Getting To Know Cat Breeds

First brought to Australia on the first fleet, one-third of Australian households now have cats and there’s a large number of types of cats in Australia. Modern domesticated cats as we know them have evolved over time as the result of human intervention and natural adaptation, with mutations, breeding programs, and cultural influences shaping the 73 cat breeds recognised by The International Cat Association (TICA). Unlike dogs, which were bred extensively for specific working purposes, cats were initially valued for their practical skills in controlling rodent populations. Over time, natural emergence in specific regions and selective breeding shaped breeds with dramatic variations in size, coat type, colour, and temperament.

Bred over a longer period than cats, dogs have had genetic changes that have changed their behaviour, appearance, and metabolism compared to their wolf ancestors, whereas cats retain much of their wild genetic makeup, which contributes to their independent nature and remarkable adaptability. Cat breeds come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and personalities, making them suitable for different lifestyles and preferences, but choosing a cat breed involves more than just looks. Depending on your lifestyle, certain cats may be more or less suitable, so you must be informed and prepared when choosing a cat breed and the new pet that you want to welcome into your family.

We'll be exploring the types of cat breeds, categorising them into small, medium, and large sizes, and addressing key considerations when choosing the right cat for you.

Small Cat Breed

Small cat breeds typically weigh less than 5kg and are often favoured for their compact size, making them ideal for pet owners who live in apartments or homes with limited space. The smallest of all cat breeds is the Singapura, weighing just a few kilos. They have large eyes and ears relative to their body size, as well as a distinctive ticked coat pattern. Other small cat breeds include the slender Devon Rex and Cornish Rex which resemble Sphynx cats with short coats, the sleek Oriental breed that is often associated with Siamese breeds, and fluffy Birman cats that have luxurious coats and stunning blue eyes.

Medium Cat Breeds

Most cat breeds tend to be medium-sized, which offers a balance of size and manageability. They are versatile and can adapt well to various living situations. From Abyssinian to Burmese, Balinese-Javanese, Siamese and Tonkinese, medium-sized cat breeds can vary significantly in their coats, features and characteristics. The spotted Egyptian Mau, Scottish Fold, and distinctively hairless Spyhnx cats are all examples of the vast differences between cats of a similar size.

Large Cat Breeds

Over 5kg—and sometimes even over 10kg—large cat breeds require more space than their smaller counterparts, and depending on the type of cat, they may require specific care and are not suitable for small homes. Maine Coon cats are the largest of all domestic breeds but are gentle giants and are very playful and friendly. Norwegian Forest Cats are another large cat breed that is similar to Maine Coons that are big, fluffy, and highly athletic.

Factors Influencing Cat Size

Some types of cat breeds are bigger than others, but other factors can influence the weight and stature of cats. Genetics can play a large role in the size of cats, even within the same breed. In general, male cats are typically larger than females of the same breed, and if they’ve been neutered or spayed, they can become more prone to weight gain. Additionally, the diet and activeness of your cat can play a large role, as they need a specific diet as kittens to fully develop. However, as they get older, overeating can lead to cats becoming overweight.

How To Choose The Right Cat Breed

Choosing a cat breed can be challenging, particularly if you have your heart set on a specific breed, or if you’ve already found a cat and haven’t considered its suitability in the household. When choosing a cat breed, consider their size, energy level and temperament. Small breeds that prefer the indoors may prefer an apartment, whereas larger cats might feel cramped in a small home and need time to explore outdoors as well. Some larger cats can be more passive and laid-back, whereas some small cats can be highly active and energetic, so it’s important to do your research. If it’s not one of the most popular types of cats in Australia, you may need to look into specific breeders and how you can care for them.

Their coats are another consideration as long-haired breeds often require more grooming than short-haired cats, and certain cats are hypoallergenic for people that are allergic to some cats. Finally, consider your household and family dynamics. If you live alone, your considerations will be different to a large family that already has pets in the household. If you have dogs, for example, being able to welcome a cat into your home might be difficult if they aren’t interested at a young age. 

Regardless of what type of cat breed you choose, it’s important to remember that individual cats may not always conform to breed standards, and their personalities can vary even within breeds. When choosing a cat breed, spend time interacting with them to ensure a good match for your household and lifestyle.
At Ripponlea we understand that your pet is like family, which is why we offer the very best care for all types of cat breeds. From general checkups and advice to specialised treatments, our team can help.

Whether your cat is young or old, big or small, schedule an appointment with us to ensure your pet has the best quality of life!