Cats are one of the most common and popular pets in the world, with the majority being moggies or mixed breeds. Breeds like the Ragdolls and the Maine Coons are seen in homes all over the world. But, there are many rare breeds that you might not even know exist. These are 12 of the rarest cat breeds in the world.
1. American Wirehair
The American Wirehair is a unique domestic cat breed from upstate New York. It is known for its wiry fur and crinkly whiskers caused by a genetic mutation. These cats are affectionate, easygoing, and playful. While their popularity has grown across the United States, they are rarely seen in other parts of the world.
2. Burmilla
The Burmilla is a domestic cat breed from the United Kingdom. Known for its shiny silver coat, it is a cross between the Chinchilla Persian and Burmese cats. By the mid-1990s, it had made its way to the United States. Despite growing interest in the breed, it remains exceptionally rare. The Burmilla is gentle, affectionate, and intelligent.
3. Chartreux
The Chartreux cat is a rare breed from France and is renowned for its hunting skills and gentle, quiet demeanor. Often called the “smiling cat” due to its rounded features, the Chartreux disappeared from the French countryside after World War II. While dedicated breeders have worked hard to preserve this breed, they remain uncommon.
4. Cornish Rex
While the Devon Rex has become a popular breed in the States, the same cannot be said for the Cornish Rex. The Cornish Rex has no hair except for down hair, resulting in the curly coat they are known for. These cats are playful, adventurous, and social. Owners must find fun and engaging ways to keep them entertained, or they can get bored.
5. Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau, a small to medium-sized cat, stands out as one of the few naturally spotted breeds of domesticated cats. It’s known for being active, playful, and affectionate. The Egyptian Mau is a relatively rare breed worldwide, with fewer than 200 kittens registered with the GCCF [Governing Council of the Cat Fancy] yearly.
6. Korat
Originating from Thailand, the Korat is an exceptionally rare and cherished breed. It’s seen as a symbol of good luck in its homeland, and its scarcity makes it a true treasure to find. The Korat is characterized by its silver-blue coat and large eyes. It is an intelligent, playful, and loyal breed.
7. Kurilian Bobtail
The Kurilian Bobtail, a natural breed from Russia’s Kuril Islands, is known for its slow development, taking up to five years to fully mature. Under the right circumstances, it can live up to 20 years! It has a distinctive stubby tail and is rarely seen outside of Russia. It is intelligent, inquisitive, and friendly.
8. LaPerm
The LaPerm cat is a unique breed originating from the United States and is hard to find in other parts of the world. It’s known for its distinctive coat, which appears crimped or loosely permed. This breed is on the smaller side and is said to be very affectionate, playful, and vocal!
9. Minskin
The Minskin was developed in Boston and is a cross-breed between Munchkin and Burmese cat breeds. It is hard to find outside of the U.S. and struggles with posture and mobility issues. It has the Munchkin cat’s short legs and the Sphynx’s hairlessness. These cats are friendly and social.
10. Norwegian Forest Cat
Although the Norwegian Forest cat is one of the better-known cats on the list, it is still very hard to find. This breed has thick fur suited for cold climates and needs to be brushed and groomed regularly. It is friendly and adaptable and requires a lot of attention and care.
11. Peterbald
The Peterbald is a hairless cat breed created in St. Petersburg in 1994. It can be completely hairless or have a thin layer of fuzz on its skin. The Peterbald is a cross between a Don Sphynx and an Oriental Shorthair. Known for having big ears, this cat is intelligent and athletic.
12. Sokoke Cat
The Sokoke cat is believed to be the rarest cat breed in the world. It is a feral breed from the coast of Kenya and only became recognized as a breed in 2015. It requires a lot of exercise and prefers to spend most of its time outside. These cats are playful and intelligent, requiring a lot of attention from their owners.
Source:
14 Rarest Cat Breeds in the World (With Info & Pictures)
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