Most Popular Cat Breeds

After searching high and low, looking at dozens of most popular cat breed lists, and reading all about the different popular cat breeds, I have come up with my own list of the overall top 3 cat breeds. I have chosen these 3 breeds based on my own opinions and experiences, as well as the opinions of many fellow cat owners I have spoken with on the matter. These 3 were among the top 10 in several articles. After learning more about these 3 wonderful breeds of cats, you may just have a new favorite.

Having owned a Persian cat, I have to admit I am a bit biased. Known for their sweet and affectionate personalities, the Persian cat is an easy favorite amongst those who have been around them. Their loving mannerisms make them great pets for both young and old. Having found a stray Persian cat in poor health and nurturing it back to health, I have been fortunate to own this incredibly sweet breed of cat.

According to TICA, the International Cat Association, Persian cats, "Persians are extremely intelligent...They communicate with you with their expressive eyes and expect you to understand their wishes - they will also look at you incredulously when you misunderstand them, after all you are supposed to be intelligent!" I always enjoyed my Persian cat's way of speaking to me with his scratchy old-man meow. It would always put a smile on my face. He would also turn his head back and forth as he was communicating, as if to put more emphasis on what he was trying to express.

Adopt a Pet is an organization that helps save lives of kittens and cats that need homes. According to them, "Cat adoption is more affordable, cats are trained, socialized and healthy." At this site you can search for a breed of cat to see if there is one in need of a home.

People who have owned Maine Coon cats say they are the best cat to have as a pet. My sister had one and swears they are the absolute best cats in the world. My neighbor has one and I have to admit, this cat is very intelligent, affectionate and beautiful too.

The Cat Fancier's Association describes the Maine Coon cat as a large, rugged cat; many colors and patterns are available. Its personality is gentle and easy going yet active.

If you are interested in attaining a Maine Coon cat, Pet Finder is a great site that allows you to search among several cats, determining which one has the characteristics that match you as an owner.

I have never had a Bengal cat, but have found it on many favorite cat lists. It is a very exotic and unusual-looking cat, reminding me of a leopard. Wikipedia states that the Bengal is a hybrid breed of domestic cat, resulting from crossing a domestic feline with an Asian leopard cat.

According to Animal World, "The 4th generation and later Bengals are social, extroverted cats that love human companionship and like being part of whatever's going on. An energetic cat breed, they are are quite kittenish and enjoy playing games like fetch or hide and seek." However, the 1st through 3rd generations are not considered domestic cats, and are used primarily for breeding.

San Jose Bengal Cats is a private breeder. This website provides loads of pictures, video and tons of information about these incredible cats.

To learn more about specific cat breeds, visit the following informative sites:

• The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

• The International Cat Association (TICA)

• American Cat Fancier's Association(ACFA)

• The Traditional Cat Association (TCA)