Persian cats are a very popular breeds of cat in the UK. People fall in love with them because they are so docile and easy going. There is some dispute at to the origin of the breed although many feel that the Sand Cat may be somewhere in its antecedents.
History of the Persian cat breed
There seems to be a general acceptance that it hails from Persia. Persians are an old, well known breed that make great pets if you are looking for a laid back companion. Persians generally live between 10 and 15 years.
A thoroughbred Persian is the perfect pet, but there are one or two minor cons to owning one, the pros are overwhelming. Owners use words like docile, gentle, affectionate and loving to describe their pet. It is no wonder that the Persian is one of the most popular of domestic cats.
A great choice for a family
They must be one of the best choices for the family with children. The Persian has a general inclination to interact with people and this includes play. Its tolerance level is high but if things begin to get a little too much for it, rather than react it will normally just go somewhere else.
Health Problems
They do have one particular health problem, the rather nasty sounding polycystic kidney disease. This is a genetic disorder that is impossible to cure and can only be managed, mainly by diet. The rather flat face can give rise to problems with eyes and nostrils. In general though, the breed is very healthy.
Temperament
Persians are quite easy going cats that don't demand a huge amount of attention, although they do enjoy it from the right person. You have to earn their trust and they can sometimes favour certain members of the family. They are not particularly boisterous cats and tend to enjoy sleeping and relaxing. However, Persians do occasionally like to play with toys and don't mind the company of other pets. They really enjoy being around humans and have a very sweet personality.
Exercise
If you get a Persian you can expect them to regularly curl up on your lap. One particular particular feature of most Persians that many owners find fits in with their lifestyle is that it is not one of the more active of cats. They seem to prefer to stay close to their families so making them perfect for life in flats. They are one of the least likely cats to roam.
Coat & Appearance
Their most notable feature is, of course, their beautiful long coat. It comes in a multitude of colours, many quite dramatic and distinctive: golds, silvers, light, dark and a whole mix of reds. If you want a low maintenance cat then don't get a Persian. They need a lot of to keep their long dense coat under control. If their coat is not groomed properly it will matt and become uncomfortable for them and they could develop skin conditions. Ideally they need to be groomed on a daily basis. Their long coat means they can be prone to heat sensitivity.
In summary
So before becoming entranced by its beautifully expressive eyes, ensure you have enough time and patience to look after a Persian in the manner it deserves. Persians have a strong, stocky body with big round heads and flat faces. They have slightly shorter muzzles than most cats and thick dense coats. Persians are medium sized cats that weigh between 7 to 12 pounds. They have small ears with rounded tips.
The Persian is so much more than a beautiful animal to have around the house. Its temperament is enough to convert anyone immune from its stunning appearance. If you do opt for one, you will not be disappointed.