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PetMall Encyclopedia

Cat Breed Encyclopedia

Browse published cats breed profiles curated by the PetMall editorial desk.

68 breeds available

Abyssinian gallery cover

Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is a highly intelligent, active, and curious athlete. Known as the 'clowns of the cat world,' they love vertical space and being in the centre of family action. They are perfect for active Kiwi households that enjoy interactive pets.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
14 - 15 years
Temperament
Active, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Gentle
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Aegean gallery cover

Aegean

A rare, natural breed from Greece, Aegeans are sturdy, social, and adaptable. They are famous for their love of water and their balanced, communicative nature.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
9 - 12 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Social, Intelligent, Playful, Active
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American Bobtail gallery cover

American Bobtail

With a wild look and a loyal 'dog-like' personality, the American Bobtail is a highly adaptable companion that often enjoys walking on a harness.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
11 - 15 years
Temperament
Intelligent, Interactive, Lively, Playful, Sensitive
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American Curl gallery cover

American Curl

Famous for their unique backward-curling ears, the American Curl is an affectionate, 'Peter Pan' breed that stays kitten-like well into adulthood.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Curious, Intelligent, Interactive, Lively, Playful, Social
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American Shorthair gallery cover

American Shorthair

A versatile, sturdy, and easy-going companion. American Shorthairs are quiet, gentle cats that adapt well to various Kiwi living situations and are known for their longevity.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
15 - 17 years
Temperament
Active, Curious, Easy Going, Playful, Calm
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American Wirehair gallery cover

American Wirehair

Characterised by their unique crimped coat, American Wirehairs are affectionate, gentle, and quiet companions that enjoy human company without being demanding.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
14 - 18 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Curious, Gentle, Intelligent, Interactive, Lively, Loyal, Playful, Sensible, Social
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Arabian Mau gallery cover

Arabian Mau

A natural desert breed, the Arabian Mau is athletic, energetic, and independent. They are high-energy cats that thrive on plenty of play and interaction.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Agile, Curious, Independent, Playful, Loyal
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Australian Mist gallery cover

Australian Mist

Bred to be the ultimate indoor pet, the Australian Mist is relaxed, affectionate, and social. They are excellent with children and other pets, making them perfect for NZ apartments.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Lively, Social, Fun-loving, Relaxed, Affectionate
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Balinese gallery cover

Balinese

The elegant long-haired version of the Siamese. Balinese are vocal, intelligent, and deeply affectionate 'velcro cats' that crave constant interaction.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Intelligent, Playful
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Bambino gallery cover

Bambino

A hairless, short-legged cross between a Sphynx and Munchkin. They are incredibly outgoing, affectionate, and require specialized skin care and warmth.

Size
2 - 4 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Lively, Friendly, Intelligent
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Bengal gallery cover

Bengal

Domestic cats with a stunning wild look. Bengals are high-energy, intelligent, and athletic. They require significant stimulation and are not typical lap cats.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Alert, Agile, Energetic, Demanding, Intelligent
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Birman gallery cover

Birman

The 'Sacred Cat of Burma.' Birmans are gentle, social, and balanced. Known for their blue eyes and white 'gloves,' they are affectionate without being demanding.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
14 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Active, Gentle, Social
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Bombay gallery cover

Bombay

The 'miniature panther.' Bombays are sleek, black, and copper-eyed. They are intensely people-oriented, affectionate, and love to investigate everything with their paws.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Dependent, Gentle, Intelligent, Playful
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British Longhair gallery cover

British Longhair

The long-haired counterpart to the British Shorthair. They are easy-going, dignified, and have a plush, dense coat. They are ideal indoor companions for busy Kiwi homes.

Size
4 - 8 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Easy Going, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Social
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British Shorthair gallery cover

British Shorthair

The 'Teddy Bear' of cats. Easy-going, patient, and very loyal. They are the perfect choice for NZ townhouse living as they are content with their own company.

Size
5 - 9 kg
Lifespan
12 - 17 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Easy Going, Gentle, Loyal, Patient, calm
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Burmese gallery cover

Burmese

Affectionately known as 'Velcro cats.' Burmese are incredibly people-oriented, vocal, and remain playful and kitten-like well into adulthood.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
15 - 16 years
Temperament
Curious, Intelligent, Gentle, Social, Interactive, Playful, Lively
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Burmilla gallery cover

Burmilla

A cross between Burmese and Chinchilla Persian. Burmillas are elegant, social, and more relaxed than the Burmese, known for their stunning silver coat.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Easy Going, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Playful, Social
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California Spangled gallery cover

California Spangled

Developed to look like wild cats, they are athletic, intelligent, and social. They are energetic companions that love to climb and play.

Size
5 - 7 kg
Lifespan
10 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Curious, Intelligent, Loyal, Social
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Chantilly-Tiffany gallery cover

Chantilly-Tiffany

A medium-sized, long-haired companion known for its loyal and quiet nature. Often called 'chocolate lovers,' they are gentle, devoted cats.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
14 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Demanding, Interactive, Loyal
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Chartreux gallery cover

Chartreux

Sturdy blue-grey cats from France with a silent and 'smiling' nature. They are loyal, intelligent, and quiet companions that adapt well to routine.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Loyal, Intelligent, Social, Lively, Playful
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Chausie gallery cover

Chausie

Majestic, large athletes developed from Jungle Cats. Chausies are high-energy and best suited for experienced owners who can provide significant stimulation.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Intelligent, Playful, Social
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Cheetoh gallery cover

Cheetoh

Designed to look wild with a sweet, dependable temperament. Cheetohs are social, affectionate, and larger than most domestic cats.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Gentle, Intelligent, Social
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Colorpoint Shorthair gallery cover

Colorpoint Shorthair

Extroverted, vocal relatives of the Siamese. They are highly intelligent, loyal companions with a wide range of striking coat colours.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Intelligent, Playful, Social
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Cornish Rex gallery cover

Cornish Rex

Famous for their curly 'wave' coat and bat-ears. Cornish Rex are playful, high-energy, and exceptionally soft to the touch.

Size
2 - 4 kg
Lifespan
11 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Intelligent, Active, Curious, Playful
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Cymric gallery cover

Cymric

The long-haired, tailless counterpart of the Manx. Sturdy and gentle with a rabbit-like hop, they are excellent companions for quiet homes.

Size
4 - 6 kg
Lifespan
8 - 14 years
Temperament
Gentle, Loyal, Intelligent, Playful
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Cyprus gallery cover

Cyprus

Hardy, athletic Mediterranean breed. Cyprus cats are balanced, sturdy, and intelligent companions that enjoy both play and quiet time.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Social
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Devon Rex gallery cover

Devon Rex

The 'alien cat' with large ears and a wavy coat. Devon Rex are social, mischievous, and love perching on their owners' shoulders.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Highly interactive, Mischievous, Loyal, Social, Playful
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Donskoy gallery cover

Donskoy

Unique hairless breed from Russia. Exceptionally affectionate and intelligent 'people magnets' that require specialized skin care.

Size
5 - 6 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Playful, affectionate, loyal, social
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Dragon Li gallery cover

Dragon Li

A natural Chinese breed with a wild mackerel tabby coat. Intelligent and alert independent thinkers that bond loyally with family.

Size
4 - 6 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Intelligent, Friendly, Gentle, Loving, Loyal
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Egyptian Mau gallery cover

Egyptian Mau

The fastest domestic cat. Athletic spotted beauties that are loyal, intelligent, and possess a unique chirruping voice.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
18 - 20 years
Temperament
Agile, Dependent, Gentle, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Playful
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European Burmese gallery cover

European Burmese

Elegant, social companions that crave human interaction. They possess a refined build and a talkative, playful nature.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Sweet, Affectionate, Loyal
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Exotic Shorthair gallery cover

Exotic Shorthair

The 'Persian in pyjamas.' Easy-going and affectionate with a short, plush coat. Perfect for low-maintenance glamour cat lovers.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Sweet, Loyal, Quiet, Peaceful
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Havana Brown gallery cover

Havana Brown

Rare chocolate beauties with green eyes. Exceptionally people-oriented and intelligent, investigating everything with their paws.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Curious, Demanding, Friendly, Intelligent, Playful
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Himalayan gallery cover

Himalayan

Persian coat meets Siamese colour. Sweet, quiet, and devoted indoor companions that require high-maintenance grooming.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
9 - 15 years
Temperament
Dependent, Gentle, Intelligent, Quiet, Social
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Japanese Bobtail gallery cover

Japanese Bobtail

Famous for pom-pom tails, they are active, vocal, and highly social. Known for being very 'talkative' and affectionate with Kiwi families.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
14 - 16 years
Temperament
Active, Agile, Clever, Easy Going, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Playful, Social
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Javanese gallery cover

Javanese

The Javanese is a long-haired, vocal, and highly intelligent companion. Known for their acrobatic skills and intense loyalty, they are 'velcro cats' that thrive on being the centre of your world in an active Kiwi household.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 12 years
Temperament
Active, Devoted, Intelligent, Playful
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Khao Manee gallery cover

Khao Manee

The 'Diamond Eye' cat of Thailand, known for its striking white coat and varied eye colours. They are social, outgoing, and highly intelligent companions that treat everyone as a friend.

Size
4 - 6 kg
Lifespan
10 - 12 years
Temperament
Calm, Relaxed, Talkative, Playful, Warm
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Korat gallery cover

Korat

The 'Good Luck' cat of Thailand, Korats are intelligent, sensitive, and bond deeply with their owners. They possess a shimmering silver-blue coat and striking green eyes, preferring a peaceful home environment.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Active, Loyal, highly intelligent, Expressive, Trainable
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Kurilian gallery cover

Kurilian

A natural breed famous for its pom-pom tail and wild look. Kurilians are sturdy, athletic, and surprisingly intelligent. They are known for their love of water and excellent fishing abilities.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
15 - 20 years
Temperament
Independent, highly intelligent, clever, inquisitive, sociable, playful, trainable
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LaPerm gallery cover

LaPerm

Known for its unique, curly 'permed' coat and gentle personality. LaPerms are social, intelligent, and love human companionship, making them wonderful pets for active Kiwi families.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Friendly, Gentle, Intelligent, Playful, Quiet
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Maine Coon gallery cover

Maine Coon

The 'Gentle Giant' of the cat world. Maine Coons are large, rugged, and famous for their tufted ears and bushy tails. Despite their size, they are sweet-tempered and highly intelligent, often acting more like dogs.

Size
5 - 8 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Adaptable, Intelligent, Loving, Gentle, Independent
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Malayan gallery cover

Malayan

The non-sable version of the Burmese, sharing the same muscular build and affectionate personality. They are social, people-oriented cats often described as 'bricks wrapped in silk'.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
12 - 18 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Interactive, Playful, Social
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Manx gallery cover

Manx

Famous for its lack of a tail, the Manx is a sturdy, intelligent, and loyal breed. They have a unique rabbit-like hop and are known for their social nature and excellent hunting abilities.

Size
3 - 6 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Easy Going, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Social
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Munchkin gallery cover

Munchkin

Known for their short legs, Munchkins are playful, extroverted, and surprisingly agile. They are fast runners and love to cuddle, making them great house pets for modern, indoor-focused Kiwi families.

Size
2 - 4 kg
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Temperament
Agile, Easy Going, Intelligent, Playful
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Nebelung gallery cover

Nebelung

An elegant breed with a shimmering silver-blue coat and green eyes. Often called a long-haired Russian Blue, they are shy with strangers but incredibly loyal to their chosen human family.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
11 - 16 years
Temperament
Gentle, Quiet, Shy, Playful
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Norwegian Forest Cat gallery cover

Norwegian Forest Cat

A large, sturdy 'Wegie' with a thick, water-repellent coat. They are natural athletes and climbers, well-suited for the cooler regions of the NZ South Island or alpine-style environments.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Sweet, Active, Intelligent, Social, Playful, Lively, Curious
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Ocicat gallery cover

Ocicat

Designed to look like a wild spotted cat but with a domestic temperament. Ocicats are athletic, intelligent, and social, often acting more like loyal dogs than typical cats.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Active, Agile, Curious, Demanding, Friendly, Gentle, Lively, Playful, Social
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Oriental gallery cover

Oriental

Orientals are passionate about the people in their lives. They become extremely attached to their humans, so be prepared for a lifetime commitment. When you are not available to entertain her, an Oriental will divert herself by jumping on top of the refrigerator, opening drawers, seeking out new hideaways.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Energetic, Affectionate, Intelligent, Social, Playful, Curious
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Oriental Shorthair gallery cover

Oriental Shorthair

A sleek, vocal, and high-energy athlete related to the Siamese. They possess large ears and intense social needs, often described as the 'helpers' of the household.

Size
Large
Lifespan
Lifespan guidance is covered in the profile summary.
Temperament
A sleek, vocal, and high-energy athlete related to the Siamese.
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Persian gallery cover

Persian

The ultimate glamour cat, known for its long coat and sweet, flat face. Persians are the quietest of breeds, preferring a serene household. They are strictly high-maintenance indoor companions.

Size
4 - 6 kg
Lifespan
14 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, loyal, Sedate, Quiet
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Pixie-bob gallery cover

Pixie-bob

Bred to resemble a wild bobcat, the Pixie-bob is a sturdy, loyal, and laid-back breed. Often polydactyl (extra toes), they possess a friendly, 'dog-like' personality and love to be involved.

Size
4 - 8 kg
Lifespan
13 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Social, Intelligent, Loyal
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Ragamuffin gallery cover

Ragamuffin

The Ragamuffin is calm, even tempered and gets along well with all family members. Changes in routine generally do not upset her. She is an ideal companion for those in apartments, and with children due to her patient nature.

Size
4 - 9 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Friendly, Gentle, Calm
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Ragdoll gallery cover

Ragdoll

NZ's ultimate 'puppy-cat'. Ragdolls are famous for their blue eyes and tendency to go limp like a doll. They are exceptionally docile and affectionate, making them the perfect indoor pet for Kiwi homes.

Size
5 - 9 kg
Lifespan
12 - 17 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Friendly, Gentle, Quiet, Easygoing
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Russian Blue gallery cover

Russian Blue

Elegant cats with a silver-blue coat and green eyes. Russian Blues are shy with strangers but intensely loyal to their owners, valuing routine and a peaceful home above all else.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
10 - 16 years
Temperament
Active, Dependent, Easy Going, Gentle, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Quiet
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Savannah gallery cover

Savannah

A cross between a domestic cat and a Serval, the Savannah is an athletic, high-energy companion. They possess a wild look and adventurous personality, requiring a dedicated owner and space.

Size
4 - 11 kg
Lifespan
17 - 20 years
Temperament
Curious, Social, Intelligent, Loyal, Outgoing, Adventurous, Affectionate
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Scottish Fold gallery cover

Scottish Fold

Famous for its unique folded ears and round face, the Scottish Fold is a sweet-tempered companion. They are devoted but come with health considerations due to their unique genetics.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
11 - 14 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Social, Sweet, Loving
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Selkirk Rex gallery cover

Selkirk Rex

The 'cat in sheep's clothing,' known for its unique, curly coat and sturdy build. They are patient, affectionate, and easy-going companions that thrive in busy households.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
14 - 15 years
Temperament
Active, Affectionate, Dependent, Gentle, Patient, Playful, Quiet, Social
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Siamese gallery cover

Siamese

The most vocal and extroverted of cats. Sleek, smart, and striking, they demand constant interaction and will 'talk' to you all day. They form deep, almost obsessive bonds.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Active, Agile, Clever, Sociable, Loving, Energetic
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Siberian gallery cover

Siberian

A majestic, large triple-coated breed with a sweet personality. They are natural athletes and problem-solvers, often described as 'hypoallergenic' by some owners.

Size
4 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Curious, Intelligent, Loyal, Sweet, Agile, Playful, Affectionate
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Singapura gallery cover

Singapura

One of the smallest breeds, known for its big ears and big eyes. They are high-energy, mischievous, and intensely social 'lap-magnets' that love being part of everything.

Size
2 - 4 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Curious, Easy Going, Intelligent, Interactive, Lively, Loyal
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Snowshoe gallery cover

Snowshoe

A cross between Siamese and American Shorthair, famous for white 'boots'. They are vocal, social, and affectionate companions that enjoy being around people and water.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
14 - 19 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Social, Intelligent, Sweet-tempered
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Somali gallery cover

Somali

The long-haired version of the Abyssinian, looking like a little fox. Active, intelligent, and curious athletes that love to be at the center of all family activities.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Temperament
Mischievous, Tenacious, Intelligent, Affectionate, Gentle, Interactive, Loyal
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Sphynx gallery cover

Sphynx

The world's most famous hairless cat. Extroverted, high-energy, and social magnets. They lack fur to absorb oils, making their care routine unique and high-maintenance.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Temperament
Loyal, Inquisitive, Friendly, Quiet, Gentle
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Tonkinese gallery cover

Tonkinese

A Siamese-Burmese cross. Intelligent, vocal, and highly affectionate. They possess the social nature of both parents and are known for striking aquamarine eyes.

Size
3 - 5 kg
Lifespan
14 - 16 years
Temperament
Curious, Intelligent, Social, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Affectionate
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Toyger gallery cover

Toyger

Designed to look like a miniature tiger. Sturdy, intelligent, and laid-back hunters. They are sociable companions that thrive in active, interactive Kiwi households.

Size
3 - 7 kg
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Temperament
Playful, Social, Intelligent
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Turkish Angora gallery cover

Turkish Angora

Elegant, intelligent, and determined ancient breed. They are highly active and will likely be the 'alpha' in any household, known for silky coats and striking eyes.

Size
2 - 5 kg
Lifespan
15 - 18 years
Temperament
Affectionate, Agile, Clever, Gentle, Intelligent, Playful, Social
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Turkish Van gallery cover

Turkish Van

The 'Swimming Cat' from Lake Van. Athletic, intelligent, and independent companions that thrive in active households and are famous for their love of water.

Size
3 - 9 kg
Lifespan
12 - 17 years
Temperament
Agile, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Energetic
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York Chocolate gallery cover

York Chocolate

A true lap cat with a sweet temperament and a stunning chocolate coat. They are curious, affectionate, and love to follow you everywhere, including near water.

Size
5 - 8 kg
Lifespan
13 - 15 years
Temperament
Playful, Social, Intelligent, Curious, Friendly
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