Meet the Persian

Is your kitty a Persian? If so, you have an adorable pet! Persians are one of the most popular breeds in the world, and with good reason. They’re not only super cute, they’re also very sweet and lovable. A local veterinarian discusses the Persian below.

History

The Persian has been charming the socks off of us for quite a while. These kitties have a fairly long and distinguished history. In fact, the Persian is one of the oldest known cat breeds. Fluffy has been depicted in hieroglyphics going back as far as 1684 BC. As their name suggests, these kitties likely originated in Persia, probably in the area we now know as Iran. An Italian traveler named Pietro Della Valle brought them over to Europe in the 1500’s.

Temperament

Persians tend to be quite relaxed and laid back. They are also usually very affectionate, and can be quite the little cuddlebugs. In one purrticular study, the Persian scored higher than non-pedigreed kitties in several categories, including vocalization, cleanliness, and how affectionate they are. However, Fluffy can be choosy about whose laps she graces. Your kitty may bond closely with you, but ignore everyone else.

Grooming

One of the Persians’ most distinct features are their pretty coats. Fluffy will need some help taking care of all that fur. We recommend brushing your feline pal 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, you’ll be able to bathe her without getting sliced to ribbons. 

Coloring

Persians are typically quite fluffy. These kitties sport a variety of pretty colors and patterns, including solid, silver and gold, shaded, smoke, tabby, particolor, bicolor, and Himalayan. We think they’re all adorable!

Chatter

Persians are rather vocal, but they aren’t very loud. Their voices are usually quite cute and charismatic, and perhaps a bit squeaky. They can also be quite interactive and chatty with their humans.

Activity

Persians are about average on the kitty friskiness scale. They’re playful as kittens, but once they’ve grown out of that zoomy stage, they settle quickly. Fluffy really does best as a pampered indoor ‘princess’ pet. We don’t recommend letting these cats go outdoors.

Health Issues

As you may have noticed, many Persians are quite flat-faced. This is because some breeders deliberately seek out that squished-face look. Unfortunately, that unique look leaves Persians vulnerable to some very serious health issues, including shortness of breath, tearing, and eye problems. In fact, activists are now pushing for changes in the breed standard. That doesn’t mean Fluffy can’t live a full, happy life: she may just need some extra TLC. Ask your vet for care tips.

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