Choosing a Cat – A Short List
Don’t get your cat from a pet shop, it may use irresponsible suppliers, only interested in profit and not in the welfare of the animals. Rather get it from a shelter or directly from a breeder if you want a purebred. Expect to be asked questions to demonstrate your suitability as owner.
Purebreds have predictable temperament that can be chosen according to owner’s preferences. But they are of course expensive and can have poorer health.
All things considered, my recommendations are as follows.
Ragdoll
Origin: USA.
Ragdolls are called so because they go limp when picked up.
Large size. Long hair but with low shedding.
Friendly, gentle, cuddly. Low energy (lazy) and quiet.
Long life span.
Can be expensive to buy, but have moderate yearly cost.
Ragdolls should always be kept inside, because they are too docile to defend themselves.
Ragdolls are my recommendation if you want a quiet, low activity cat that you can keep permanently indoors.
Siamese
Origin: Thailand.
Medium size. Short hair.
Loyal, affectionate, active, sleek and athletic, intelligent.
Also vocal, they like to “chat” with househod members.
Siamese are my recommendation if you want an active, vocal cat.
American Shorthair
Origin: USA.
Medium to large size. Short hair. Robust with good health.
Gentle, quiet, intelligent and active.
Birman
Origin: France.
Medium size, long hair with moderate shedding that does not require much grooming.
Very gentle, affectionate. Birmans often behave like a dog.
Possible health issues, otherwise they would be a top recommendation.
Maine Coon
Origin: USA.
Large size. Long hair but does not require much grooming.
Gentle, intelligent, affectionate.
May have only moderate life span and high yearly cost.
Persian
Origin: Iran (Persia).
Persians have been the most popular breed in US for some time.
Medium size. Long hair.
They look beautiful, are affectionate, gentle, quiet and loyal.
But their long hair requires constant maintenance. They are also not as intelligent as other breeds
Can be expensive to buy and keep.
Only get a Persian if you are prepared to undertake daily grooming.
Mixed Breed
If it doesn’t have to be a purebred, you can save much money and get a more robust animal.
I have found from experience that grey tabbies with white snout, throat and paws tend to be particularly good natured.
Cats have such an expressive face, that with a little experience and observation, you can tell a cat’s character from her looks, while the choice is often a matter of…falling in love at first sight.