Looking to adopt a kitty? The Hawthorne is here to help you find the perfect furever friend with this guide to common cat breeds.
Domestic Shorthair
Given that domestic shorthair cats make up somewhere between 90% and 95% of cats in the United States, this is the type of cat you’ll most likely adopt. Domestic shorthairs, like their longhair counterparts, are basically mixed-breed cats of unknown ancestry. They come in all sorts of sizes and color configurations and make wonderful pets. As far as their personalities go, that can run the gamut, too. No surprise, given their mixed ancestral backgrounds.
Life span: 12-14 years, or more
Average weight: 6-16 pounds
Domestic Longhair
As you probably guessed, domestic longhair cats share many of the same traits as their shorthair counterparts. Their mixed-breed heritage results in a wide range of shapes, colors, sizes, and personality types. They’re the second-most popular house cat in the U.S.
Life span: 12-18 years, or more
Average weight: 8-15 pounds
Maine Coon
These furry beasts are kind of like the Great Danes of the cat world. And, like Danes, Maine Coons have a reputation for being gentle giants. Sweet, sociable, and intelligent, these delightful creatures are an excellent choice for anyone looking to adopt. They come in a wide mix of colors and – fun fact alert – are Maine’s official state cat.
Life span: 12-15 years, or more
Average weight: 8-18 pounds
Ragdoll
These handsome fluff balls are known for their deep blue eyes, laid-back temperament, and endless affection. Like Maine Coons, ragdolls are rather large. Their soft, medium-length coats come in striking pointed colors (pale body with darker fur on the face, feet, and tail).
Life span: 12-15 years, or more
Average weight: 8-20 pounds
American Shorthair
Once bred to protect grain harvests from rats and mice, these beautiful cats are blue-collar to the core. Their athletic frame, cute round faces, and variety of colors and patterns make them a popular pet in the present day.
Life span: 15-20 years, or more
Average weight: 10-15 pounds
Siamese
Instantly recognizable for its point coloring, stunning blue eyes, triangular head, and long, slender frame, the Siamese cat is a sight to behold. These gorgeous kitties are also highly intelligent and social. They crave attention from people as well as other cats.
Life span: 12-20 years, or more
Average weight: 6-14 pounds
Russian Blue
These dark, bluish-gray beauties make caring and clever companions. The Russian blue breed is thought to have originated in northwest Russia, making their way across the globe in the 1800 and 1900s. It’s not hard to see the appeal, given their stunning appearance and gregarious ways.
Life span: 15-20 years, or more
Average weight: 7-15 pounds
Bengal
Featuring distinctive markings that resemble those gracing their namesake, Bengal cats are an instantly recognizable breed that’s wildly popular. But,it’s not just the gorgeously patterned coat that wins over its fans. Bengals have great personalities, too. Energetic, intelligent, and affectionate, these kitties are an excellent – though hard to come by – choice for those looking to adopt.
Life span: 9-15 years, or more
Average weight: 8-15 pounds
Persian
These big-eyed, flat-faced, long-haired kitties are one of the oldest cat breeds, with roots dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. They boast a variety of colors, tend to be kind and quiet, and “are prone to a number of health problems, most commonly related to their facial structure,” according to CatTime.com.
Life span: 10-15 years, or more
Average weight: 7-12 pounds
Bombay
Bred to look like mini black panthers, these all-black cats are social, energetic, and handsome. They’re instantly recognizable for their gold or green eyes and, because they love attention so much, they’re best suited for a home where they’ll get plenty of it.
Life span: 12 to 18 years, or more
Average weight: 8-15 pounds
Check Out Local Shelters
Here’s a list of local shelters to aid you in your search for a new furry friend:
- Jacksonville Humane Society
- Froggy’s Cat Rescue
- Animal Care & Protective Services
- Nassau Humane Society
- Safe Animal Shelter
Visit The Hawthorne blog for more tips on living your best life in Jacksonville, Florida.