1. Domestic shorthair cats
Origin: Mixed (mainly from Europe and North America)
There are British Shorthairs, several European Shorthairs, and American Shorthairs. Overall, domestic shorthair cats are by far the most popular cat breed in the world. They do not have a specific origin, but have undergone many changes over time. However, genetically speaking, most shorthair cats are derived from European and/or North American ancestors.
Domestic shorthair cats are known and valued for their low maintenance costs and very independent pets. They also belong to the most intelligent cats in the world.
2. Muppets
Origin: United States
The Ragdoll was bred by famous American cat breeder Ann Baker in the 60s of the 20th century and has since quickly become one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. It is genetically most related to the Persian and Berman breeds. Ragdolls are also among the largest domestic cats in the world. Adult female Ragdolls can weigh up to 15 pounds (7 kg), and male Ragdolls can even weigh around 20 pounds (9 kg).
Ragdolls are very docile and affectionate towards humans, which is a big reason for their popularity. Unlike more independent domestic breeds such as shorthairs, Ragdolls are less likely to be alone and are known to follow their owners. Ragdolls are also known for their sweet and musically charged voices. Unfortunately, they also belong to the shortest-lived breed of domestic cats, rarely living longer than 12 to 15 years.
3. Maine
Origin: United States
There are many legends about the origin of the Maine. Some early theories falsely claim that the Maine was the product of a cross between a cat and a raccoon (hence the name). In fact, the Maine most likely originated from a cross between a domestic shorthair and a long-haired angora. The breed was first introduced and became popular in the US state of Maine (hence the name). In the 20th century, Maine grew in popularity throughout North America and beyond. Today, the breed is the second most popular in North America and the third most popular in the world.
The Maine is also the largest breed of domestic cat in the world. Adults can be up to 48 inches (120 cm) long and 16 inches (41 cm) tall. Maine are known as gentle pets, and unlike many other cats, they interact very harmoniously with their children. For this reason, the breed is often referred to as the "dog of cats".
4. Devon Rex
Origin: United Kingdom
Devon Rex is a popular cat breed known for its unique appearance and playful personality. The breed originated in Devon, England at the end of the 50s of the 20th century as a result of the natural mutation of feral cats. Devon Rex cats are small to medium-sized cats with relatively large ears and eye-catching eyes that make them look somewhat wary and playful. They have a light body and relatively long legs and large toes, allowing them to perform long jumps and high jumps.
From a personality point of view, Devon Rex is considered to be a very playful and active cat, constantly climbing, jumping, and exploring its surroundings as much as possible. That's why Devonshire overlord cats are often referred to as the "monkey of cats". They thrive in homes with plenty of vertical space to explore. They also enjoy playing with toys and interacting with their owners.
5. Exotic shorthair cats
Origin: United States
Exotic shorthair cats are the fifth most popular cat breed in the world. The breed originated in the United States in the 50s of the 20th century, when breeders began to cross Persian cats with American shorthair cats to create a new type of cat with short, dense fur and a round, flat face. Nowadays, exotic shorthair cats are considered a unique breed. One of the most notable characteristics of an exotic shorthair cat is its short, plush fur, which comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, and bicolor. People often compare their round, flat faces to teddy bears, and the large, expressive eyes are another hallmark of the breed.
In addition to their physical characteristics, exotic shorthair cats are also known for their friendly, affectionate personalities. They are often described as "lap cats" and most enjoy curling up next to their owners and snuggling together, which makes them especially popular among children.
6. Persian cat
Origin: Iran
The Persian cat is one of the oldest domestic cats still in existence today and is the basis for many other cat breeds. The Persian cat originated in what is now Iran and became popular at intercontinental levels as early as the 17th century when Italian traders introduced the breed to Europe. The Persian cat has a long coat, which is a rare feature in the offspring of the African wildcat, which is the common ancestor of all domestic cats.
Their luxurious-looking fur requires frequent maintenance. However other than that, Persian cats are considered to be very pleasant, easy-going, and very calm pets. This explains their centuries-old popularity around the world.
7. Abyssinian cat
Origin: Ethiopia
The Abyssinian cat originated in what is now the East African country of Ethiopia (also historically known as Abyssinia, hence the name). It is believed that English sailors brought cats to Europe in the mid-19th century. The Abyssinian cat soon became popular all over Europe and eventually the whole world. As a shorthair, the Abyssinian does not require much care.
In terms of personality, Abyssinian cats are considered to be very outgoing, playful, and active cats. They don't like to be locked in a tiny house and prefer to spend their days outdoors. Another characteristic of the Abyssinian cat is that the level of intelligence is much higher than the average of the cat.
8. Scottish Fold Cat
Origin: United Kingdom
The Scottish Fold is a unique and fascinating cat breed that is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners around the world. Originating in Scotland in the 60s of the 20th century, this breed is known for its unique folded ears, which makes it look cute. Scottish Fold cats are medium- to large-sized cats with rounded bodies, short legs, and a variety of colors and patterns.
One of the most notable traits of Scottish Fold cats is their gentle, calm, and affectionate nature. They are very attached to their owners and family members and also have above-average intelligence in cats.
9. Sphynx cats
Origin: Canada
The Sphynx cat is a unique breed of feline that originated in Canada through natural genetic mutations and began to breed systematically in the 60s of the 20th century. It is known for its hairless appearance. Breeders were intrigued by this unusual appearance and began to breed hairless cats, creating a breed known as the Sphynx cat.
Sphynx cats are known to be outgoing, very affectionate and playful. Due to the lack of fur, Sphynx cats may be more tolerable for owners with cat hair allergies (even if the allergy is not directly caused by the hair). But due to their lack of hair, they are also more susceptible to skin damage caused by sun exposure and freezing in cold weather, which is why they are best suited indoors.
10. Siberian cat
Origin: Russia
The Siberian cat completes the list of the top 10 most popular cat breeds in the world. Siberian cats originated in Siberia and have been present in the wild forests of Siberia for centuries, and then increasingly in many Russian households. Since the 80s of the 20th century, Siberian cats have been increasingly bred outside Russia and are gaining popularity in Europe, North America and other parts of the world. Siberian cats are known for their thick, fluffy fur, which is ideal for cold weather conditions.
Siberian cats are also known for their dog-like traits, which include their playful and affectionate nature. They tend to be very sociable and very loyal to their owners, often following them around the house. Siberian cats are also one of the most intelligent cats, with a curious and exploratory nature. They are also very vocalized cats and are capable of producing a variety of sounds.