Is your felin e pal a Persian? If so, it’s probably safe to say you have a super cute pet! Persians are one of the most popular breeds in the world. These adorable kitties really are very sweet and lovable. A vet discusses the Persian below.

T  emperament

Persians are typically quite relaxed and laid back. They’re also very affectionate, and love to snuggle. In one study, Fluffy scored higher than non-pedigreed kitties in many categories, including cleanliness, chattiness, and how affectionate they are. However, they can be a bit picky about whose laps they grace. Fluffy may bond closely with you, but ignore everyone else.

Grooming

One of the Persians’ most distinct features is their pretty fur. Persians are longhaired, and they are very, very cute. Fluffy will need some help with her beauty routine. We recommend brushing her daily, or at least every other day. Your kitty will also need the occasional bath. If you adopt a kitten, it’s a good idea to get your little ball of purr used to being bathed while she’s young. You’ll thank yourself later.

History

The Persian’s history is long and impressive … just like their fur. In fact, they are one of the oldest breeds of cats. Fluffy has been charming people for a very long time, it seems: she has been depicted in hieroglyphics dated as far back as 1684 BC. As one may suspect, these kitties likely originated in Persia, in what is now known as Iran. An Italian traveler named Pietro Della Valle brought them over to Europe in the 1500’s.

Coloring

These cute felines sport a variety of pretty colors and patterns. Some of these include solid, silver and gold, shaded, smoke, tabby, particolor, bicolor, and Himalayan. We think they’re all adorable.

Chatter

Persians can be rather talkative, but they aren’t too loud. Their voices are usually quite cute and charismatic, and perhaps a bit squeaky. Many of them like to ‘chat’ with their humans.

Activity

Persians are about average on the kitty activity scale. They’re playful as babies, but calm down pretty quickly once they get past kittenhood. These aren’t usually the frisky furballs that you’ll be plucking from your drapes or disengaging from your ankle. Fluffy really does best as a pampered indoor ‘princess’ pet. We don’t recommend letting her go outdoors.

Health Issues

As you may have noticed, Persians are often quite flat-faced. Many breeders deliberately seek out that squished-face look. This may look cute, but unfortunately it leaves Persians vulnerable to some serious health issues, including shortness of breath, tearing, and eye problems. In fact, activists are now pushing for changes in the breed standard. Ask your vet for care tips.

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