Kitty Kat Korner - The Persian Cat - July/August 11

by Heddie Leger

The Persian cat is well known and recognized for its long, luxurious fur and distinct, sweet expression created by a flat face and large round eyes. The head is round and large, and the ears small and round at the tip. The body type of the Persian is thick and stocky.  They come in a  variety of colors and patterns, including solid, silver, golden, shaded, smoke, tabby, parti-color, bicolor and Himalayan.
The Persian is recognized by The Cat Fanciers Association, The International Cat Association (TICA) and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA).  This long-haired cat is reportedly discovered  by an Italian traveler in the early 1600s while in the Middle East.  They were eventually brought to Europe, and became popular in England during the 19th century. Queen Victoria owned two blue Persians.  Persian cats came to America in the late 1800s. The breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1914, and quickly became the most popular cat breed in America. The American Persian has a slightly different look among the world’s Persian cats due to U.S. breeders developing their own breed standard for this cat.

Persian cats enjoy spending time with their families and like to sleep curled up on a lap.  They are not demanding for attention, but neither are they very independent, as they do like to be with their families and desire companionship.  If they are to be left alone all day they often prefer another pet for some company.  They need a lot of grooming to prevent hairballs and mats. The owner should be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes a week grooming your Persian.  They are not particularly active, but do like to play with interactive toys as well as with other cats and also dogs that they know well and are comfortable with.

Choose the Right Animal
Chip’s Kitty Kat Korner continues to introduce different cat breeds. But before bringing an animal home, consider what age will work best for you, a kitten or older more mature cat. Kittens, while more entertaining, are very inquisitive and can get into everything. Are you prepared to “kitten-proof” your home? This would include removing or securing valuables, removing plants that are toxic to pets, and closely monitoring your kitten’s living space removing items such as paperclips, safety pins, securing electrical wiring and making sure medications are safely and securely stored in cabinets out of reach. No matter the age, cats are curious and mischievous by nature; removing items that can cause potential problems will help ensure a safe and happy relationship with your cat or kitten.

Join us next month and learn more about Chip’s Kitty-Cat Corner friends