17 Breeds of Cat That Are All Beautiful

Amsterdam based Rob Bahou is an excellent photographer.

In his series of cat portraits entitled Animal Soul he treats the subject matter with respect without focusing on breed, behaviour, or funny moments, he manages to capture the diversity and beauty found in the world of cat breeds.

In his bio Rob says; “I don’t think that animals understand what a camera is, so when they look into a lens, they are not conscious of their appearance. As a result, they don’t adjust their expression, posture or body language, they just are what they are.“

1. Abyssinian Cat

The Abyssinian is a breed of domestic shorthaired cat from Africa with a distinctive “ticked” tabby coat, in which individual hairs are banded with different colours.

2. Bengal Cat

The Bengal cat is the result of breeding hybrids; their main origin being domesticated hybrids cats and the wild Asian Leopard Cat. They have a very “wild” look, with colour patterns resembling those of clouded leopards. Because they come from a line of wild, larger cats, they are athletic, tend to like water, and can jump and climb very well.

3. Birman Cat

The Birman can also be called the Sacred Cat of Burma, where their origins lie. These fluffy kitties have no undercoat, and although colours may vary, the coloration patterns show a darker face and ears, and four white gloved paws. They are also known for their round, sapphire blue eyes.

4. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is known for their broad face, dense coat of fur, and stocky body. They have an easygoing demeanour, but aren’t big fans of being held or carried.

5. Canadian Sphynx

The Sphynx cat breed is a breed of hairless cat, and the skin is coloured in the way that the fur would be — if they had any. Sphynxes are intelligent and friendly, known for being one of the more “dog-like” breeds.

6. Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is very similar to the Devon Rex, but a different gene mutation is the cause of this cat’s short, curly layer of fur. Cornish Rexes are very curious as well, and have the playful nature of a kitten even in adulthood.

7. Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is a lightly built cat, with large rounded ears and big eyes. Their coat is very light and wavy. Devon Rexes are very active cats that love people, and certainly get into a lot of mischief.

8. European Shorthair

European shorthair is a fancy way of classifying your “Average Joe” of the cat world. These cats originated in Europe and their colours vary immensely. Personality-wise they vary a lot as well, from super affectionate and fun playmates to reclusive and sneaky hunters.

9. Maine Coon

Among the largest of domesticated cats, the Maine Coon is characterised by their larger size, long silky fur, and bushy tail. Their nickname is the “Gentle Giant”, because of their loving and docile demeanour. Maine Coons come in a variety of colourations.

10. Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest cat is similar to the Maine Coon, and is a big, strong feline built to endure the harsh winter climate of Norway. These cats are skilled climbers and hunters, and generally have a lot of energy.

11. Oriental Shorthair

This breed is closely related to the Siamese cat. They have a wedge-shaped head with large ears closer to the sides than the tops of their heads. With their sleek build, these cats are very athletic and great at jumping.

12. Persian Cat

Persian cats are long-haired cats best known for their round face and flattened muzzle. Their coat coloration comes in a great variety of colours. They are very calm and rather sedentary cats, making them a popular breed in many households.

13. Pixiebob Cat

Pixie-bobs are a breed founded by Carol Anne Brewer, who claims that they stem from the breeding of domestic cats with wild bobcats. Pixie-bobs do indeed have a bobbed tail, and a bobcat-like fur pattern. They’re playful and love their owners, often following them around the house.

14. Ragdoll Cat

The Ragdoll cat was created by breeder Ann Baker, and is characterised by their blue eyes, long fluffy coat, and facial colouring. They are named for their tendency to go limp, like a ragdoll, when picked up.

15. Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a naturally-occurring breed from Russia, named for their silver-blue coat. These short-haired cats also have beautiful green eyes. They are generally very shy cats, and need to warm up to strangers before being friendly.

16. Snowshoe Cat

The Snowshoe is characterised by the inverted white “V” facial marks, four white paws or “boots”, and their brilliant blue eyes. They’re very affectionate cats who love to be cuddled, and sometimes are actually big fans of water.

17. Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora is an ancient breed of cat, originating in Turkey. Known for their long silky coats and elegant bodies, a large number of Angora cats are white, with two different-coloured eyes. They are intelligent and bond with humans, often choosing one member of the family to be their favourite.