Long-Haired Cat Breeds - Cats with the Most Lush Locks

Long-haired cats are the result of a number of genetic mutations. These cats have been bred for centuries in Asia to resist the fleas which plagued their ancestors in the Middle East and Europe.

They have also been bred specifically to live in warm climates with some having double coats for extra protection against cold and wet weather.

Long-haired cats have been popular ever since, and there are many different long-haired breeds that are perfect for anyone looking to add a new cat to their family.

Some of the most popular cat breeds with long hair can have a wide variety of hair types, from a curly coat with a bushy tail, to triple coat breeds such as the Persian cat which require regular grooming but are more weather resistant.

Each of these breeds has its own unique personality and attributes that make them great companions.

If you're interested in adding a long-haired cat to your family, be sure to research the different long hair breed of cat before making a decision. Here, we showcase Waggel's top 5 long hair cat breeds.

Persian long-haired cats are some of the most popular cats in the world.

Persians are a long-haired cat breed that was originally from, you guessed it, Persia or modern-day Iran in the Middle East. The history of the Persian long-haired cat goes back centuries.

They're known for their round face and short muzzle and usually enjoy sunbathing throughout the day.

Male Persians can weigh 5 kg or more. Females can weigh between 4-5 kg, and both come in many different colours.

They have big, expressive eyes and are very active cats that require plenty of activity and playtime.

They are such a popular breed due to their cuteness, their amazing fluffy tail and beautiful long hair. While they do require regular grooming to keep their coats looking healthy and shiny, they are generally considered low-maintenance pets.

Birmans are one of the most popular long-haired cat breeds, and for good reason.

They're highly social and playful, making them great pets for families. They have a beautiful medium-length silky coat that doesn't mat, so they're perfect for allergy sufferers.

Birmans come in a variety of colours and weigh between 3-5 kg, so there's sure to be a cat that fits your lifestyle.

Himalayan long-haired cats are fascinating felines with unique fur patterns.

These cats hail from the high mountains of the Himalayas, where they have evolved to survive in cold, harsh conditions.

Their fur is thicker and more protective than that of other domestic cats, and their beautiful coats come in a wide range of colours, including black, grey, white, orange, and yellow.

These cats are active and playful indoors and love to play with their owners. Their friendly personalities are a real pleasure all owners enjoy. They have low exercise needs; however, they do need frequent grooming due to their coat type, so please bear this in mind.

Also, they only have blue eyes, which look like little jewels, making them a super cute breed!

Known for their large size and tufts of fur on their luxurious coats. Maine Coons are considered the gentle giants of the feline world.

Though these cats may appear big, they’re actually quite affectionate. They’re known to be friendly with other cats, people and even dogs.

They usually don't mind cuddling up on your lap and showing their love by making sounds. If you own a Maine Coon, you know they are always the centre of attention.

They’re not just smart, but they’re also quite clever – some people consider them dog-like because they can learn to perform simple tasks.

Unlike most cats, Maine Coons also have an affinity for water, which means they may play in their water bowl or in puddles.

They are also not as demanding as other long-haired cats when it comes to grooming. Regular brushing will help to maintain their coat and remove dead hair and keep their skin oils active.

Also known as the “skogkatt,” these large cats are covered in a long fur that’s longer than it appears at first glance. Their coats were bred to keep them warm during the cold winter months.

They also have a beautiful plumed tail.

They have a double coat, which means that they have two layers: an insulating layer made from long and coarse hair and a waterproof layer.

This means they may require more daily grooming, especially when they are shedding.

A perfect pet for the colder climates, your Norwegian Forest Cat will be your loving companion no matter the weather.

In size terms, adults can grow up to about 7kg, which makes them look rugged and outdoorsy.

They're usually happy to stay near home, so they make great companions for people who live alone. They are quite an active breed and are known to be friendly with other pets.

Each of these breeds has its own unique set of characteristics, so be sure to do your research before deciding on the perfect one for you.

And remember, whether you choose a short- or long-haired cat, make sure to give it plenty of love and attention – they’ll return the favour tenfold. Thanks for reading!

Looking for more feline information? Check out our cat insurance guide, or our guide to indoor cats. We also have topics answering the questions you ask most, such as "why is my cat kneading?" We're always here to help you live your best life with your pet.