25 unique cat breeds that you've probably never seen
Sure, no one can resist the grumpy face of a fluffy Persian or the super-cuteness of a fuzzy tabby kitten. But if you’re searching for an extra-special fur baby, there’s a whole world of unusual breeds out there! From the quirky look of a La Perm to the somewhat werewolf-like but irresistible Lykoi, there are many unique cat breeds that are as personable as they are memorable.
If you’re looking to adopt, just remember that bringing home any kitten or cat is a big decision that will impact your (and your cat’s!) life for years. Make sure you have the time to commit because although cats are known for their independent natures, that doesn’t mean they want to be left alone all the time.
Cats actually love interacting with their people and need toys and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. That includes plenty of indoor enrichment activities, including cat toys, cat trees, and all kinds of things your cat needs to keep them busy & out of mischief.
Also, when it comes to choosing a specific breed, remember that every cat is an individual. Even though certain cat breeds generally are known to have similar personality traits, there are no guarantees! Every cat, just like every person, has his or her own disposition.
If you do fall in love with a unique cat breed, do your homework. Talk to breeders & cat fancy clubs to learn whether a specific breed is the right fit for your family. Responsible breeders want to make a good match, so they can be a great place to ask questions about a cat breed.
Also, don’t rule out shelters! There are plenty of places to adopt a cat, & rescue organizations have tons of amazing cats—both pure breed & mixed breed—that may be right for your family.
Read on to learn about these truly unique cat breeds:
 American ShorthairAs an old breed that accompanied European sailors to the New World as early as the 1600s, American Shorthairs are smart, athletic, and fairly quiet. They'll chirp instead of meow when they want your attention. |  Russian BlueRussian Blue cats are independent & don't mind if you're at work all day. But when you are home, you'd better pay them your full attention! This breed is super-smart, athletic, & loyal. |  Norwegian Forest CatNative to the forests of Norway, this cat has a gorgeous coat that benefits from regular grooming. The breed is affectionate but mostly independent: Don't count on this breed to want constant cuddles. |
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 RagdollRagdoll cats get their names because they generally just want to hang out in your lap, as limp as a rag doll. But they make great pets because they're easy-going, friendly, & affectionate. |  Maine CoonMaine Coon Cats are friendly, extroverted, & playful, making them great pets. Besides their solid little bodies (which can weigh up to 20 pounds!), the tiny tufts of fur are one of their most endearing physical traits. |  MunchkinWith very short legs, these cats have long, low-slung bodies. Munchkins are playful, curious, and sociable. |
 SingapuraCurious & intelligent, Singapura cats love their people & would rather climb up on you than be left alone. They're highly intelligent cats, so make sure to give them plenty of mental & physical activity. |  SphinxAs a hairless cat, you certainly can say this is one of the more unique cat breeds! But Sphinx cats have very sweet & loving personalities & will joyfully greet their owners when they return home, which is why they make such wonderful pets. |  BengalAthletic & loyal, Bengal cats have gorgeous, unique markings & quickly become attached to their people. They require daily interaction to stay happy & out of trouble. |
 AbyssinianLean & muscular, the Abyssinian loves to climb & play. Make sure to give this breed plenty of opportunities for mental & physical stimulation to keep it happy and healthy. |  Scottish FoldWith folded ears & an intense expression, this rare breed doesn't look real! Scottish Fold cats are curious, friendly, & independent. |  SiberianNative to the forests of Siberia, this gorgeous cat has three layers of coats for warmth. This breed is intelligent & adventurous & loves climbing & jumping. |
 SavannahSavannah cats resemble wild cats with their stunning spotted coats. They have strong hunting instincts, so they're not great if you have other pets such as fish or hamsters, though they do fine with other cats & dogs. They also like water —a rarity for most cat breeds. |  BalineseFriendly & outgoing, Balinese cats do not like to be alone. They're playful, demanding, & very vocal with their humans. |  Ukrainian LevkoyFriendly & playful, the distinctive appearance of the Ukrainian Levkoy resembles the Sphinx cat. The folded ears give them a unique look, & they're mostly (but not totally) hairless with a fine layer of fuzz over some parts of the body. |
 Khao ManeeAn athletic cat originating in Thailand, the Khao Manee is a personable breed that's devoted to its humans. The jewel-toned eyes may be the same or two different colors. This breed thrives on attention & shouldn't be left alone for long. |  ChinchillaChinchilla cats look similar to Persians but with a face that's less flat. They're calm cats with a serene temperament. Chinchillas come in only in white, but their coats may be tipped with black, silver, or gold. |  American CurlThe fluffy, curled-back ears of this adorable breed make them irresistible! American Curls are friendly cats that quickly become devoted to their people. |
 HighlanderThe Highlander gets along with everyone, including family, strangers, other cats, & even dogs. They're affectionate & happiest when at the center of the action. |  MinuetA cross between a Persian & a Munchkin, the Minuet breed has a sweet face & fluffy coat. They're also super-curious, so be sure to provide this breed with plenty of enrichment activities. |  Russian PeterbaldLively & affectionate, the Russian Peterbald is a charming breed that makes a wonderful pet. They're also very vocal with their owners. |
 LykoiCurious & trainable, this adorable breed is often said to resemble a werewolf with its scruffy coat. Lykoi cats are standoffish to strangers but friendly and warm to family members. |  OcicatResembling wild ocelots, the Ocicat is super-smart. The breed is often described as "dog-like" for its sociable personality. They tend to bond with one person in the household, though they are friendly with everyone. |  La PermLovable, easy-going, & people-oriented, these cats—which look like they have a permanent wave!—typically are real cuddlers. La Perms are a great breed for families with kids. |
 BombayResembling a tiny black panther, Bombay cats are outgoing, playful & friendly. They're a very social cat breed. |
​Reasons Why You Should Groom Your Cat Regularly
The importance of cat grooming​​
Is brushing part of the daily - or at least weekly - grooming routine for you & your cat? If not, you may change your mind after reading this article. Brushing your cat should be a regular part of your routine. It's good for your cat's coat, as well as for her physical & mental well-being. Hey, it's even good for you! Here's why.
6 cat breeds with a reputation for being the meanest (& 6 loving breeds)
Cats make wonderful companions, blending charm & personality in an irresistible way. However, not all cats are cuddly lap-lovers; some breeds have a reputation for a feisty or “mean” streak. This isn’t to say they aren’t lovable—each breed brings its unique energy. So, if you’re hunting for a new feline friend, it’s worth knowing the potential personality traits. Let's dive into six breeds known for their spicy side & six famously affectionate breeds, helping you decide which type of kitty might be the perfect fit for you.