Cats are amazing family members, but choosing the right breed is important. Most breeds carry desirable traits, like being friendly and cuddly.
But cats can also be prone to genetic disorders, which is why some breeds are banned by the CFA. Luckily, there are plenty of non-purebred cat breeds to choose from that will make your heart melt.
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is one of the most popular feline breeds in the world. It is known for its charming round face and big, expressive eyes.
This cat can come in many different colours and patterns. It is also known for its distinctive whisker pads, giving them a charmingly chubby-cheeked appearance.
Despite their appealing look, British Shorthairs can develop health problems. They are particularly prone to polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which causes multiple cysts in their kidneys to form and slowly destroy their renal function.
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is a curious, energetic cat that loves to explore and follow their humans around the house. They also make excellent companions for households with multiple adults or children.
This slender, medium-sized breed has a wedge-shaped head and large, alert ears. Their almond-shaped eyes are golden, green, hazel or copper depending on the coat color.
Abyssinians have a soft, silky, dense coat that exhibits a “ticked” effect. They come in a variety of colors, including lilac, chocolate, cinnamon, silver, and fawn.
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States today. It has a distinct look, big eyes, and a wavy coat that is extremely soft due to the lack of guard hairs.
A sociable and highly intelligent breed, the Cornish Rex loves to interact with people and is great with children. It also does well with other pets and is a good traveler.
They love to play, climb and leap. They also enjoy being mischievous, and are known as “Velcro kitties.”
Devon Rex
Sporting oversized ears on an elfin face, the Devon Rex is one of the most unique felines around. Its wavy, curly coat is also one of its most appealing characteristics.
These cats are lively and outgoing, and they are happiest in homes with people who can provide them with daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Like all cat breeds, Devon Rexes can be prone to health problems. Some of the most common issues include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation and hereditary myopathy.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a large cat with a distinct physical appearance and valuable hunting skills. It is native to Maine and has been a popular mouser, farm cat, and ship’s cat throughout its history.
These cats can come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid white, cream, black, red or tabby. Their fur is dense and water-resistant.
They are incredibly intelligent and playful cats who retain their kittenish playfulness even into old age. Their patient personalities make them excellent family pets.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest cats, also known as Skogkatt, are one of the oldest breeds in Norway. They have been featured in legends and folk tales for centuries.
They’re also a very intelligent breed, often exhibiting a curious and nurturing personality. They get along well with all members of a household and can be particularly fond of people.
They’re medium to large in size with heavy furnishings and a thick, water-resistant coat. Their paws should be of moderate length, with tufting between each toe.
Tonkinese
Tonkinese cats are a beautiful cross between the Siamese and Burmese breeds. They are very intelligent, active, and curious and love to interact with their humans.
They are also extremely friendly and get along with other pets and kids of all ages. This makes them an excellent choice for families with children or other cats.
They are a healthy cat breed that can live to be over 15 years old. However, they can be prone to conditions like heart and liver disease, gum disease, asthma, hyperesthesia syndrome, and lymphoma.
Burmilla
Burmillas are playful and mischievous cats who enjoy the company of people, but they don’t demand attention in the same way that other felines do. They also get along well with children and other pets, if you can keep them from jumping on them or attacking them.
Burmillas come in a variety of coat colors, including silver, black, blue, chocolate, lilac, red and calico. Their silver-tipped coats shed minimally, and they require weekly brushing to keep them shiny.