Popular domestic cat breeds. The list of domestic cat breeds is quite extensive, with each breed distinguished by different characteristics and heritage. Cat breeds are generally divided into: short-haired, semi-long-haired, and long-haired.
Long-haired cats
Long-haired cats first appeared in Europe in the 16th century. Their fur lengthened after years of crossbreeding different breeds. Among long-haired cats, the Persian is the most famous. It is regal and loves tranquility. Its beautiful coat requires daily care.
Short-haired cats
Initially, all domestic cats were short-haired. Only those living in colder regions of the Earth had thicker and longer fur. The Siamese cat originates from Asia. Kittens are born with light-colored fur, but as they grow, their paws and head darken. Siamese cats are very intelligent and impress with their agility.
Tabby cat
Tabbies come in a variety of colors. The classic „spotted“ or „marbled“ cat is the most common. Its patterns are asymmetrical. The „mackerel“ or „striped“ tabby is covered with a series of vertical stripes along its sides, resembling the patterns of a mackerel fish. This type, but with a slightly different spotted pattern, is called a „spotted“ tabby.
Semi-wild lynx cat
Its coloring is similar to the tabby cat, but it is slightly larger in size, with bigger paws and tufts of hair on the tips of its ears, hence its name. In Bulgaria, it is primarily found in the Strandzha Mountain region. It can be relatively easily domesticated, but it is not as affectionate as the typical domestic cat.
Street cat (Ulichna prevoskhodna)
The colloquial term „Street Cat“ has gained popularity in the Bulgarian language, especially among urban populations. It is a collective term for all types of street cats (and dogs), whose breeds cannot be identified due to the numerous crossbreeds.
In street cats, remnants of various breeds can be found, but most are short-haired. Their coloring varies from white to black with many spots and patterns. Street cats reproduce but also die quickly, as no one takes care of them.