My Pet World: These pedigreed cats have top billing
The Exotic, for the second year in a row, is the most popular cat breed in America, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association registry of pedigreed cats. In 2014, the Exotic knocked the Persian off its long-time perch as top cat.
Despite the breed's popularity, few outside the 'cat world' even know what the Exotic is. Think 'Persian look.' The Exotic is bred to meet the Persian standard in every way, with one very special exception: the coat. Exotics have much shorter hair, though plush, giving them a rounded, teddy bear look.
While estimates vary on the total number of purebred or pedigree dogs and cats in America, out of the nearly 70 million pet dogs in America, about 35 to 40 percent are purebred. Of the 74 million cats, fewer than 10 percent are pedigreed.
Historically, dogs were bred for function -- and sometimes still are -- while few cats are bred to herd sheep or guard property. Good looks and temperament count in felines. Just as dogs ranging from St. Bernard's to the Miniature Schnauzers tend to have their own temperaments, the same is true for cat breeds.
Here's the CFA list of America's top-8 pedigreed cats:
1. Exotic: Called the "lazy man's Persian," as this breed is pretty much the same as the Persian in every way, except for coat. No daily grooming required. These may be lap cats, or have other things on their agendas. Exotics are especially quiet cats. Though sometimes more playful than your average Persian, they're not 'in your face' for attention cats. Exotics come in a variety of colors and patterns.
2. Persian: Though easy-going, Persians are the royalty of the cat world, and they seem to know it. They enjoy your doting to improve upon their beauty, if that's even possible. Persians are a tad egocentric, as if they know they're born to be admired. Like their Exotic cousins, they have pushed-in faces and big, bold, round eyes of various colors. Daily grooming is required. Adult Persians aren't as interested in play as they are in posing for photos you can then post on Facebook. They come in a variety of colors.
3. Maine Coon: Dubbed the Gentle Giant, the Maine Coon is an All-American breed. Bred originally from farm cats in the state for which they're named, they have large, well-tufted paws, allowing them to walk easily on top of snow. Their ears are large and tufted for protection and warmth. Maine Coons are one of many pedigreed cats dubbed "dog-like" for their outgoing dispositions and tendency to follow their favorite people around. While any cat can get along with dogs, Maine Coons have a special affinity for canine buddies. They come in many colors.
4. Ragdoll: Their multi-colored coats and patterns are a part of their appeal, along with those sparkling blue eyes. These larger, long-haired cats' most noteworthy attribute is their habit of going limp when held, like a Ragdoll. In truth, this behavior doesn't always occur, but all Ragdolls are affectionate and devoted to their people. Though their exact ancestry is unknown, Ragdolls were bred in the U.S. starting in the 1960s.
5. British Shorthair: Calm and affectionate, these cats like to hang out. Developed from the hardy street cats of England, their eyes are round and typically bright copper or gold. The breed comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
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