Cats have long been beloved companions, but some breeds require more attention and care than others. While all felines need love and proper care, certain high-maintenance breeds demand extra grooming, attention, and specialized care due to their unique physical traits or temperaments.
The International Cat Association recognizes 73 distinct cat breeds, each with its own set of characteristics and care requirements.1 For those considering a feline friend, it’s crucial to understand that some breeds may need daily grooming, special diets, or extra mental stimulation.
Here are 15 cat breeds that are as charming as they are demanding.
1. Persian
Persian cats are renowned for their luxurious, flowing coats and distinctive flat faces. These regal felines have been cherished for centuries, tracing their origins to ancient Persia.
With their sweet dispositions and calm demeanor, Persians have earned the nickname “furniture with fur. ” But don’t let their relaxed nature fool you – they require significant grooming and care to maintain their iconic appearance.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Daily grooming required to prevent matting
- Prone to eye discharge that needs regular cleaning
- Susceptible to respiratory issues due to facial structure
- May need special diets to maintain a healthy weight
2. Maine Coon
Maine Coons, often called the “gentle giants” of the cat world, are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds. Originating in the state of Maine, these majestic felines are known for their tufted ears, bushy tails, and impressive size, with some males weighing up to 18 pounds.
Their friendly, dog-like personalities and adaptability to various environments make them popular family pets.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require frequent grooming due to their long, thick coats
- Need large spaces and plenty of exercise
- Prone to certain genetic health issues
- High food consumption due to their size
3. Sphynx
The Sphynx is a unique, hairless breed that turns heads with its wrinkled skin and large ears. Contrary to popular belief, these cats aren’t completely hairless – they’re covered in a fine down that feels like suede to the touch.
Known for their extroverted personalities and high energy levels, Sphynx cats are often described as “dog-like” in their devotion to their human companions.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Regular bathing needed to remove body oils
- Sensitive to temperature changes, requiring special care
- Prone to skin issues and sunburn
- High energy levels demand lots of playtime and interaction
4. Himalayan
Himalayans are a cross between Persian and Siamese cats, combining the best features of both breeds. These striking felines boast the long, luxurious coat of a Persian with the color points and blue eyes of a Siamese.
Known for their sweet and gentle nature, Himalayans are perfect for those seeking a calm and affectionate companion.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Extensive daily grooming required
- Prone to respiratory issues and eye problems
- May need special diets to prevent weight gain
- Require consistent attention and companionship
5. Bengal
Bengal cats are known for their wild appearance, resembling miniature leopards with their distinctive spotted or marbled coats. Developed by crossing domestic cats with Asian leopard cats, Bengals retain the look of their wild ancestors but with the temperament of a house cat.
These active and intelligent felines are known for their love of water and high energy levels.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- High energy levels require lots of exercise and play
- Need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior
- May have special dietary needs
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues
6. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are instantly recognizable by their unique folded ears, which give them an owl-like appearance. This distinctive feature is the result of a natural genetic mutation first observed in a barn cat in Scotland.
Beyond their adorable looks, Scottish Folds are known for their sweet nature and adaptability to various home environments.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Prone to genetic health issues, particularly affecting cartilage and bones
- May require special care for their ears
- Need regular exercise to prevent weight gain
- Can be prone to separation anxiety
7. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are large, semi-longhaired cats known for their striking blue eyes and color point coats. Their name comes from their tendency to relax and go limp when held, much like a ragdoll.
Developed in the 1960s, these gentle giants are renowned for their affectionate nature and dog-like devotion to their human companions.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require regular grooming to prevent matting
- Need lots of attention and interaction
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues
- May have special dietary requirements
8. Siamese
Siamese cats are one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds, known for their sleek bodies, color point coats, and striking blue almond-shaped eyes. Originating in Thailand (formerly Siam), these vocal and intelligent cats have been cherished companions for centuries.
Their outgoing and demanding personalities make them perfect for those seeking an interactive feline friend.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Demand constant attention and interaction
- Prone to separation anxiety
- May develop behavior issues if not properly stimulated
- Can be prone to certain health problems, including respiratory issues
9. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthairs are essentially short-haired Persians, combining the sweet face and gentle temperament of a Persian with a more manageable coat.
Developed in the 1960s by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs, these cats offer the best of both worlds – the adorable “teddy bear” look of a Persian without the extensive grooming requirements.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Prone to similar health issues as Persians, including respiratory problems
- Require regular eye cleaning due to facial structure
- Need consistent grooming despite shorter coat
- May have special dietary needs to maintain healthy weight
10. Birman
Birmans, also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” are striking cats with color point coats and distinctive white “gloves” on their paws. Legend has it that these cats were the companions of temple priests in ancient Burma.
Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Birmans make excellent family pets and get along well with children and other animals.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require regular grooming to maintain their silky coat
- Need lots of attention and interaction
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues
- May have special dietary requirements
11. Russian Blue
Russian Blues are elegant cats with silvery-blue coats and striking green eyes. Originating in the port of Arkhangelsk in Russia, these cats were once the companions of Russian Czars.
Known for their intelligence and reserved nature, Russian Blues form strong bonds with their chosen humans but can be shy around strangers.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Can be sensitive to changes in routine or environment
- Require mental stimulation to prevent boredom
- May develop separation anxiety if left alone too often
- Need regular grooming to maintain their plush coat
12. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are active, curious cats with a distinctive ticked coat that gives them a wild appearance reminiscent of small African wildcats. Despite their name, they were actually developed in Britain.
Known for their high energy levels and love of climbing, Abyssinians are perfect for owners who want an interactive and playful feline companion.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require lots of playtime and exercise
- Need mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues
- May have special dietary needs due to their high activity levels
13. Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex cats are known for their unique curly coat, large ears, and long limbs. First discovered in Cornwall, England in the 1950s, these cats are the result of a natural genetic mutation.
Their short, wavy fur feels like velvet to the touch. Cornish Rexes are known for their playful, kitten-like behavior well into adulthood.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require special care for their delicate coat
- Need protection from extreme temperatures
- Have high energy levels demanding lots of play
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues
14. Devon Rex
Often called “alien cats” due to their large ears and big eyes, Devon Rex cats are another breed resulting from a natural mutation. First discovered in Devon, England in 1960, these cats have a short, wavy coat that’s incredibly soft.
Known for their mischievous nature and love of human companionship, Devon Rexes are often described as a cross between a cat, a dog, and a monkey.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require special care for their delicate, wavy coat
- Need protection from cold temperatures
- Have high energy levels demanding lots of interaction
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues, including heart problems
15. Turkish Angora
Turkish Angoras are elegant cats with silky, medium-length coats. Originating in Turkey, these cats have been treasured for centuries and were once considered sacred by Turkish royalty.
Known for their intelligence and playful nature, Turkish Angoras are active cats that love to climb and explore their surroundings.
Why they’re high-maintenance:
- Require regular grooming to prevent matting
- Need lots of mental stimulation and play
- Can be prone to certain genetic health issues, including deafness in white cats
- May have special dietary requirements
While these 15 cat breeds may require extra attention and care, they offer unparalleled companionship and charm to those willing to put in the effort. Before bringing one of these high-maintenance felines into your home, carefully consider your lifestyle and ability to meet their specific requirements.
With proper care, patience, and love, these demanding but adorable cats can become cherished members of your family, providing years of joy and affection.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.