PERSONALITY: Sociable, smart, sweet, engaged

WEIGHT: Up to 14 pounds

LENGTH: Up to 17 inches

COAT LENGTH: Hairless, flock, chamois, brush, or straight

COAT COLOR: White, black, red/orange, gray, fawn, or lilac

COAT PATTERN: Solid, bicolor, tabby, or color point

EYE COLOR: Gold, green, or blue

LIFE SPAN: Up to 15 years

HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes

ORIGIN: Russia

Let’s face it—cats are intriguing creatures. Throughout history, civilizations large and small have recognized the unique nature of these special creatures. And today, we’re still amazed at their peculiar ways—from how they bolt around the house and play with toys to playing with each other and their human friends and owners.

However, even the biggest cat lovers and enthusiasts might not truly understand or appreciate how extraordinary these feline companions are. In this article, we’ll share a few little-known feline secrets that may deepen your appreciation for these remarkable animals.

10 Interesting Facts About Cats

 Whether you’re a lifelong cat enthusiast or just want to learn a bit about their curious behaviors, there’s bound to be something here that will make you smile. 

Check out this list of interesting facts about cats that will surprise and delight!

1. Can you hear me now? Cats have exceptional hearing – almost five times stronger than a human’s ability, and even have a broader range of pitch detection than dogs. They can even hear ultrasonic noises that may signal an upcoming earthquake. 
2. Nice grill! Cats have 30 adult teeth specifically designed to shred meat rather than chew it, with their canines being extra sharp so that they can efficiently break the necks of their prey. 
3. Poor Tweety Bird: Did you know that cats are responsible for killing an estimated 566 million birds annually? This is partly because of their innate ability to stalk prey and pounce silently!
4. Lefties and Righties: Just as humans are predominantly left- or right-handed, cats prefer one paw. Around 40% of cats are left-pawed, 20% favor their right paw, and 40% use both equally, making them ambidextrous.
5. Shedding: Most cats’ fur comprises a soft, fine undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. They shed their fur in response to seasonal daylight changes, typically in spring. Indoor cats, on the other hand, may shed their fur year-round due to their exposure to artificial light bulbs. 
6. Time Keepers. A cat’s sense of time is remarkably sharp and accurate. Many cat owners say their cat can ‘sense’ exactly when feeding time is and when their owner will return home. Cats tend to have unique intelligence and awareness of subtle environmental changes, enabling them to notice routine shifts.
7. Why the Whiskers? A cat’s whiskers are more than just a charming and cute feature. First, they’re packed with sensory nerves that gather information about their immediate surroundings. Second, they play a crucial role in hunting as they help detect movement. Lastly, cats use them to communicate their mood. When the whiskers are pushed forward, they are curious, focused on playing or tracking prey.  
8. Why are Siamese so vocal? Siamese are known for being quite vocal, this is their way of demanding attention. These highly intelligent and affectionate creatures are known as ‘people cats’ because of the deep connection they typically form with their human companions. 
9. The Maine Coon Cat: This gentle giant is one of America’s favorite cat breeds. The Maine Coon is a gentle giant and one of America’s favorite cat breeds. With males weighing over 20 pounds, these cats are impressively large yet remarkably laid-back. They are also described as having dog-like qualities, making them both unique and endearing pets.
10. Impression Lineage: Today’s domestic cats trace their lineage to Felis silvestris lybica, a small wild cat from Africa. Unlike lions and tigers, this branch of the evolutionary tree is distinct and was key to the domestication of cats. Evidence of this origin was found in a 2004 discovery in Cyprus, where a cat buried alongside its owner revealed that humans began domesticating cats over 9,500 years ago.

Quick-Read Cat Trivia

By combining their sharp instincts, impressive abilities, and unique quirks, cats continue to be a source of wonder for their humans. 

• A Record-Breaking Life: The oldest cat on record, Creme Puff, lived an astonishing 38 years and 3 days. Born in Texas in 1967 and passing in 2005, this feline defied expectations and taught us that cats can enjoy remarkable longevity with a loving home and good care.
• No Sweet Tooth: Unlike humans and dogs, cats can’t taste sweetness! This is because they lack the taste receptors for sugary flavors. If your cat seems unimpressed by desserts, it’s simply biology at play. Their taste buds are more attuned to savoring meaty and savory delights, which aligns with their carnivorous nature.
• Purring Power: Beyond being adorable, a cat’s purring may actually have healing benefits. Studies suggest that purring at certain frequencies is linked to bone healing and tissue regeneration. Some researchers also believe purring serves as a self-soothing mechanism, helping cats relax and recover during stress or injury.

Wrapping Up with Purr-fect Cat Tales

Cats truly are captivating companions, brimming with curiosity, quirks, and tales that enrich our lives. From their mysterious biology to their endearing habits, these incredible animals amaze us with their charm and uniqueness. Whether it’s learning that their purrs might hold healing powers or marveling at their unexpected lack of a sweet tooth, there’s always more to uncover about our feline friends.

Now it’s your turn! What’s your favorite feline fact? Or perhaps you have a unique cat story of your own? Share it with us — we’d love to hear how cats have brought wonder into your world!

Feature Image by krystianwin from Pixabay

Second Image by Foden Nguyen from Pixabay

We’ve rounded up the cutest cat breeds around to give you a peek into what they’re like to own.

The Cutest Cat Breeds & What They’re Like

With a super soft, fluffy coat and gorgeous blue eyes, the Ragdoll is perfect for snuggling up with. They get their name from a unique trait: they go limp when picked up, a sign of their docile temperament. Ragdoll cats are also known for being friendly and loving to play. Despite their large size—they’re one of the largest cat breeds—Ragdolls are known for being gentle and social.

Ragdoll Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-11 inches
WEIGHT: 8-15 pounds (female), up to 20 pounds (male)
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, playful, docile
ENERGY LEVEL: Low to medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Semi-long and silky, main colours include seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, red, and cream
HEALTH CONCERNS: Can be predisposed to heart disease, kidney issues, and obesity
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13-18 years

 

The sweet Scottish Fold’s hallmark folded ears give it a cute owl-like appearance that many people find endearing. Add to that the breed’s trademark adorably round face, eyes, and body, as you have an irresistibly cute cat breed. Scottish Folds are typically gentle and are affectionate without being needy.

Scottish Fold Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-10 inches
WEIGHT: 6-13 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, quiet, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Both long and short-haired, variety of colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to osteochondrodysplasia, a genetic condition that impacts cartilage and bone development
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 14-16 years

 

Commonly referred to as “the gentle giant,” the Maine Coon Cat is a large, muscular, affectionate cat that can tip the scales at a whopping 25 pounds. Their large, bushy tail and fluffy neck call out for cuddles, and their tall ears are often tufted with fur, giving them a lynx-like appearance. Because of their laid-back personality, they’re a good fit for households with other cats or dogs. In fact, Maine Coon Cats are often described as having dog-like qualities. They are known for their friendly, playful, and trainable nature, often enjoying activities like playing fetch, going for walks on a leash, and responding to commands.

Maine Coon Cat Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 10-16 inches
WEIGHT: 6-13 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, playful, trainable
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Long, variety of colours and patterns
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), hip dysplasia, and polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10-13 years

 

If you wish your cat could stay a kitten forever, then a Munchkin might be the closest thing you can get. With their short legs and small bodies, Munchkins have a kitten-like or toy-like appearance. But the breed’s hallmark short legs are caused by a genetic mutation, and there are concerns around the ethical implications of breeding for a physical abnormality—the Munchkin’s short legs remain a point of contention among cat breeders and organizations. While the International Cat Association (TICA) does recognize the Munchkin, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), along with other organizations like the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe), does not. This is due to concerns about the health implications of the genetic mutation that causes the Munchkin’s short legs.

Munchkin Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 6-9 inches
WEIGHT: 4-9 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Energetic, affectionate, active
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Shorthaired and long-haired, all colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to spinal and joint issues
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-15 years

 

The Selkirk Rex’s super curly hair and large, fuzzy paws make it an indisputably adorable breed. The unusual, highly curled coat is the most notable attribute of this charming, laid-back cat. This medium to large breed is muscular and short-muzzled. The Selkirk Rex is known to be an affectionate breed that loves to cuddle.

Selkirk Rex Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-11 inches
WEIGHT: 7-16 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Loving, loyal, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Long or short; common colours include chocolate, lilac, white, black, red, and cream
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and PKD
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10-15 years

 

6. Turkish Angora

With a long, flowing coat, Turkish Angoras have an elegant, graceful air about them. They often walk with their tail held high like a feather duster. As an intelligent breed, Turkish Angoras are curious and love to be involved in your daily activities. 

Turkish Angora Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-14 inches
WEIGHT: 5-10 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, friendly, curious
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Semi-long. Although they’re typically associated with white, they do come in a variety of colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to deafness and heart disease
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 15-20 years

 

7. Birman

Birmans have gorgeous, expressive blue eyes that are certain to catch your attention. They also have little white “gloves” on each paw, adding to their adorable appearance. Quiet and loving, Birmans are well-suited for a variety of households.

Birman Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-11 inches
WEIGHT: 7-15 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Quiet, loving, gentle
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Medium length, white “gloves” on each paw
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and eye issues, like cataracts
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 9-13 years

 

The Russian Blue is a gorgeous cat that comes in a range of beautiful blue colours. They also have striking almond-shaped green eyes that contrast with their coat. Although Russian Blues can be reserved with new people, they typically develop strong, loyal bonds with one person.

Russian Blue Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-11 inches
WEIGHT: 7-15 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, loyal, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short, dense coat; blue with silver tipping
HEALTH CONCERNS: Generally healthy (No breed-specific health concerns)
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 15-20 years

 

As you might have guessed, LaPerms have curls and ringlets that make them look like they’ve just had a perm. Along with their trademark curly coat, their large eyes give them an adorably curious expression. They have a friendly personality and tend to be good in households with other pets.

LaPerm Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 6-10 inches
WEIGHT: 5-8 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, curious, gentle
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Both short and long hair, various colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and kidney disease
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10-15 years

 

10. Bombay

With gorgeous, glossy black fur, Bombays look like little panthers. Unlike real panthers, though, they’re friendly and affectionate, and love to play with their owners.

Bombay Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-13 inches
WEIGHT: 7-12 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short, jet-black colour
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and craniofacial defects
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 15-17 years

 

With their beautiful blue, almond-shaped eyes, Siamese cats have a curious, intelligent expression. Their signature “pointed” look of dark ears, face, paws, and tail also adds to their unique appearance. As social cats, Siamese cats are especially vocal and love to “chat” with their owners.

Siamese Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-10 inches
WEIGHT: 8-14 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, intelligent, vocal
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short, light-coloured body with darker “points”
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to amyloidosis, HCM, and progressive retinal atrophy
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 15-20 years

 

Their thick, fluffy coat, expressive eyes, and round face, make Ragamuffins look downright lovable. Their personality also matches their appearance; Ragamuffins are affectionate and sociable and work well in a variety of households. 

Ragamuffin Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-12 inches
WEIGHT: 8-20 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, friendly
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Medium length, variety of patterns and colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and PKD
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-18 years

 

13. American Bobtail

With a signature bobbed tail, American Bobtails look like wildcats, but they’re not. Unlike a wild cat, they’re affectionate and cuddly. They also tend to get along well with kids and other pets.

American Bobtail Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 10-12 inches
WEIGHT: 7-16 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Playful, friendly, intelligent
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Both long and short hair, variety of patterns and colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to hip dysplasia and kidney disease
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13-18 years

 

14. Siberian

One of the interesting things about Siberian cats is that they take five years to reach their full size and maturity, meaning that you can enjoy the kitten years for a bit longer. Whether they’re full-grown or not, Siberian cats have big, round eyes and a full, fluffy tail that adds to their cute appearance. They’re also affectionate and highly loyal.

Siberian Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-11 inches
WEIGHT: 8-14 pounds (females), 12-20 pounds (males)
TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Semi-long, variety of colours and patterns
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM and PKD
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10-18 years

 

One of the Japanese Bobtail’s distinguishing (and adorable) features is that their tail looks like a bunny tail. They also have beautiful almond eyes and a triangular face. Japanese Bobtails are social, affectionate cats that make great pets.

Japanese Bobtail Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-9 inches
WEIGHT: 8-10 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, intelligent, active
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Both long and short hair, variety of colours and patterns
HEALTH CONCERNS: Generally healthy
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 9-15 years

 

The Persian cat’s round face and short muzzle give it an adorable look. They also have a fluffy appearance thanks to their long hair. While Persians are affectionate, they’re also quiet and not overly demanding.

Persian Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-10 inches
WEIGHT: 7-12 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Low to medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Long, variety of colours and patterns
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to breathing difficulties and eye problems
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 15-20 years

 

17. British Shorthair

Thanks to their round face and full cheeks, British Shorthairs have a teddy bear-like appearance that is the definition of cute. They’re loyal cats that are quiet and good in homes with children and other cats. 

British Shorthair Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 12-14 inches
WEIGHT: 7-12 pounds (females), 9-17 pounds (males)
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, intelligent, easygoing
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short, dense, variety of colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to heart disease, kidney disease, and eye conditions
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-20 years

 

Bengal cats have a spotted or marble coat that is similar to a leopard. These cats can also have a “glimmer gene,” meaning that their coat sparkles or shimmers in the sun. As a high-energy breed, Bengals love to play and are highly intelligent.

Bengal Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-10 inches
WEIGHT: 8-12 pounds (females), 10-15 pounds (males)
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, curious, active
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short to medium, brown, silver, and snow
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-16 years

 

19. Abyssinian

Abyssinians have a gorgeous “ticked” tabby coat, which means that each hair contains bands of different colours, giving them a glowing appearance. As a playful and energetic breed, Abyssinians are endlessly curious.

Abyssinian Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 8-10 inches
WEIGHT: 8-12 pounds
TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, curious, intelligent
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Short to medium, unique “ticked” pattern
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to hip dysplasia and eye disease
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 9-15 years

 

Looking straight out of a storybook, Norwegian Forest Cats have thick, fluffy coats. While they’re larger cats, they have a small, kitten-like face. They’re affectionate cats that work well in homes with children and other pets.

Norwegian Forest Cat Breed Overview

HEIGHT: 9-12 inches
WEIGHT: 8-16 pounds (females), 12-20 pounds (males)
TEMPERAMENT: Playful, intelligent
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT LENGTH & COLOUR: Semi-long, various colours
HEALTH CONCERNS: Predisposed to HCM, hip dysplasia, glycogen storage disease type IV, and PKD
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-20 years

 

Want to learn more about cat breeds? Check out all our breed content here!