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Persian Cat Breed Introduction
Persian Cat is a medium-to-large-sized long-haired cat breed that has a round face. These cats are known for their short, muscular legs and their strong body, ranging from medium to large size. Persian Cats’ head structure is larger in comparison to other cat breeds. Persian Cats have full cheeks, round-shaped large eyes, and a small mouth with a slight protrusion looking similar to whiskers. These cats have small ears in portion to their head.
Their eye color typically differs depending on their fur colors. The most common eye colors in these cats are brown, grape, and gold. These cats have very long hairs and although they are single-layered, their coat is quite thick. Persian cats’ tails can be longer in comparison to the hair on their bodies. Persian male cats weigh 8 to 12 pounds while females weigh 7 to 10 pounds.
These cats make good family cats as they generally get along with children and other animals residing in the house. These are also known to be excellent around children and enjoy playtime with them – they are just as active and playful already. Besides, Persian cats can sometimes also indulge in rough play without intending to. Parents should monitor interactions between cats and children.
Origin
These cats originated in the early 1500s as per the ancient written records about them. Besides, a few think that the long-haired cats reproduced are ancestors of the Persian cats, showing that the origin of these cats go back even further. Similar as all ancient cat breeds, the pedigree of Persian cats have not been fully assured yet. However there is no agreement on the exact history of the Persian cats, records show that in the 1600s it was first crowned to Europe.
Even in its initial written history, Persian cats continue to be one of the oldest cat breeds that still exist now. It was displayed in the 1800s at the Crystal Palace cat show in England and earned the approval of Queen Victoria. It is thought that Queen Victoria owning three Persian cats in Buckingham Palace played a role in the growing fame and sympathy for Persian cats among the British public.
Persian Cat Lifespan
The lifespan of Persian Cats is 15 to 20 years.
Persian Cat Grooming
Persian cats have long silky coats that need brushing and grooming frequently. The grooming routine stipulates daily brushing to keep mats and tangles from forming and taking a firm hold in the cat’s coat. Before brushing the coat, spritz the Persian cats’ coat with a detangling spray or water conditioner solution to avoid hair breakage.
Use a slicker brush for brushing as it does not pull on the fur harshly. However, some of these cats’ coats can occasionally get greasy, specifically on the base of the tail. If the oil builds up more on their tail, it can cause infection of the hair follicles and hair loss. So if your Persian cats ever do develop an oily tail, you should degrease them as soon as possible.
Persian cats should bathe once every 4-6 weeks unless they roll in something messy. A hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner is also used to bathe them. If your Persian cats is especially terrified of water, a cat bathing bag is recommended. Clean their teeth twice a week using a finger toothbrush and a feline-formulated toothpaste. Trim your Persian Cats’ nails every other week. Using a cotton ball and ear cleanser solution, clean the ears once a week to get rid of excess wax and debris.
Haircuts
They have long hair. However, some owners can do regular trimmings to lower shedding and allergies. They may prefer haircuts such as:
The Teddy Bear Cut – This haircut is achieved when Persian Cats are shaved all over the body down to about 1/2 inch in length and the cat looks like a teddy bear.
The Tiger Cut – This hairstyle is achieved by having the same coat length all over. The name itself demonstrates having a tiger tail, head, and perfect paws.
The Asian Lion Cut – This hairstyle is needed for older cats who cannot support their bodies when peeing. It is achieved when the shaving extends the Persian Cats’ mane to behind its front legs while all the problem areas are shaved.
Grooming Tools
– Slicker brushes.
– FURminator.
– Nail Trimmers.
– Safari Cat Comb.
– Flea Comb.
– Glove Or Mitt Brushes.
– GoPets Dematting Comb.
– Scissors.
– Wet cleaning wipes.
Best Brush
A slicker brush with firmly packed bristles is the best grooming brush for Persian cats. This brush penetrates fur deeply and gets rid of tangles and is devoid of pain. A slicker brush also spreads the natural oils through the coat and makes the fur smooth.
Shedding
Persian cats do shed all year round due to their long-haired coat. However, these cats shed more in spring and summer to remove their winter coat. To lower their shedding, daily brushings are needed for this cat breed.
Coat
These cats have thick and long coats and a soft, dense undercoat.
Triple Coat
These cats don’t have triple coats but they have a long, silky double coat.
Persian Cat Hypoallergenic
Persian cats are not hypoallergenic. They shed all year round and produce more dander which harbors the protein allergen Fel d 1, which brings cat allergies. Persian cats are not suitable pets for people who have severe cat allergies.
Blue Cat Hypoallergenic
Blue Persian cats are not hypoallergenic. They shed more fur, which makes them unsuitable for people with cat allergies.
Training
Persian cats are intelligent cats that are eager to learn new tactics making them highly trainable. However, some may have a stubborn streak and have zero eagerness to please the owner. However, patience, consistency, and the use of positive reinforcement will make training manageable. Persian cats need early training in order to learn acceptable behaviors before getting inclined toward bad habits.
Owners are advised to keep the training sessions short, upbeat, and interesting to prevent them from getting bored and distracted. Every cat training session should be for 5 minutes which are distributed throughout the day to prevent boredom. It is advisable to make use of treats, interactive toys, verbal praise, and petting to inspire positive behaviors. Shouting and yelling scare Persian cats hence they shut down during training sessions.
Socialization is the key to raising well-mannered Persian cats. This training is also good for Persian cats who are a bit wary of strangers. To socialize Persian cats, expose them to a wide variety of places, people, sights, smells, and sounds like doorbells, whistles, sirens, and lawnmowers.
Teach Persian cats basic command words like eat, heel, come, in, out, etc from when they join you home at the age of 8 weeks. Effectively housebreak Persian cats by creating a feeding guide, leash training, and litter training. Leash training helps your cat to walk calmly and obediently.
Persian Cat Personality
– Gentle.
– Patient.
– Reserved.
– Calm.
– Docile.
– Quite.
– Friendly.
– Loyal.
– Relaxed.
– Affectionate.
– Sweet.
– Lovable.
– Intelligent.
Behavior Problems
These cats can become so bonded that when their human owners aren’t around, they quickly become bored, resulting in destructive behaviors like:
– Scratching.
– Paper shredding.
– Chewing.
– Anxiety.
– Urine marking.
– Avoiding the Litter Box.
– Lots of Meowing.
Aggressive
These cats are known for being calm and gentle but they may be aggressive due to fear, stress, or illness. If your Persian cats behave aggressively, startling them can assist in curbing the unwanted behavior. Do not scare Persian cats or use physical contact. Using a whistle or other loud noisemaker may do the trick, as long as they are used right away.
Meow
Persian cats are quiet cats that have a soft, pleasant meow. But illness can make Persian cats feel thirsty, or be in pain hence meow excessively.
Exercise
These cats are moderately energetic. Persian cats enjoy regular playtime using wands or other interactive cat toys. Avoid just leaving toys around for your kitty, though, as it’s good to get up and play together. This helps keep Persian cats stimulated and avoid behavior problems due to boredom. To keep Persian cats mentally stimulated, normalize using a puzzle feeder for their daily meals.
Persian Cat Size
These cats have a height of 10 to 15 inches ( approx. 25 to 38 cm ) and weigh 8 to 12 pounds ( approx. 3.6 to 5.4 kg ).
Height
Mature Persian cats have a height of 10 to 15 inches ( approx. 25 to 38 cm ).
Weight
The Persian cats have a weight of 8 to 12 pounds ( approx. 3.6 to 5.4 kg ).
Average Weight
The average weight of Persian cats is 10 pounds ( 4.5 kg).
Persian Cat Health Issues
If these cats come from a responsible breeder, they are often healthy. Still, there are some genetic predispositions toward health issues to be aware of with Persian cats. Many of these problems spring up later on in these cats’ lives. Persian cats can be at risk of health problems such as:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Progressive retinal atrophy and trichiasis.
- Polycystic kidney disease.
- Respiratory problems.
Hair Loss
Hair loss in Persian Cats can be because of food allergies, environmental allergies, or bacterial infections. Also due to hormonal fluctuation, female Persian Cats can suffer from hair loss. Foods that do not contain enough protein can cause hair loss.
Persian Cat Eye Infection
Persian Cats can suffer from eye infections that can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Conjunctivitis is also an eye infection in these cats. If these cats have an eye infection they may show signs such as pain, itching, redness, and discharge from their eyes. Persian Cats eye infection treatment can be done by use of antibiotic ointments if the infection is due to bacteria.
Eye Discharge
Most Persian cats with eye infections show signs of discharge from their eyes. Discharged caused by allergies should be managed by gently cleaning your Persian cats with a clean pad of cotton wool dampened with a little warm water.
Eye Problems
Persian Cats can suffer from eye problems like conjunctivitis, Corneal ulcer, Uveitis, Cataracts, etc. which cause pain, itching, redness, and discharge. Also, eye infections can be caused by Glaucoma in cats and allergies. Physical injuries, such as scratches can also cause Persian Cats to have eye infections.
Brown Eye Discharge
Cats with bacterial eye infections tend to have rust-brown discharge.
Eye Infection Treatment
Based on the type of cat eye infection, Persian Cats’ eye treatment could be anti-viral or antibacterial. One can use Oral antibiotics, eye drops, and other topical solutions such as lubricants.
Ear Infection
Due to their small outer ears, these cats are more susceptible to ear infections. Persian Cats get ear infections because of pathogens, like yeast and bacteria. Factors that enhance your Persian cat’s risk of ear infection are ear mites, allergies, tumors, and trauma. Physical symptoms that indicate Persian cats have ear infections include:
- Strong odor near the ears.
- Discharge from the ear.
- Black specks inside the ear.
- Redness or swelling around the ear.
- Excessive wax buildup.
- Pawing at the ear.
- Head shaking.
- Loss of appetite.
- Lack of and/or reduced socialization with people and other pets.
Allergies
Persian Cats can be prone to allergies such as:
Flea Allergies – Most Persian Cats can have allergies once infested with fleas hence will scratch and lick the bite area seeking for relief.
Pollen Allergies – Persian Cats can be allergic to tree, grass, and weed pollens which manifest as watery eyes and regular sneezing.
Food Allergies – Some Persian Cats can have allergies to specific ingredients present in most cat foods. Persians with food allergies mostly display gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, gassiness, and diarrhea.
Persian Cat Names
The Persian cats’ parents may decide to get a name for the pet before it leaves the shelter or a few days after the pet joins them at home in order to understand better the personality of the cat. They may get name inspirations from the personality of the cat, coat color, movies, books, songs, and celebrities. Parents should make sure the name chosen does not rhyme with the command words to avoid confusion. Some of the names that parents give to their Persian Cats include:
Female Names
- Adia.
- Belinda.
- Ellery.
- Guinevere.
- Hazel.
- Katniss.
- Marian.
- Minerva.
- Ophelia.
Names For White Cat
- Arctico.
- Fluffy.
- Winter.
- Lightning.
- Ghost.
- Lunar.
- Alaska.
- Boo.
Mating
The best time for mating female Persian cats is when they are 10-12 months old. However, it is good to wait until they are at least 1 to 2 years old before breeding, as this allows time for the cats to fully grow physically and emotionally. Each heat cycle lasts many days with the average length being seven days, but it can range from 1 to 3 weeks. Bloody vaginal discharge that usually lasts between 14 and 21 days indicates that the female cat’s hormone levels are changing, making her ready for fertilization.
Owners are advised to screen the cats before breeding to ensure they have no underlying health problems. In most cases, Persian cats are pregnant for 63 to 67 days, but at times the pregnancy can last up to 72 days. Some of the symptoms that Persian cats may exhibit while on a heat cycle include increased urination, bloody discharge, changes in eating behavior, tail flagging, mood swings, and swollen vulva. Pregnant Persian cats will not show any signs until they are two or three weeks into their term.
Apart from Persian Cats, other cat breeds include:
Litter Size
After conception, Persian Cats have a gestation period of 63 to 65 days before kittening a litter size of 2 to 6 kittens per litter.
Persian Cat Food
The amount of food Persian Cats feed on depends on their age, size, metabolism, body build, and activity level. Persian Cats thrive on either commercial cat food, homemade, or raw food. On overage, the kitten feeds on a lean protein diet which supports the growth of muscles, tendons, and tissue. Kittens should be fed three times a day while full-grown Persian cats eat twice a day.
Also, owners can opt for free feeding, leaving food out for the kittens to eat throughout the day. Although, as these cats grow into adulthood, free-feeding can result in weight gain. Some Persian cats may be prone to getting overweight. Therefore, parents should watch the weight level and calorie intake as well as treats that aid in training. Also, make sure your Persian Cats have access to clean water at all times.
Food Bowl
Always feed Persian Cats in a stainless steel bowl, not anywhere else. Their bowls should be washed after the cat has completed eating to prevent the risk of taint from insects and plant debris.
Food Allergies
Persian cats can be prone to food allergies which makes these cats display gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, gassiness, and diarrhea. Some of the foods that cause allergies to these cats are beef, fish, chicken, and dairy products. Food allergies in Persian cats are managed by avoiding the offending food allergens.
Persian Cat Colors
These cats come in many colors such as golden, tortoiseshell, blue-cream, white, red, cream, black, brown, blue-gray, chocolate, lilac, silver, calico, and seal.
Black
Black Persian cats can mostly change their coat from solid black to reddish-brown.
White Persian Cat
White Persian cats have a pure white coat that shines in the light.
Orange
Orange Persian cats have red or cream fur accompanied by an orange hue.
Grey
Blue Persian cats are often called grey, the color can go from a pale blue-grey to a deep slate grey.
Brown
Brown Persian cats have light tan to deep chocolate brown colors.
Tabby
Tabby Persian cats have hair that is black, brown, and white whorls (all mixed) or stripes even others have dotted mixed hair colors. Their forehead has an M-shaped marking.
Types Of Persian Cat
– Doll Face Persian Cats.
– Chinchilla Persian Cats.
– Peke-Face Persian Cats.
Hair
These cats are long-haired.
Shorthair
Short-haired Persians, aka Exotic Shorthair cats, have all the best characteristics of classic Persians minus the demanding care regimen. The Exotic Shorthairs’ ears are small and set wide which further highlights the size and roundness of their face. Their body is rigid, with short athletic legs, large round paws with crested toes, and a short, bushy tail.
Long Hair
They have long, thick coats with individual length hairs of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm).
Eyes
These cats have large and expressive eyes that may be blue, amber, or a mix of the two colors.
Ears
Their ears are very small and appear round-tipped.
Tail
They have a tail that is short and tossed upward carried at an angle below the back. Mostly, the tail is straight but may form a bit of a curve or none at all.
Teeth
Persian cats that are full-grown contain 30 permanent teeth. However, Persian kittens have 26 milk teeth which start to show up two to four weeks after birth and start falling out at the age of 12 weeks.
Nose
Their nose is short and flattened.
Himalayan Persian Cat
Himalayans are cross-bred between Persian and Siamese cats. The Himalayan cats have long, silk coats which they inherited from Persians, and pointed coloring on the ears, tail, face, and paws inherited from the Siameses.
Cute
These cats are cute due to their chubby cheeks, expressive eyes, and stocky body shape. They are usually quiet and affectionate.
Persian Cat Doll Face
The Doll Face Persian cats also called the Traditional Persian or the Old Fashioned Persian are thought to be the initial Persian cat. Presently, Doll Face Persian cats still look similar to the oldest pictures of Persian cats. Doll Face Persian cats do not exhibit extreme features. Related to the rest of its face, their noses are normal in length.
Different from Peke-Faced Persians, Doll Face Persian cats have an outward-pointing nose. Therefore, these cats can breathe more easily as compared to other Persian cats. Doll Face Persian cats also experience less eye staining and eye drainage problems. These cats also have long flowing coats.
Flat Face
Some Persian cats have flat or squished faces—initially called the peke-face. They didn’t get this unique trait until a genetic mutation happened in some red tabby Persians in the 1950s. When kittens were born with flat muzzles, several Persian breeders liked the appearance.
Persian Cat Price
White Persian cats’ price ranges between $1000 to $3000 depending on the age of the cat and the location of the breeder.
Persian Cat Information
They have large eyes, short noses, and round eyes. These cats shed a lot more than other felines. Persian cats shed moderately throughout the year and in excess in Spring and Fall. As most of these cats tend to have flat faces, there are disparities. Some of them have a more rounded facial shape, which breeders always regard as doll-faced Persians.
They have a short, stocky body shape. Persian cats tend to be a little heavier than average cats, though their bodies stand a bit compact. Their legs have heavy bones that occupy medium- to large-sized bodies. Their shoulders are generally broad, with thick, compact bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Much Is A Persian Cat
The cost of Persian cats ranges from $1000 to $3000 depending on the pedigree of the cat, age, location of the breeder, and how famous the breed is at the time of purchase.
How Long Do Persian Cat Live
On average the life expectancy of these cats is 15 to 20 years old.
Where Are Persian Cats From
These cats are originally from Persia (Iran).
How To Groom A Persian Cat
Persian cats need to be brushed at least once weekly to remove dirt, grease, and dead hair. Also, clean their teeth twice a week using a finger toothbrush and feline-formulated toothpaste. Trim their nails every other week and take a look inside their ears every week to make sure all is well. Also, bathe them using a hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner.
Do Persian Cats Shed A Lot
Yes, they shed more, and the shedding may not be limited to specific seasons.
Do Persian Cats Shed
Yes, being a long-haired breed, they do shed.
When Do Persian Cats Shed
These cats do shed all year round.
How To Make Persian Cat Hair Longer
Feeding Persian cats with a balanced diet and taking good care of them will make their hair grow normally.
What Color Are Persian Cats
Persian cats come in many colors such as red, blue, cream, and chocolate.
Are Persian Cats Hypoallergenic
No, these cats are not hypoallergenic because they shed and produce dander thus not suitable for people with cat allergies.
Are Persian Kittens Hypoallergenic
No, Persian kittens are not hypoallergenic because they shed their long hair.
Do Persian Cats Cause Allergies
Yes, due to their shedding coat, these cats produce dander that can irritate people who are allergic to cats.
How Much Do Persian Cats Weigh
These cats weigh 8 to 12 pounds ( approx. 3.6 to 5.4 kg ).
Do Persian Cats Have Health Problems
Yes, these cats can suffer from any health problems but they are most prone to the common heart disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Are Persian Cats Healthy
Yes, if Persian cats are well-bred they can be healthy. However, Persian cats can have health issues like polycystic kidney disease which is more likely to occur in these cats.
Is Persian Cat Aggressive
No, these cats are recognized for their calm and gentle personalities and also get along well with other non-aggressive pets.
How To Treat Persian Cat Hair Loss
Hair loss in Persian cats can be due to skin parasites, allergic skin disease, pain, medical issues, stress, and more. However, their hair loss can be treated by anti-fungal treatment for hair loss in cats (if they have parasites). Also, plan to lower their cause of stress and have a suitable diet to avoid allergies.
Persian Cat Quick Facts
- These cats need proper grooming to assist prevent tangles, mats, and excessive shedding.
- If Persian cats are left alone for long periods they can get distractive because they are not stimulated.
- Due to their head shape, these cats tend to have narrowed airways that can bring breathing problems from snoring to respiratory distress.
