When I think of cats I picture three: domestic short hairs (coming in calico, black and white, or stripped), Siamese, and the fluffy ones that look eternally grumpy. But like dogs, there are breeds that have unique characteristics and I've compiled a list of the most popular for your enjoyment...

The Abyssinian Cat is perhaps the most interesting, because myths claim they are derived from the cat worshiped by the ancient Egyptians. They do look like the cats you picture lining the walls of tombs, don't they? The Abyssinian is said to be a curious and extremely active breed. They spend a lot of time playing, and will require a lot of toys (or a friend). With such a playful personality they will need a lot of attention from their owners.

The American Bobtail is one of my favorite breeds! They are also a new breed, emerging only in the 1960's...they obviously got their name from their tail. This is a muscular, stocky cat with big paws (by the breed standard), and they can have long or short hair. Another curious breed, the American Bobtail is prone to mischief, so you may want to incorporate another cat into your home so your pet doesn't get lonely.

American Curl's are darling as kittens, but look pretty funny as adult cats with their folded in ears, a trait completely unique to the breed. This breed is interesting because it's another new breed, coming forth in the 1980's after a California man adopted a stray. The American Curl kittens start off with normal ears, but after about 10 days they begin to curl! This breed is good for a single-pet home since they mostly enjoy keeping to themselves.

The Birman is a striking looking cat featuring a long silky cat, and huge eyes. No one is entirely sure where this breed came from, but it's said to be an older breed, perhaps stemming from Siamese ancestry. Be careful with this breed when purchasing, they are beautiful but are prone to hereditary health problems...after World War II the breed almost became extinct, and as a result a lot of in-breeding went on to save them

Siamese are an ancient breed, and with it's intelligence and charm the cat was one of the most popular in the 1950s. Not good for the person who's never home, these cats will cause much mischief if left to their own devices for too long..think of the two Siamese from Lady and the Tramp!

If you like the idea of a Siamese, but don't like the noise accompanying one, try a Burmese which is a less chatty version. These cats are extremely social, so if you plan on being away perhaps try a different breed...the Burmese strive best in a family environment.

The American Short hair is the typical cat – the one you think of, when you think of a family pet. Tabbies are the most common American Short tails, but they also come in bi color and tortie patterns. A quiet, mild mannered cat these work well with children as long as they aren't man-handled.

The British Short hair is very similar to the American Short hair, but they are more hefty creatures weighing between 9 to 18 pounds! They are excellent hunters, but if you're looking for a snuggle partner this is not the breed for you.

Main Coon cats are great huge cats! Known as the gentle giant, this breed was first seen in Maine during the late eighteen hundreds. The breed gets along well with other animals, and children, and these cats are extremely vocal. With it's beautiful coat your Maine Coon will require frequent grooming – keep that in mind if you are considering one for a pet.