: Singapore
Singapura may be one of the smallest cat breeds in the world, but Singapura cats do have large eyes and ears.
11. Snowshoe cat
Origin: United States
Snowshoe cats have blue eyes and white feet. They are social and intelligent cats who don’t like to be left alone; perhaps because of that, they often learn how to open doors.
12. Serengeti
Origin: United States
Serengeti is a rare cat breed that was created by crossing a Bengal and an Oriental Shorthair. The most distinctive characteristics of this breed is the yellow or gold coat with a pattern of black spots, which makes them look a little like the wild cats of Serengeti. Sometimes, though, Serengetis are born with a solid black coat.
Own one of these rare cat breeds? If yes, then please do use the comment section below to share some details with us.
Please be sure to spell the cat breed Maine Coon, with the e on the end of Maine, as they originated in the state of Maine. Thank you.
Hi. I recently found out I own a Serengeti. At the time I became the owner of this cat, I was informed that it was part Persian. However, quite quickly I began to notice characteristics beyond the visible distinctiveness that made me wonder. Now, 9 months later, I have experienced such cat shock with this cat. I was recently thinking about trading it in and adopting a less vocal and better behaved cat, until something told me to have the matter looked into. I began researching the behavioral traits and appearances I observed. There were several cats that appeared including a cat that looked exactly like my cat. I began reading about the Serengeti and realized, I was the owner of one. My cat meows incessantly. The meows are long drawn out, very loquacious with varying sounds. Additionally, his coat is beautiful. The markings are amazingly brushed stroked across his mane and he has this golden fluff of hair that sticks out on his chest. The undertones of his mane are covered in this golden yellowish hair with the artistically dark brush strokes over top. This cat is fiery in spirit. During feeding time or when he is hungry he is very vocal. Often he braces himself as if he is going to attack. As a kitten, he would jump on any one and dangle from them while they were either preparing his food or their own food. His appetite is particular. From the beginning I fed him fish or RAW food, such as Chicken,, Buffalo, and Tuna. This has remained his diet. His diet is consistently protein and I provide him with water. When I attempted to alter his diet or feed him non-meat he would not eat the food. This cat is very stubborn and very needy. He craves attention and is extremely talkative. He is not as bad as a Siamese cat because he does not meow unless you are present and unless he is hungry. He loves to be cuddled and held, and pet and brushed and will follow you around. Discipline is difficult. Spray water bottles do not really phase him. He is very observant, smart and stubborn. He recognizes the bottle and will turn around and hurry away but will immediately return once your back is turned. He also talks back if you are scolding him. This is the perfect cat for someone who is lonely and who needs someone to talk to. The cat is high maintenance and quite particular.