Popular cat breeds in the UK: temperament, care needs and health questions to ask

There is no official "top 10" of cat breeds. Most cats in UK homes are not pedigrees at all, and a well-chosen moggy can be a wonderful companion. If you do want a pedigree, the best breed for you is the one whose temperament and care needs fit your life.

This guide covers some breeds UK owners often choose, what they tend to be like, and what to ask a breeder. Every cat is an individual, so treat breed descriptions as tendencies, not promises.

Popular breeds and what they are like to live with

British Shorthair

A sturdy, round-faced cat with a dense coat. British Shorthairs are usually calm and easy-going, and many prefer sitting near you to being picked up. The thick coat benefits from regular brushing, especially when it sheds. Because they can be fairly inactive, watch their weight and encourage play.

Ragdoll

A large, semi-long-haired cat known for a relaxed, gentle nature. Ragdolls often follow their owners around and enjoy company. Their coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Many owners keep them indoors or give them a secure garden, as they are not known for being streetwise.

Maine Coon

One of the largest domestic breeds, with a long, shaggy coat and a bushy tail. Maine Coons are usually friendly and playful well into adulthood. They need space, sturdy scratching posts and regular grooming. Their size means food, litter trays and carriers all need to be bigger.

Bengal

A very active, athletic cat with a striking spotted or marbled coat. Bengals are curious and energetic and need plenty of play, climbing space and things to do. A bored Bengal can become frustrated and destructive. This breed suits owners who have time for daily interactive play.

Siamese and Oriental

Slim, elegant cats with large ears. Siamese and Orientals are sociable, intelligent and often very vocal. They tend to want a lot of company and may not cope well left alone for long periods. Many owners find they do best with another cat or someone at home much of the day.

Persian

A long-haired cat with a calm nature. Persians need daily grooming to stop their coat matting, and help keeping their eyes and face clean. Many Persians have very flat faces, which can cause welfare problems (see below).

Sphynx

A hairless cat that is affectionate, lively and attention-seeking. Without a coat, a Sphynx feels the cold, can burn in the sun and needs regular bathing to remove oil from its skin. It needs a warm home and protection from strong sunshine.

Health and welfare: what to ask the breeder

Some breeds have been bred for features that can harm their welfare. International Cat Care and the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy both encourage breeding that puts health ahead of looks.

• Very flat faces. Cats with very short noses can have trouble breathing, eye problems, blocked tear ducts and difficulty eating. If you like Persians or Exotics, look for a breeder who avoids extreme flat faces.
• Folded ears and very short legs. Folded ears in Scottish Folds are linked to a cartilage and bone disorder that can cause painful joints. Very short legs are a form of dwarfism. Welfare groups advise against breeding for these features.
• Hairlessness. Hairless cats rely on their owners to keep them warm and protect their skin.
• Inherited diseases. Some breeds are prone to inherited problems, and screening is available for some of them, such as heart scans and DNA tests. Ask the breeder which health checks are recommended for the breed, whether both parents have had them, and to see the results.

A good breeder will answer these questions openly and won't be offended that you asked.

Choosing a breeder and a kitten

• See the kitten with its mother, in the home where it was raised, before paying anything.
• Kittens should not leave their mother too young. Ask when the kitten will be ready to go home, and be wary of anyone in a hurry.
• In England, kittens under six months cannot be sold by a third party such as a pet shop or dealer. Buy directly from the breeder or adopt from a rescue.
• In England, kittens must be microchipped before they are 20 weeks old. Ask for the microchip number and check the details are transferred to you.
• Ask for vaccination and vet records, and any health test results for the parents.
• A responsible breeder will ask you questions too, and should offer to take the cat back if things don't work out.