A calm and composed feline, the Persian is recognized for relishing a sunlit perch and exhibiting unexpected episodes of playful, kitten-like vigour.
APPEARANCE
Size: Medium – Large
Weight: 3.6 – 5.4+ kg
Coat Length: Long
Coat Colour: White, Red, Cream, Black, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Silver, Golden, Cameo, Tortoiseshell, Blue-cream, Brown, Calico, Seal, Solid Color, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor, Tricolor/Calico, Tabby, Smoke, Shaded, Points
Eye Colour: Blue, Copper, Green, Hazel, Odd-eyed
Grooming: High
Longevity: 8 – 11 years
Attention Needs: Moderate
RECOGNITION: ACF, ANCATS, CCCA
History of the Breed
The Persian is an ancient breed with a somewhat obscured background. Longhaired cats were present in Italy during the 1500s, imported from Asia. In the 17th century, a cat from Persia was brought to Italy by Pietro della Valle, likely a breed known in Persia as the Sand Cat, adapted to desert life with a woolly coat. Around a century later, Nicolas de Pereisc acquired longhaired cats from Turkey, which were later bred with Italian cats in the 19th century, giving rise to the modern Persian. Despite its ancient origins, the Persian is a man-made breed. The breed gained popularity when Queen Victoria and other royals embraced it.
Appearance
Typically of medium size, the Persian boasts a massive and heavily boned build, creating an illusion of size due to its abundant fur.
An extreme-looking breed, the Persian features a short yet thick body, sturdy legs, and a compact neck. The tail is short, and the ears are small. The head is round, complemented by large, round eyes. In profile, the face appears flat, and the nose takes a directional turn, showcasing primarily the colored flesh.
The Persian’s coat is characterized by thickness, fullness, and length. It is fine in texture but should exhibit a lustrous and glossy appearance.
Personality
The Persian is a placid feline that demonstrates occasional bursts of kitten-like activity. Whether peacefully sleeping in the sun or suddenly exploding into lively runs and rolls, the cat can be unpredictable. It enjoys stretching out beside you, sleeping in your bed, and sitting on your lap when in the mood. Adaptable to changes in routine, the Persian is generally friendly towards everyone.
Living With Persian
Living with a Persian requires controlling its nutrition to maintain optimal condition. Given the breed’s tendency for less energetic exercise, careful attention must be paid to both nutrition and regular exercise. Daily exercise is crucial to keeping the Persian in top condition, and while it may engage in play with interactive toys, chase balls, and attack catnip mice, encouragement may be needed to ensure daily physical activity.
The Persian’s luxurious coat demands daily attention, necessitating brushing and combing to prevent tangling. Additionally, the flat face must be regularly and meticulously cleaned to prevent the deposition of tear stains.
