If you meet a Persian, you will discover its calm nature and gentle personality. They are playful on their own terms and feel most at home in the peaceful surroundings indoors. The thick coat makes the cat tolerate our outdoor climate well, but if it should come across some territorial neighbor cats, the familiar Persian will be an easy match. As a family cat, Persians get along well with calm children who engage in brushing their fur, rather than energetic play. Therefore, this breed of cat is best suited to families that can accommodate its need for calm and respect.

When it comes to the Persian cat's attention needs, it loves to be petted and brushed. However, it does not demand attention, as it relaxes nicely on its own in bed or on the sofa. This cuddly cat also does not require hours of activity every day, but you should still set aside time for your Persian cat and provide it with stimulation in the form ofcat toys and scratching furniture. If the Persian becomes overweight, it will worsen the breathing problems it is already predisposed to.

Size and appearance

The Persian is a medium-sized cat with a furry body. It has a distinctive, broad face with a flat nose. The coat comes in many color variations and patterns with basic colors such as white, black, red and orange. The Persian is not very talkative, but rather communicates with its large, expressive eyes.

Weight

The male Persian weighs around 4 - 6.5 kg, but the female Persian is somewhat lighter at 3 - 4.5 kg.

Lifespan

12 - 15 years

Hereditary diseases

Hereditary diseases in Persians include polycystic kidney disease , progressive retinal atrophy , hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia . The cute face doesn't come without problems either. Brachycephalic cat breeds, i.e. cat breeds with flat skulls, can have watery eyes and breathing problems. The combination of breathing challenges and a low threshold for stressful environments has meant that many airlines do not want to transport this breed of cat. In the summer, it is also important to pay attention to the temperature, as it becomes even more difficult for the Persian to breathe when it is hot.

It is no secret that a Persian comes with a lot of grooming. You have to get used to the fact that both clothes and furniture have traces of cat fur, no matter how much you brush it. With a beautiful coat, a lot ofcat grooming is required in the form of daily brushing, preferably with a steel comb. This is to remove loose hair and avoid painful tangles and fur knots.

Because of its long-haired fur from muzzle to tail tip, feces and cat litter can easily get stuck on the cat's bottom. It is important to be extra helpful in keeping the area clean. Train your Persian from a kitten to tolerate brushing on the paws and between the toes. Many people also choose to bathe and blow dry their Persian when the fur feels greasy, or if they are going to be used in a show.

When choosing cat food for a Persian, you should choose a type of food that is adapted to the cat's health, age and lifestyle. This is not one of the most active cats, so it is extra important to monitor its diet. As with all cats, the Persian cat should always have access to clean, fresh water. It may also be a good idea to plant some cat grass indoors, or choose a type of food that helps prevent hairballs from forming in the stomach.