Persian Cat
Updated August 11, 2025
Persian Cat
Updated August 11, 2025
The Persian cat is a long-haired breed of domestic cat characterized by its round face and shortened muzzle.
Extremely gentle and sweet-natured, Quiet and reserved but affectionate, Prefers routine and calm environments, Dignified and somewhat discriminating in relationships, Content with low-key activities
7-14 pounds
12-17 years
At a Glance
Maintenance Level
Friendliness
Energy Level
Good with Kids
Vocalization Level
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About Persian Cat
The Persian cat is a long-haired breed of domestic cat characterized by its round face and shortened muzzle.
Coat Length
Long Hair
Breed Group
Longhair
Popularity
#2 Most Popular
Weight
7-14 pounds
Great For
What Makes Persian Cats Special
Persian cats are the aristocrats of the cat world, embodying elegance and tranquility in every graceful movement. With their luxurious long coats and sweet, gentle expressions, they're living works of art that bring serenity to any home.
These magnificent felines are the perfect companions for those who appreciate quiet beauty and gentle affection. They're content to be admired and cherished, making them ideal lap cats for peaceful households.
Persian Cat History & Origin
The Persian is one of the oldest and most recognized cat breeds. Hieroglyphic references to their existence date back to 1684 B.C. They were brought to Europe from Persia in the 17th century and quickly became a symbol of royalty and nobility.
The breed's signature long coat was likely the result of a natural mutation.
Modern show-style Persians with the extremely flat face (peke-faced) were developed in the United States in the 1950s.
The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognized the Persian as one of its first registered breeds.
Persian Cat Characteristics
Individual Variation
Cats are individuals and not all cats, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Personality Traits
Social Life
Good with Kids
Good with Other Cats
Good with Other Pets
Adaptability
Adaptability Level
Persian Cat Appearance
Persian cats are instantly recognizable with their round, sweet faces and flowing coats that seem to float as they move. Their large, expressive eyes convey intelligence and gentle curiosity about their surroundings.
The Persian's compact, cobby body is perfectly proportioned beneath their magnificent coat, giving them an almost regal bearing that has captivated cat lovers for centuries.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, round-tipped, tilted forward, and set far apart and low on the head, fitting into the rounded contour of the head.
Eyes
Large, round, full, and set far apart giving a sweet expression to the face. Eye color should be brilliant and related to coat color.
Nose
Short, snub, and broad with a well-defined 'break' centered between the eyes. The leather should be level with the bottom of the eyes.
Coat & Build
Tail
Short but in proportion to body length, carried without a curve and at an angle lower than the back.
Persian Cat Temperament
Persian cats are the aristocrats of the cat world, embodying elegance and tranquility in every graceful movement. With their luxurious long coats and sweet, gentle expressions, they're living works of art that bring serenity to any home.
These magnificent felines are the perfect companions for those who appreciate quiet beauty and gentle affection. They're content to be admired and cherished, making them ideal lap cats for peaceful households.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Persians are generally healthy but can be prone to a number of genetic health issues due to their distinct facial structure and long coat. They have a life expectancy of 12-17 years.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, genetic screening for PKD, daily grooming, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for their health.
Caring for Your Persian Cat
Grooming Requirements
Overview
The Persian's long, luxurious coat is their most defining feature but requires significant grooming. They are not efficient self-groomers.
Brushing
Daily combing and brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles.
Bathing
Regular bathing (e.g., monthly) is recommended to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy.
Eye Care
Daily wiping of the eyes is necessary to prevent tear staining and infections, a common issue due to their facial structure.
Nail Care
Every 2-3 weeks.
Essential Grooming Tools
Exercise & Play
Exercise Overview
Persians have low exercise needs. They are a placid breed content with a relaxed lifestyle.
Daily Requirements
Short bursts of play (15-20 minutes) per day are sufficient.
Mental Stimulation
Puzzle feeders and gentle interactive play to keep their minds engaged without over-exertion.
Recommended Activities
Nutrition & Feeding
Nutrition Overview
A high-quality, balanced diet is essential. Due to their sedentary nature, they can be prone to obesity.
Daily Amount
Approximately 1/2 to 2/3 cup of high-quality dry food, or an equivalent amount of wet food, divided into two meals.
Special Considerations
Monitor food intake to prevent weight gain. Wet food is beneficial for hydration. Some Persians may require specialized food that is easier to pick up with their flat faces.
Living Environment
Space Requirements
They do well in apartments and houses alike; they do not require large spaces.
Climate Preferences
Prefers a climate-controlled indoor environment. Sensitive to high heat and humidity.
Ideal Lifestyle Match
Best suited for quiet households with individuals or families who can provide consistent companionship and grooming.
Colors & Patterns
Persian cats come in an extensive variety of colors and patterns, making them one of the most diverse breeds in terms of coat color.
Solid Colors
Patterns
Eye Colors
Eye color corresponds to coat color - copper, blue, green, hazel, or odd-eyed in some patterns
Fun Facts About Persian Cat
Persian cats are one of the oldest known breeds, with references dating back to 1684 B.C.
Their luxurious coat requires up to 30 minutes of daily grooming to maintain properly.
Persian cats are known as 'furniture with fur' due to their calm, stationary nature.
The extreme flat-faced 'peke-face' variety was developed in the 1950s in the United States.
Persian cats can live up to 17 years with proper care and regular veterinary attention.
They are one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide and consistently rank in the top 5.
Persian cats prefer routine and can become stressed by sudden changes in their environment.
Their eye shape and facial structure require daily cleaning to prevent tear staining and infections.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Kitten Care
Early socialization with grooming, establish routines, proper nutrition for growth
Senior Care
Regular health monitoring, adjusted diet, continued gentle grooming
First-Time Owner Tips
Good choice for dedicated owners willing to commit to daily grooming