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We all know that cats have long been beloved pets in homes across the United States.
Cats are one of the most popular pets in the country for a reason: they have distinct personalities, striking appearances, and require little maintenance.
While every cat is unique, several kinds have won Americans’ hearts more than others.
According to Statista, there were a total of approximately 95.6 million cats living in households in the United States in 2017.
In this post, we’ll look at the 10 most popular cat breeds in the United States, highlighting their traits, temperaments, origins, and what makes them so appealing.
Let’s get started!
1. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is commonly known as the “gentle giant” of the cat world.
This breed, one of the oldest in North America and also one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States, is distinguished by its huge stature, tufted ears, and bushy tail. Maine
Origin: United States (particularly Maine)
Maine Coons are thought to have originated in the state of Maine, where they are the official state cat.
While its exact origins are debatable, one popular hypothesis holds that it is descended from longhaired cats brought over by European sailors and interbred with local shorthaired cats.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Large (may weigh 18 pounds or more).
- Coat: long, thick, water-resistant.
- Personality: affectionate, playful, and loyal.
2. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are known for their stunning blue eyes and silky, semi-longhair coats. True to their name, they go limp when picked up, making them extremely affectionate and relaxing.
Origin: United States (California)
Ann Baker, of Riverside, California, invented the Ragdoll breed in the 60s. She intentionally bred a white longhaired cat named Josephine with other cats to develop the Ragdoll’s unique characteristics, such as its gentle disposition and luxurious coat.
Key characteristics:
- Size: medium to large.
- Coat: soft, silky, semi-long.
- Personality: calm, affectionate, and people-oriented.
Ragdolls are recognized for their gentle and friendly demeanor, and they frequently accompany their owners around the house like a faithful pet. They thrive on human interaction and are great for families or people looking
for a friendly and low-energy companion.
3. Persian
The Persian cat embodies elegance and grace. Persian cats are well-known for their long, silky coats and beautiful, flat features.
They are recognized for their relaxed and kind nature, enjoying a peaceful and quiet environment. While their lovely coats necessitate regular care, their kind and peaceful temperament makes them popular among cat lovers.
You can also read about essential tips for keeping your cat happy here
Origin: Persia (modern-day Iran)
Persian cats have been in Europe since the 1600s, when they were introduced from Persia (now Iran).
They were later refined in England and the United States, resulting in the present Persian breed we know.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Medium to large.
- Coat: long, thick, and luxurious.
- Personality: quiet, affectionate, and easygoing.
4. Siamese
Siamese cats are one of the most vocal and gregarious breeds, distinguished by their piercing blue almond-shaped eyes and smooth, short coats.
They are extremely bright and curious, frequently creating great ties with their owners.
Siamese cats are playful and energetic, making them ideal companions for people who appreciate having engaging pets. Their unique “meow” and outgoing demeanor make them difficult to ignore.
Origin: Thailand (formerly Siam)
The Siamese cat is one of the oldest and most well-known breeds, having originated in Thailand (previously Siam).
They were introduced to the Western globe in the late nineteenth century and rapidly became popular due to their distinctive appearance and personality.
Key characteristics:
- Size: medium.
- Coat: short, fine, shiny.
- Personality: Talkative, Social, and Playful
5. Bengal
The Bengal cat is known for its wild appearance, which resembles a small leopard.
Bengals, distinguished by their beautiful spotted or marbled coats, are active, athletic, and very clever.
They enjoy climbing, exploring, and playing, making them an ideal choice for active households. Despite their wild appearance, Bengal cats are friendly and appreciate being a part of the family.
Origin: United States
The Bengal breed originated in the 1970s when domestic cats were crossed with the Asian leopard cat, a small wild feline.
Breeder Jean Mill is credited with developing the Bengal, which combines the wild appearance of a leopard with the disposition of a domestic cat.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Medium to large.
- Coat: Short, silky, speckled, or marbled
- Personality: energetic, curious, and affectionate.
6. Sphynx
The Sphynx is undoubtedly the most distinctive-looking cat breed, with its hairless appearance and wrinkled skin.
Despite their lack of fur, Sphynx cats are extraordinarily warm and enjoy cuddling with their owners.
They are extremely gregarious, playful, and thrive on attention. Their unusual appearance and outgoing behavior have made them popular among those looking for a one-of-a-kind companion.
Origin: Canada
The Sphynx breed began in the 1960s in Toronto, Canada, when a hairless kitten named Prune was born as a result of a spontaneous genetic abnormality.
Breeders eventually improved the breed by crossing Prune’s offspring with other cats, resulting in the modern Sphynx.
Key characteristics:
- Size: medium.
- Coat: hairless (may have tiny peach fuzz).
- Personality: affectionate, playful, attention-seeking.
7. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a powerful and muscular breed, distinguished by its round face, dense coat, and placid disposition.
This breed, sometimes known as the “teddy bear” of cats, is placid and independent, making it ideal for busy households.
British Shorthairs are affectionate but not demanding, preferring to rest and examine their environment.
Origin: United Kingdom
The British Shorthair is one of the oldest English cat breeds, with origins extending back to the Roman Empire.
They were formerly working cats, valued for their ability to capture rodents. The current British Shorthair was developed in the nineteenth century through selective breeding.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Medium to large.
- Coat: short, dense, and fluffy.
- Personality: calm, affectionate, and independent.
8. Abyssinian
The Abyssinian, or “Aby,” is a sleek and athletic breed distinguished by its ticking coat and huge, expressive ears.
Abyssinians are highly active, curious, and enjoy exploring their surroundings.
They are gregarious cats who enjoy socializing with their owners and are frequently described as behaving similarly to dogs. Their playful and adventurous temperament makes them popular among cat enthusiasts.
Origin: Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia)
Despite its name, the Abyssinian’s true origins are unknown. Some say it originated in Ethiopia (previously Abyssinia), while others think it developed in Southeast Asia or Egypt. The breed was first introduced to Europe in the late 1800s.
Key characteristics:
- Size: medium.
- Coat: short, thick, and silky.
- Personality: energetic, curious, and affectionate.
9. Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is easily identified by its distinctive folded ears, which resemble owls. This breed is noted for its pleasant and gentle demeanor, which often results in deep ties with its family.
Scottish Folds are versatile and do well with youngsters and other pets. Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them a popular choice for families of all sizes.
Origin: Scotland
Susie, a cat with naturally folded ears, was discovered on a farm in Scotland in the 1960s, giving rise to the Scottish Fold. Breeders further improved the breed by crossing Susie’s offspring with British Shorthairs and other cats.
Key characteristics:
- Size: medium.
- Coat might be short or long, depending on the variety.
- Personality: Sweet, gentle, and loyal.
10. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a classic breed noted for its versatility and low maintenance requirements.
With their strong frames and sociable dispositions, these cats make excellent companions for both families and individuals.
They are both independent and affectionate, making them easy to care for. Their flexibility and longevity have made them an American home staple for decades.
Origin: United States
The American Shorthair can be traced back to the early immigrants of North America, who took cats onboard ships to reduce rodent populations. Over time, these cats developed into the tough and versatile breed we know today.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Medium to large.
- The coat is short, dense, and easy to maintain.
- Personality: easygoing, affectionate, and independent.
Conclusion
Cats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and personalities, and the most popular breeds in the United States represent the different interests of cat owners.
Whether you choose the regal Maine Coon, the beautiful Persian, or the lively Bengal, there is a breed to fit every lifestyle.
When selecting a cat, consider not just its appearance but also its temperament, care requirements, and fascinating history. A cat’s affection and friendship will undoubtedly bring joy to your home, regardless of the breed you choose.
Let us know which breed you liked more and the one you actually have in the comment below.
