Cat Breeds in Australia

Bengal cats are available in different colours such as:

• Snow
• Silver
• Brown
• Blue
• Chocolate
• Cinnamon
• Charcoal

They have white tummies that are similar to wild cat and eyes are gold or green, but in some cases, they can be blue.

Bengals can reach up to 5.5 kg in weight.

Origins of Bengal Cat

Bengals are not what you think because they were not named after the Bengal tiger, but the Latin name for Asian Leopard Cat. This is becoming Asian Leopard Cat was the ancestor of Bengal cat. They were crossed by the American breed Jean Mill. The result was to see whether they are strong and healthy as the independent hybrid. They were recognized by ICA (International Cat Association) in 1983 and recognized in 1991.

Temperament

Bengal cats have wild roots, which make them very hard to handle and tame, but in the fact according to some owners, they could be easily tamed. They are not lap cats, but still, they enjoy human company, especially when children are around. In the same time, they are very energetic and love to hunt and play games.

Bengal cats retained the ability to love swimming and taking a bath in the sink because of Asian Leopard Cat’s fishing ability. They are very energetic cats that require lots of time for the occupation of mind and body.

Common Bengal Cat Conditions and Diseases

• Joint Problems– Some Bengals can experience patella luxation, which means that knee joint falls out of place. For this treatment, the only way is to have surgery, but in all cases, the cat will lose some weight and take away the strain of joints.

Interesting Facts

• Female Bengal cats are fertile, but males are not.

They can be sneaky and sly, and love to take sparkly objects

Balinese cats have amazing blue eyes.

The Balinese is strong, but still, very find a cat that contains a lengthy body. You have to groom them frequently in order to keep them in shape and free of frustrating knots. They tend to shed during seasonal changes.

The Balinese can reach up to 5 kg.

Their life expectancy is approximately 12 years.

Origins of Balinese Cat

The traditional Balinese cat contains a similar history as Siamese. Both appeared in different photographs in the middle of the 19th century. However, they first appeared together and people started thinking that they were a mutation of Siamese cat with long fur.

There are numerous theories that their origins are from Western China, or that they are developed by the British that crossed Turkish Angora and Angora. Their long-haired variety became widely recognized and in 1928 was registered in Cat Fanciers’ Federation.

The modern Balinese cat is stronger and smaller than the past breeds that were displayed on photographs. People reported that it is very rare and difficult to find a true Balinese, because many breeds look similar, so you have to conduct research before you decide to purchase them.

Temperament

The Balinese is easy going and friendly cat. They are not highly strung as Siamese and not so vocal, but still, they enjoy the company of humans and don’t like to be alone for long periods. They usually follow the owner from room to room in order to be with him.

The Balinese fits in almost every household, especially those with young children. They are very intelligent so you can enjoy with them.

Common Balinese Cat Diseases

• Lysosomal storage disease– This particular disease is caused by a deficiency of enzymes that cat need in order to perform a metabolic function. A cat that is affected has to be treated by a vet, but you have to know that in most cases it is a fatal disease.

Interesting Facts

• They are not vocal, but still, they enjoy chatting with owners.
• They enjoy the company of strangers.

The Birman can reach up to 40 cm in height and 7 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 16 years.

Origins of Birman Cat

The Birman is one of the oldest cat breeds in history. Their origins are not known, but there are numerous legends that spoke about this amazing cat. In reality, Birman cats were born when Siamese cats were bred with local ones. The first Birman was brought to France and soon afterward they were established all over Europe.

Birman cat Temperament

Birmans are perfect for people who love the Siamese colour pattern but they don’t love their vocal nature. Birmans are quiet, loving and docile cats. They love to follow their owners and to be involved, but they are not bossy at all.

They are curious and intelligent that enjoys exploring the environment, but that can result in some kind of trouble. They have a quiet and soft voice and usually, they will try to alert you that they need attention. They enjoy to cuddle with owners and to relax next to them.

Common Birman Cat Conditions and Diseases

Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – This particular disease is very difficult to diagnose, and it is caused by thickening of heart’s walls. It affects mostly older cats, but it can happen to younger ones too.

• Black
• White
• Cream
• Red
• Golden
• Silver
• Tortoiseshell
• Fawn
• Cinnamon

They can be very large cats that can reach up to 35.5 cm in height and 7 kg in weight.

The life expectancy of British Shorthairs is approximately 20 years.

Origin of British Shorthair

The British Shorthair originated on streets in Britain in the 19th century. Harrison Weir was the main person who was credited with the creation of the breed that we love today. He enjoyed the presence of cats and selected the toughest and strongest ones in order to breed them.

At the end of the 19th century, the popularity of the British Shorthair dropped down and they were almost extinct. However, modern British Shorthairs have Russian Blue and Persian DNA because they were bred with them in order to survive.

British shorthair Temperament

They are widely known as gentle giants, but you have to know that British Shorthairs are a friendly, easy-going and affectionate cat that enjoys family companions. They are loyal and will follow their owners everywhere. However, they are not desperate for attention and very quiet cats.

As kittens, they are energetic and playful, but when they reach the age of 1, they calm down and become couch potatoes. They are suited for being indoor cats because they don’t get in trouble or wander off like other breeds.

Common British Shorthair Conditions and Diseases

• Polycystic Kidney Disease – This particular condition can start at a very young age. It causes cysts of fluid in kidneys and obstructs them from functioning normally. That can cause chronic renal failure in case you haven’t detected it in early stages. You should look for symptoms such as vomiting, poor appetite, frequent urination, drinking, depression, and lethargy.

Interesting Facts

• The cat from Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland is based on the British Shorthair.
• British Shorthair appears on Whiskas as the mascot.

They come in different colours such as:

• Champagne
• Sable
• Blue
• Platinum

They have large eyes that can be amber and yellow.

Burmese cats can reach up to 5.5 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years.

Origins of Burmese Cat

The Burmese Cat appeared first in Burma, even though; their real origins are now known. There was mention of them in Thai Cat Book that was written during the Middle Ages. The modern specimen was developed by Dr. Joseph Thompson in the 20th century, and he imported a female cat in San Francisco. They were developed in Britain but they died out until they experienced a revival in the middle of 20th century.

Temperament

Burmese Cats are similar to Siamese ancestors, and they are very social and intelligent cats, that enjoy being less talkative. At the same time, they are playful cats that love being next to their family. Similar to dogs, they love to be involved in almost every aspect of family life – which means that they will try to follow the owner while you cook a meal, do chores and watch television.

They are not as shy as other cats, which mean that they will try to show their affection to strangers without any difficulties. However, they don’t like to be left alone for a long time.

Common Burmese Cat Conditions and Diseases

• Or facial Pain Syndrome – When Burmese Cat is stressed, she can feel pain in the face and lick frequently in order to reduce the discomfort. The main cause is presently unknown, but there are medications that could help her reduce the pain and discomfort.

Conditions:

• Burmese are called as a brick wrapped in silk, because of delicate but stocky form.
• There is a big difference between male and female Burmese Cats.

Chinchilla Cat has blue or green eyes that are rimmed with black and that looks similar to black eyeliner next to white fur. The nose is not extreme like Persian, but the coat is long with pure white undercoat. The fur is tipped with gold and silver. They are widely known in the United States as the Silver Persian.

They require lots of grooming because they are heavy shedders, which means that you should brush them regularly on a daily basis in order to keep their coat beautiful and without a mat. If you want to bath them, you have to introduce them to water from a young age.

The Chinchilla can reach weight up to 5.5 kg.

Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years.

Origins of Chinchilla

The Chinchilla is considered as one of the oldest breeds in history and people developed her in order to find a way to combine Persian cat and pale coat. The development was achieved after many years of selective breeding. There are numerous reports that this particular breeding was developed from a female cat that was named Chinnie.

Temperament

Chinchillas have gentle nature and they are very quiet which makes them perfect pets for all variety of people. However, they don’t tolerate small children, but they can form a close relationship with human owners and become attracted to them.

The main thing that they love to do is to lie all over the house and to look beautiful. They enjoy the company, so in case you want to go for a few days, the best thing that you can do is to find them a friend. They love to live inside a calm family home.

Common Chinchilla Conditions and Diseases

• Furballs – This particular condition happens when cats digest fur that gathers in the stomach after grooming, and they vomit cigar shaped clumps. Furballs can happen when the cat is losing more hair then she should due to obesity, skin irritation or stress. You just have to add a healthy diet and visit a vet in order to get professional advice.

Interesting Facts

• They won’t use the litter tray if it is dirty.
• Chinchilla starred in James Bond film “Diamonds are Forever”.

The Devon Rex is a small cat that can reach up to 4 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 13 years.

Origins of Devon Rex

The Devon Rex appeared at first in Devon in 1960, as the result of mating Straight-Coated Calico Cat and Curly-Coated Stray Tomcat. As a result, one kitten had a curly coat. This kitten is the first Devon Rex, and all modern ones are traced to her.

Temperament

The Devon Rex is a very intelligent cat breed that is widely known for its active and playful personality. Some people describe her as a monkey in a catsuit. They adore jumping, so it is always better to hide your valuables and breakable stuff off the reach.

Unlike other cat breeds, the Devon Rex is trainable and you can easily teach her how to play fetch, walk on a leash and learn other tricks such as jump and sit – similar as a dog.

The Devon Rex is also a very affectionate cat breed because they love to play with their owners and to sleep on their shoulders. They are very sociable and happy to follow their family wherever they go throughout a day.

Common Devon Rex Conditions and Diseases

• Hip dysplasia – This particular condition affects thigh bones that won’t fit in the hip joint. It can easily cause lameness and pain, and at the very end arthritis, however, some cats may not show those symptoms. You can easily treat symptoms through medication, weight loss, diet and in serious cases surgery. Don’t forget to get Pet Insurance for your Devon Rex because that is the only way you can be assured that injuries will be treated without you paying an enormous amount of money.

Interesting Facts

• The Devon Rex requires low-maintenance which means that you don’t have to bathe her and brush frequently.
• The Devon Rex is capable of recognizing the name of her owner.

• Silver and Gold
• Solid Colours
• Shaded and smoke
• Particolored
• Tabby
• Bicolored
• Himalayan

The most common colouring is Himalayan and it includes a mixture of different colours such as lilac, chocolate, seal and blue.

Even though they have less hair than Persian, you will still need to groom them a lot in order to keep them in shape. They usually shed when the weather becomes warmer.

The Exotic Shorthair can reach up to 5.5 kg in weight

Their life expectancy is approximately 14 years.

Origins of Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair was bred by using Burmese and Persians in order to develop a cat with a short coat. Other specimens were bred through using American and British shorthair cats. The only recognition and similarity to other breed are with Persian.

During ‘60s breeders combined American Shorthaired cats and Persian in order to develop Exotic Shorthair.

Temperament

The Exotic Shorthair is a very gentle and friendly cat that has an amazing personality that is similar to Persian. They enjoy having fun, without minding the company of other dogs and cats, and enjoy to curl and to sleep in a safe place. However, they can vary from strangers and people they don’t know.

In the same time, they don’t like to be left alone, so think of a solution to find someone to get them a company. These cats are feline breed and athletic they enjoy a game, but they are not vocal cats which are perfect for all kinds of family, even for little children.

Common Exotic Shorthair Conditions and Diseases

• Breathing issues – The Exotic Shorthair can have a complication in snout and airway, and as the main result, it could lead to noisy breathing and shortness of breath. You should immediately visit your vet when you hear and see that something is wrong with your cat.

Interesting Facts

• People love to call Exotic Shorthair as the Lazy Persian.
• Exotic is considered s one of the most popular cats in the world.

Similar to Persian, the Himalayan has two facial variations:

1. Doll-faced
2. Peke-faced (similar as Pekingese dog)

The Himalayan can reach up to 30 cm in height and 5 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years.

Origins of Himalayan

This particular cat breed was created by Virginia Cobb and Dr. Clyde Keeler in ‘30s by cross-breeding Siamese and a Persian cat. The first one was a result of a fourth generation of crossbreeding. In the same time, they named this breed based on its coat that resembles goats and rabbits that live in the Himalayas.

During the ‘80s, people wanted to add strength to Himalayan, and soon afterward this breed was considered as a Persian-sub breed. However, ICA (International Cat Association) recognized the Himalayan as a separate breed.

Temperament

The Himalayas are perfect indoor pets because they have good characteristics of Persian and Siamese. They have great activity levels that are similar to their ancestors that make them equally happy if you leave them to relax, which means that they are perfect family pets.

The Himalayas are very affectionate and loyal cats that require lots of playing time and attention. They are very intelligent, sweet, social, and in some cases even talkative.

Common Himalayan Conditions and Diseases

• Ringworm – This is a kind of dermatophytosis and one of the most common fungal skin diseases that can affect cats. This particular Para side invades outer layers of the skin order to include fur and claws. Long-haired cats can easily get ringworm than those with shorter hair. However, this condition can be easily passed to a human. 

Interesting Facts

• The most famous celebrity that owns Himalayan cats is Martha Stewart.
• The most famous internet celebrity is Luna the Fashion Kitty, a Himalayan cat.

The Maine Coon comes in various colours such as

• White
• Tabby
• Tortoiseshell
• Smoke
• White Patches

Eyes can range between copper, gold, and green, but however, blue is not uncommon.

The Maine Coon can reach up to 100 cm long and 8 kg.

The life expectancy is approximately 13 years.

Origins of Maine Coon

The Maine Coon originates from America in the 18th century, and some people state that they appeared even earlier. There are some legends that state that their ancestors were cats that were crossed with raccoons, however, that is not the option. Other people believe that she was sent by Maria Antoinette in order to protect them from the French Revolution.

The reality speaks that Maine Coon came to America from Europe or Asia as a result of breeding domestic cats by Pilgrims.

Temperament

Maine Coons are known for being affectionate, friendly and goofy – not because of their huge size, but huge personality too. They are similar to dogs and love to be around family and to act as a pack animal.

They are very obedient and they will come when called. They adore greeting guests, who will be amazed at their sociable nature. If you want to protect your cat, cover your Maine Coons with PetCare, and you can rest assured.

Common Maine Coon Conditions and Diseases

• Spinal muscular atrophy – This particular condition is inherited and causes skeletal muscles to die and that leads other muscles to atrophy and die too. Cats that are affected will show symptoms when they are young. Even though, there is no treatment, with medication and care they can live nine years without any additional problem. If you want to protect your cat, cover your Maine Coon with PetCare and you will rest assured.

Interesting Facts

• They are also known as Gentle Giants
• The Maine Coon has a high-pitched voice

They are a small breed that can reach up to 20 cm in height and 4 kg in weight.

Their lifespan is 14 years.

Origins of Munchkin

The Munchkin breed came from a genetic mutation that caused distinctively short legs. There were many different short-legged cats throughout history, but that wasn’t common until the ’80s, when Blackberry, a short-legged cat was crossed with domestic cats, and that lead to Munchkin cat breed.

She was introduced in 1991 and she was very controversial, where many critics through that leg and hip problems can also occur in a new breed of cat. However, this was not a case because they were officially recognized by ICA (International Cat Association) in 2003.

Temperament

Even though they are so small, Munchkins have a great personality and will have a kitten like personality through years into adulthood. They are outgoing, playful and very simple to train. You must have in mind that they are a loving and sociable cat that easily makes family pets and they are also getting well with other pets and children.

Munchkins can easily jump and run like any breed of cat, so you don’t have to think that size is something that matters.

Common Munchkin Conditions and Diseases

Munchkins are a healthy breed that is not prone to any serious diseases and conditions. However, since they are a young breed, this can easily change in the future. Similar to other cats, you don’t have to overfeed them and you should ensure that they get enough exercise through their life because obesity can reduce their mobility. Get PetCare for your Munchkin and protect her from any damage that could happen.

Interesting Facts

• They were named after the cat from The Wizard of Oz called Munchkins
• Some people refer to them as kangaroo cats because they sit up in order to get a better view.

They have long coats that could come in all colours and all the patterns that you can think of.

Persians can reach up to 38 cm in height and 8 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years

Origins of Persian Cat

The Persian Cat is the oldest cat breed in the world today. Their early history is unknown, but many people agree that she came from Persia and Turkey. Pietro Della Valle, an Italian explorer, was the one who introduced Persian to Europe in the early 17th century, and after two centuries this particular breed had established herself as one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe.

Temperament

Persian Cats are known for quiet, gentle and docile nature. They are sweet cats, that discriminates their affection, but at the same time, they provide attention only to people they trust.

They are quiet cats that enjoy quiet environments, and that is the reason why they are not suitable for noisy households. They are perfect companions for elderly people and singles. They don’t have an issue when the owner decides to leave them alone for a while.

Common Persian Conditions and Diseases

Breathing Issues – Peek-faced Persian can develop problems with breathing because of compacted snout and airway and that will easily result in noisy breathing and shortness of breath. If you are afraid of injuries that could happen, cover your Persian with PetCare, and you can rest assured.

Interesting Facts

• Garfield is Exotic Shorthaired Persian
• Persians have starred roles in numerous films such as Stuart Little, Cats & Dogs, and Austin Powers.

They have wide and large eyes with blue colour. Their coat is long and silky and lies smoothly. They are one of the largest car breeds with well-developed cheeks, muscular body, and medium-sized ears.

Ragdolls can reach up to 9 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years old.

Origins of Ragdoll

The Ragdoll was bred in 1960 after a legendary tail. Angora type of cat that was named Josephine was hit by a car, and she was taken to vet in order to get better. After various governments testing, experts determined that Josephine stopped feeling any pain and was quite relaxed because of that. The next line of kittens inherited the same temperament that Josephine had after the accident.

That is how Ragdoll breed was developed and they were registered in 1966.

Temperament

Even though the story goes that Josephine didn’t feel any pain that is not true. However, Ragdoll cats are extremely relaxed, placid and laid back and they have high-tolerance for pain. They were named that way because of a tendency to go limp because of their relaxed nature.

In the same time, they enjoy the company of humans and they will never go away from them, but they are indoor cats and they should be allowed outside only on a leash.

Common Ragdoll Conditions and Diseases

• Dilated and restricted cardiomyopathy – This particular disease is caused by the dilation of heart muscles. They are restricted through cardiomyopathy and causes weakened elasticity of heart muscles. When it is diagnosed, it should be treated as soon as possible.

Interesting Facts

• Taylor Swift and Paris Hilton own Ragdoll cat
• Unlike other cats, the Ragdoll doesn’t like to be alone in the house.

This particular cat breed is not a result of cross-breeding. The Russian Blue cat is medium sized and athletic looking cat with velvet-like fur. They don’t shed a lot, which is far more convenient for households.

The Russian Blue cat can reach up to 7 kg in weight.

The average life expectancy is approximately 18 years.

Origins of Russian Blue Cat

There are numerous theories on how Russian Blue Cat was found. There is one theory that tells us that breed was developed in Northern Russia when sailors from Europe traveled there in the 19th century. Others believe that they are descendants of cats that were owned by Russian Czars.

They were widely known as Archangel Cat. She appeared in England in 1876 and during World War II, cat nearly got wiped out. After the war, Scandinavia and Russia started developing the breed.

Temperament

The Russian Blue is a very intelligent breed that enjoys living with the family. They love to learn how to play games with you such as fetch, which makes them perfect companions and great pets. These cats are very happy to spend time alone also, and they enjoy amusing themselves. They will follow you from room to room because they enjoy human company. But around strangers, they can be a little nervous.

Common Russian Blue Cat Conditions and Diseases

• Weight-related problems – The Russian Blue enjoys eating her food which means that she can continue eating without any problem. However, you should create a healthy diet and limit the amount of wood in order to combat potential obesity. Cover your Russian Blue Cat with PetCare and rest assured for the future.

Interesting Facts

• They were originally called the Archangel cat
• Russian Blue Cats are not very vocal.

Even though there are some types of long-haired, there are also short-haired, and they are more common. They have a double coat and that is the reason why you should brush them regularly in order to keep them in the top shape. You have to groom them once a while and clip their nails occasionally.

Scottish Folds can reach up to 6 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 14 years.

Origins of Scottish Fold Cat

This is a new breed of cat that was developed in the ’60s. There are numerous reports that stated that the first cat of Scottish Fold was born in the area of Scotland. The unusual ears have not seen before and that is the reason why people decided to adopt them.

Mary Ross started breeding program and they have originally registered the breed but afterward, they ceased the registration because of breeding abnormalities such as deafness.

Temperament

The Scottish Fold is an ultimate relaxed cat that enjoys being in family and household. They get well with children and animals and at the same time, they are inquisitive and bold. There were some reports that state that cat used their paws in order to start playing fetching or sneaking food.

Common Scottish Fold Breed Conditions and Diseases

• Polycystic kidney disease – This particular disease is inherited and you will be able to determine symptoms from the very young age. It causes cysts in the kidney that obstruct them from functioning. That can cause chronic failure in case that is not detected. You just have to watch for symptoms such as frequent urination, depression, and vomiting and you will be able to treat it. Get PetCare for your Scottish Fold and rest assured.

Interesting Facts

• The Scottish Fold is not very verbal
• The male Scottish Fold named Maru became one of the most popular cats in the world with 200 million views.

They have very large eyes and a long body with long lean legs and a long neck.

Siamese Cat can reach up to 31 cm in height and 6 kg in weight.

Their life expectancy is approximately 20 years.

Origins of Siamese Cats

Siamese Cats are widely recognized and date back to the 14th century from Thailand. They belonged to the royal family and often given as gifts. In the end of 19th century, General Edward Blencowe brought two Siamese cats to Britain as a gift for sister.

Those cats produced only three kittens that died young and they had to import more cats. That is how to breed were stables.

Temperament

Siamese cats are very talkative, intelligent and sociable. They have a loud and deep voice and enjoy talking and chatting with their owners. They are often described as similar to dogs because of their fondness for playing games such as fetch and affection that is completely different than other cats.

Siamese cats are sporty and smart and they need lots of toys in order to keep their physical and mental health occupied. You should never leave her without giving her something to play with, or she will find a different way to occupy your house.

They adore being in the center of attention because they love their family.

Common Siamese Conditions and Diseases

• Vestibular disease – This particular disease affects the inner ear and it could lead to dizziness and balance especially in the cat. It is a minor issue that could be resolved in a few weeks, but you have to find a way how to manage your cat efficiently.

Interesting Facts

• The most famous owners of Siamese cats were Syd Barret and John Lennon
• Most kittens are born white and as they grow they develop colouring.