At Snappy Tom, we love all cats! They each have their own personality, their own look, and even their own “meow.” Then there’s pedigree and breed to consider. According to the Cat Fanciers Association, there are currently 46 unique breeds of cats in the world while The International Cat Association, or TICA recognizes 71 unique breeds. Here are five feline breeds we felt, needed a proper introduction to the cat, and cat lover’s community.
1. Aphrodite – This large cat breed is believed to have originated from the mountainous region of Cyprus some 10,000 years ago. However, Aphrodite, also known as Aphrodite's Giant, was only recognized by TICA in 2017. Thanks to their uniquely long hind limbs, Aphrodite could easily hunt large prey animals. Domesticated adult Aphrodite can weigh up to 24 pounds, have a lifespan of 12-15 years, and are known to be social, relaxed, attention-seeking, and dog-like with their humans.
2. Minskin – On the other end of the spectrum, the Minskin is one of the smallest cat breeds out there weighing only 4-6 pounds at full maturity. This breed, first developed in 1998, was created by breeding a Munchin with a Sphynx, and is said to have been perfected using a Devon Rex and a Burmese cat. It is not yet recognized by TICA but is being observed at this time. Described as the Corgi of the cat world, the Minskin has short legs, sparse hair on the body and a hairless belly. These sweet little cats are known to be friendly, curious, and intelligent in nature and have a lifespan of 12-14 years.
3. LaPerm – This small to medium-sized cute cat gets it’s name from it’s perm-like, curly coat. Recognized in 2003 by TICA, LaPerm will grow to weigh 8-10 pounds and will live anywhere from 10-15 years. If you see a LaPerm kitten, you might not identify it as such since they’re often bald or shorthaired at birth and usually only come into their coat at 2-3 years. Though it may look like it, the LaPerm’s coat is not hypoallergenic. These curly cats are said to be playful, affectionate, and are believed to create a strong bond with their human families.
4. Highlander – With adults weighing up to 20 pounds, the Highlander is another larger-sized breed of cat. The Highlander was developed in 2004 when breeders crossed two existing hybrid cats; the Desert Lynx and the Jungle Curl. The unique traits of this breed include a muscular body, extra toes known as polydactyl paws, and curled ears resembling those of a wild cat. These big cats live anywhere from 10-15 years. Recognized as an Advanced Breed by TICA, the Highlander is playful, gentle, loves to be the center of attention and unlike most other cats, has a love for water.
5. Lykoi – Known as the Werewolf or Wolf Cat because of it’s sparse hair, pointed ears, and long, lean body, the Lykoi was founded in 2011. Lykois possess a hair coat which lacks the ability to produce melanin mixed with solid black hair. The more prominent the white hair in the coat, the more silver the Lykoi will look, adding to it’s werewolf appearance. These unique cats have a lifespan of 12-15 years and have been known to fetch, hunt, and chase prey, similar to a wolf on the hunt. For this reason, they’re not a good match for homes with smaller pets although Lykois can be affectionate, active, and protective of their humans.
Whether you’re looking for one of these unique breeds of cat or would rather stick with a common cat breed such as a Tabby or an American Shorthair, it’s always recommended that you learn about the breed to ensure your lifestyle will be a good match for your new furr-iend, before bringing it into your home.