The Persian cat is a long-haired beauty with a gentle nature and striking appearance. In this article, you'll learn all about its history, personality, and care needs.
The Persian cat
The Persian cat is a long-haired beauty with a gentle nature and striking appearance. One of the most popular cat breeds, its calm and affectionate personality makes it an ideal addition to any family.
Thinking about getting a Persian cat? In this article, we’ll tell you more about the breed’s history, temperament, and looks.
History of the Persian cat
The name “Persian” might suggest the breed comes from the Middle East — specifically Iran. However, scientific research has shown that their true origins lie in Russia.
In the early 20th century, a breeding association for Persian cats was established. That’s when the name “Persian” became common; before that, they were known as Angora cats — a name used for all long-haired breeds. Their popularity skyrocketed, leading to large-scale breeding, which unfortunately brought health problems for these beautiful animals.
Personality of the Persian cat
Persians are calm, indoor cats that love attention and cuddles. They enjoy sitting on laps and have a balanced temperament. But don’t forget — they’re still predators at heart.
They need opportunities to play and explore. A scratching post is a must-have. Like many quiet cats, Persians love to observe their surroundings — don’t be surprised if they perch somewhere high. Another plus: they rarely meow, and when they do, it’s soft.
Appearance of the Persian cat
Persian cats are known for their luxurious coats. They have long fur with a thick undercoat and a compact body with short legs. Tufts of fur grow between their toes.
Their head is round and broad, with rounded ears and a short nose. But this nose is a controversial feature. Overbreeding has led to extreme flat faces, which can cause breathing problems. That’s why reputable breeders now prefer Persians with slightly longer noses — health comes first.
Coat colors of the Persian cat
Persians come in many colors — solid, bicolor, and tricolor. Common colors include black, white, red, and blue, as well as brown, lilac, and cream.
A popular variant is “Smoke,” where the hair is colored on the surface but silver-white near the roots. A stunning look. There’s also “Shaded,” where only the tips of the hairs are colored and the rest is silver-white.
Nutrition and health of the Persian cat
The Persian is sometimes nicknamed the “torment breed.” This stems from overbreeding, especially focusing on shorter noses, which caused skull deformities. Tear duct issues are common, leading to watery eyes.
Thankfully, this has improved due to stricter laws and responsible breeders. Although some issues still exist, like blindness and a kidney disease called PRA, the breed is now healthier than in the past.
Thinking of buying a Persian cat? What’s the price?
If you're still excited about getting a Persian cat — we understand! Expect to pay between €800 and €1500. The price depends on pedigree, bloodline, and parent history. Shelters may have Persians for much less, but they’re not directly comparable.
It’s important to buy from a certified breeder who focuses on health and socialization. All vet visits should be tracked, and genetic testing is key. Don’t hesitate to ask for the breeder’s documentation.
