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Longhair
#4 most popular

Persian

The glamorous, flat-faced diva demanding daily beauty care.

Origin
Persia (Iran) / Italy
Size
medium
Weight
7–12 lbs
Lifespan
12–17 yrs
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About the Persian

Persian cats came to Europe from Persia (modern-day Iran) in the 1600s, captivating aristocrats with their long coats and dignified demeanor. Modern Persians are known for their flat faces, round eyes, and luxurious coats that demand daily grooming. They are quiet, sweet, and prefer calm homes.

Temperament
Trainability2/5
Child friendly3/5
Other pet friendly3/5
Stranger friendly2/5
Shedding5/5
Grooming needs5/5
Personality
sweet
quiet
docile
gentle
At a glance
Energy levellow
Coat lengthlong
Height8–10 in
Colorswhite, blue, black, red…
First-year cost$2,000–$4,000
Annual cost$1,100–$2,200

Common health issues

Every breed has predispositions. Knowing them helps you watch for early signs and discuss screening with your vet.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
high risk
Brachycephalic breathing issues
high risk
Eye tearing and staining
high risk
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
medium risk
Exercise

15–20 min play. They prefer lounging and watching birds from a window perch.

Grooming

Daily brushing is essential. Bathing every 4–6 weeks. Daily face cleaning.

Training

Not particularly trainable, but very routine-oriented. Keep their environment consistent.

Cost of ownership

Grooming costs add up: many owners hire a cat groomer monthly ($60–$100/session).

First year
$2,000–$4,000
Each year after
$1,100–$2,200
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Fun facts

  • 🐾Queen Victoria adored Persians — they became a status symbol in Victorian England.
  • 🐾They are the most popular pedigreed cat in the US for most of the 20th century.
  • 🐾Their flat face is a 'Peke-faced' trait that emerged in the late 1800s.

Best suited for

Quiet homes
Owners with grooming time
Indoor-only environments

What next?

Calculate your costs

See first-year, annual, and 10-year costs based on your ZIP code and lifestyle.

Check a symptom

Pre-loaded with Persian-specific health risks.

Identify a photo

Got a photo? AI will tell you if it looks like this breed.

Similar breeds

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British Shorthair

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Exotic Shorthair

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Siamese

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American Shorthair

Medical disclaimer: This profile is for general information only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for any health concerns.