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Persian Breed
[CUI Links Persian]

Written by Yvonne Hendelberg

 Persian breed Description

"Bred in a protrusion of colours, the Persian cats are an important part of the pedigree cat show scene, and greatly appreciated by pet owners all over the world."

(Ref: The Book of the Cat; ed. Michael Wright & Sally Waters, 1980)

The history of the Persians is almost as broadspectred and complicated as the ways our different cat associations rule to classify them. Therefore, I will not further go into their differences but rather try to summarize what they have in common.

History

In a book published 1876, long-haired cats were referred to as Asiatic cats but it is probable that they were already introduced to Europe somewhat 300 years earlier. Over the years, names like Indian, Chinese, Russian and Angora have been used but some of these rather seem to indicate an exotic look than an origin. The first long-hairs seen in Britain were variously described as Angora, having rather rangy body type and tall ears. However, gradually the heavier, largerheaded type gained pre-eminence.

It is said that Queen Victoria gave the breed Royal Patronage and that the later Edward VII is recorded as having donated a special prize for Persians at a popular cat show. Indeed, to many people Persian epitomizr the pedigree- and show cat which was ideally suited for Victorian sensibilities and taste.

Type and characteristics

Body

The ideal Persian should be well proportioned and of medium to large size. The body should be compact and broad, with heavily-boned short legs. Heavy bone and good muscle tone. Back should be short and level with a well-rounded midsection. Shoulders and hips should be same size.

Head

The head of the Persian should be massive with a rounded forehead and a very broad skull. In profile the nose and the chin appear to form a perpendicular line. Cheeks should be full and prominent. Jaws; broad and powerful. The nose should be short to very short with a wellmarked break preferrably between the eyes. Perfect tooth occlusion. Ears should be small, round-tipped and welltufted. They should be set very wide apart and rather low on the head. The eyes should be round and large with an open expression and set wide apart. Colour in accordance to coat colour but vivid and brilliant preferred.

Legs and feet

Legs should be short, thick and heavily-boned. Feet should be large, round and firm with toes close together; five toes in front and four behind.

Tail

The tail should be short but in proportion to body length, carried at an angle lower than the back.

Coat

The soft, glossy coat should be long and full to stand from the body. It should be long over the entire body. Ruff should be immense and continue in a deep frill between the front legs. Toe tufts should be long also. Tailplume very full.

Condition

The cat should be firm in flesh but NOT fat. The preparation is of extra importance for the owners of the Persians since the impression  of the coat is predominant. Cleaning and grooming regularly.

Temperament

The Persian is the ideal cat for shows since it easily adapts to different set and places. It is a playful and very cuddly companion, however could be a little shy towards strangers at first.

For more information on classification of color and markings, we would like to refer to our different cat associations.

Persian Breed Links

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