A recent survey by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) showed that a quarter of all kittens registered in the UK each year are British Shorthairs, making them the most popular pedigreed cat in the country.1 However, the British Shorthair is just one of the many charming breeds that originated in Britain.
Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a seasoned cat lover, these 12 British cat breeeds will surely steal your affection.
1. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair, also known as the British Blue, is one of the oldest and most popular cat breeds in the United Kingdom. These cats are the epitome of British charm with their round, teddy bear-like faces, dense, plush coats, and muscular builds.
Their easygoing nature and affectionate personality make them wonderful family pets that get along well with children and other animals.
While they may not be the most active cats, British Shorthairs still enjoy playtime and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
2. Scottish Fold
With their adorably folded ears and round, owlish expression, Scottish Folds are impossible to resist. This unique breed originated in Scotland in the 1960s as a natural mutation and has since become a beloved companion animal worldwide.
Scottish Folds are known for their sweet, gentle disposition and love of human companionship. They are playful, intelligent cats that retain a kitten-like personality well into adulthood.
While their folded ears are their most distinctive feature, Scottish Folds come in a straight-eared variety called the Scottish Straight.
3. Siamese
The sophisticated Siamese is one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds, with its sleek body, striking blue eyes, and distinctive point coloration. Originating in Thailand (formerly Siam), these cats were first brought to England in the late 19th century and have captivated cat lovers ever since.
Siamese cats are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and vocal nature. They are extremely social animals that crave human interaction and follow their owners around the house, engaging in conversation with their signature loud, raspy meow.
Siamese cats come in various colors, including seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac.
4. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are large, affectionate cats with semi-long coats and striking blue eyes, named for their tendency to go limp when held. These gentle giants were developed in the United States in the 1960s but have since become popular in the UK and worldwide.
They are known for their laid-back, friendly personalities and love of human companionship. They are often described as “puppy-like” in their behavior, following their owners around the house and greeting them at the door.
Despite their size, Ragdolls are incredibly gentle and make wonderful family pets.
5. Cornish Rex
With their curly coats, large ears, and mischievous personalities, Cornish Rexes are truly one-of-a-kind cats. This breed originated in Cornwall, England, in the 1950s as a spontaneous mutation and has been delighting cat lovers with their playful antics ever since.
Cornish Rexes are active, curious cats that love to explore and play. They are highly intelligent and can learn tricks, making them an entertaining and engaging companion.
Their short, wavy coat is soft and has various colors and patterns.
6. Devon Rex
Often confused with their Cornish cousins, Devon Rexes is another curly-coated breed originating in England. These pixie-like cats have large eyes, prominent cheekbones, and oversized ears, giving them an elfin appearance.
Devon Rexes are known for their clownish, mischievous personalities and love of attention. They are active, playful cats that retain a kitten-like demeanor throughout their lives.
They are also highly intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks or walk on a leash.
7. Oriental
The Oriental Shorthair, a sleek and elegant breed, was initially developed in the UK during the 1950s by cat enthusiasts who aimed to produce a feline with the Siamese’s body type and personality but with a wider range of coat colors and patterns.
Orientals are intelligent, social cats that thrive on human companionship. They are vocal like their Siamese cousins and will engage in lengthy conversations with their owners.
They are also active, playful cats that enjoy interactive toys and learning new tricks.
8. Burmilla
The Burmilla is a relatively new British breed, first developed in the 1980s as a cross between Burmese and Chinchilla Persian cats. The result is a stunning cat with a shimmering, silvery coat and expressive green eyes.
They are affectionate, people-oriented cats that love to be involved in everything their owners do. They are playful and energetic but also enjoy quiet cuddle sessions on the couch.
Burmillas get along well with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families.
9. British Longhair
The luxuriously coated British Longhair is a recent addition to the British cat breed lineup, developed by crossing British Shorthairs with long-haired breeds like Persians. These cats have the same round, teddy bear-like features as their short-haired counterparts but with a longer, fluffier coat.
British Longhairs are calm, affectionate cats that make wonderful companions. They are not as active as other breeds but enjoy playtime and interactive toys.
Their long coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats.
10. Havana Brown
The Havana Brown is a rare and striking breed with a rich, chocolate-brown coat and mesmerizing green eyes. Developed in England in the 1950s from crosses between Siamese and domestic black cats, the Havana Brown was named for its resemblance to the color of Havana cigars.
Havana Browns are intelligent, curious cats with a playful streak. They are affectionate with their owners but can be reserved around strangers.
These elegant cats make devoted companions for those lucky enough to share their lives with one another.
11. Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is a unique British feline breed known for its curly, plush coat. These cats were first discovered in Montana in 1987 and were later developed in the UK.
Selkirk Rexes come in long and short-haired varieties, and their coats can be loosely or tightly curled. Despite their curly coats, Selkirk Rexes require minimal grooming and are relatively low-maintenance cats.
They are loving, patient cats that make excellent family pets. They are known for their laid-back attitudes and tolerance of children and pets.
12. York Chocolate
The York Chocolate is a rare British feline breed that originated in New York in the 1980s. These cats are known for their luxurious, chocolate-colored coats and striking golden eyes.
They come in long and short-haired varieties, and their coats can range from milk chocolate to dark chocolate.
York Chocolates are affectionate, loyal cats that bond closely with their humans. They are moderately active and enjoy playtime but are also content to relax in a warm lap.
With proper training, these intelligent British cats can learn tricks and even walk on a leash.
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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.