Meet the Persian

Do you have a Persian cat? The Persian is one of the most popular breeds in the world. These adorable, fluffy kitties are very sweet and lovable pets! A veterinarian discusses the Persian below.

History

The Persian has a fairly long and distinguished history. In fact, they’re one of the oldest known breeds of cats. Fluffy has been depicted in hieroglyphics dated as far back as 1684 BC. As one may suspect, these kitties likely originated in Persia, specifically in the area now known as Iran. An Italian traveler named Pietro Della Valle brought them to Europe in the 1500’s.

Temperament

Persians are usually quite calm and laid back. They’re also quite affectionate, and love to cuddle. In one study, the Persian scored higher than non-pedigreed kitties in many categories, including vocalization, cleanliness, and how affectionate they are with their humans. However, they can be finicky about whose laps they grace. Fluffy may bond closely with you, but snub everyone else.

Grooming

One of the Persians’ most distinct features is their long, pretty fur. Fluffy will need some help with her beauty ritual. We recommend brushing your furry little diva daily, or at least every other day. Your kitty will also need the occasional bath. If you adopt a Persian kitten, it’s best to get your little ball of fluff used to being bathed while she’s young. That way, if she ever gets something on her fur that would necessitate a bath, you at least have a chance of getting her clean again without going through World War III.

Coloring

As you may know, Persians are typically quite fluffy. Fluffy’s wardrobe includes coats of many different pretty colors and patterns. Some of these include solid, silver and gold, shaded, smoke, tabby, particolor, bicolor, and Himalayan, or seal point. We think they’re all adorable.

Chatter

Persians are rather talkative, but they aren’t loud so much as chatty. They often reply when spoken to, Their voices are usually quite cute and charismatic, and perhaps a bit squeaky. Of course, like any other cat, Fluffy may sound like a siren if she spots the bottom of her food bowl, or doesn’t like what you put in it.

Activity

Persians are about average on the kitty activity scale. They’re playful as babies, but once past kittenhood, they aren’t usually the frisky furballs that you’ll be plucking from your drapes or disengaging from your leg. Fluffy will do best as a pampered indoor ‘princess’ pet. We don’t recommend letting her go outdoors.

Health Issues

As you may have noticed, Persians are often quite flat-faced, or brachycephalic. Many breeders deliberately seek out that squished-face look. This look is cute, but unfortunately it leaves Persians vulnerable to some serious medical issues, including shortness of breath, tearing, and eye problems. In fact, activists are now pushing for changes in the breed standard. Ask your vet for care tips.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your veterinary clinic in Cavan Monaghan, ON!