Meet the Persian

Do you have a Persian? Persians are one of the most popular breeds in the world. These adorable kitties really are very sweet and lovable pets! A vet discusses the Persian below.

History

Persians have been getting us to pamper them for a very long time! In fact, they’re one of the oldest known breeds of cats. These fluffy furballs have been depicted in hieroglyphics dated as far back as 1684 BC. As one may suspect, Persians likely originated in Persia, specifically in the area now known as Iran. An Italian named Pietro Della Valle brought them to Europe in the 1500’s. We suspect Fluffy immediately wrapped the Italians around her paws, and has been warming laps worldwide ever since.

Temperament

Persians tend to be quite calm and cuddly. One study showed that the Persian scored higher than non-pedigreed kitties in many categories, including vocalization, cleanliness, and how affectionate they are. However, they can be rather picky about whose laps they grace. Fluffy may bond closely with their humans, but ignore everyone else.

Grooming

One of the Persians’ most distinct features is their pretty fur. Fluffy will need some help with her beauty routine. We recommend brushing her every day, or at least every other day. She may also need the occasional bath. If you adopt a kitten, it’s best to get your little ball of fluff used to being bathed while she’s young. Your future self will thank you.

Coloring

Persians are typically quite fluffy. These pretty furballs sport a variety of pretty colors and patterns. Some of these include solid, silver and gold, shaded, smoke, tabby, particolor, bicolor, and Himalayan.

Chatter

Persians are fairly talkative, but they aren’t too loud. Actually, their voices tend to be quite cute and charismatic, and perhaps a bit squeaky.

Activity

Persians are about average on the activity scale for cats. They’re playful, but once past kittenhood, they aren’t usually the frisky furballs that you’ll be plucking from your drapes or disengaging from your ankle. Persians really do best as pampered indoor ‘princess’ pets. We don’t recommend letting them go outdoors.

Health Issues

Persians are often quite flat-faced. Many breeders deliberately seek out that squished-face look. These kitties may be cute, but unfortunately they’re vulnerable to some serious health issues, including shortness of breath, eye problems, and tearing. In fact, activists are now pushing for changes in the breed standard. Ask your vet for care tips.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your veterinary clinic in Bennington, NE!