10 Semi-Longhaired and Long-Haired Cat Breeds

There are many long-haired cat breeds, each of which is the result of centuries of selective breeding. Many of these cats are very similar in appearance, as they are often cross-bred to produce new breeds.

Cat coats can be divided into three separate categories: long, semi-long and short. The Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) is responsible for classifying breeds according to international standards.

In this article, we want to show you some of the most popular long and semi-longhaired cat breeds.

Long-haired cats

Long-haired Persian

The long-haired Persian (pictured at the beginning of this article) is a medium-sized cat that can weigh up to 17.5lb. They have large, wide heads, with a small, flat nose and large round eyes. They have short legs, and thick, bushy tails.

This laid back, sociable and affectionate breed has long, dense, soft fur, that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. They come in a variety of colors, such as white, ginger and blue…

Persians are prone to a number of health issues, such as renal insufficiency and infertility. It’s also important to keep a close eye on their weight, as obesity can lead to many serious health problems.

Himalayan

This British breed is a descendant of the Persian, and bears a close resemblance to its ancestor. However, their coloring is more like that of a Siamese.

American curl

This is a relatively new breed, that first emerged back in the 1980s. Their most distinctive feature is their unusual ears, which curl back away from their face.

Siberian forest cat

The Siberian forest cat is a large, strong breed, which – as the name suggests – originally comes from Russia. Their fur is dense, keeping out the cold and damp. They usually have brown tabby coats, although they also come in a variety of other colors.

The Siberian forest cat is sociable and affectionate. This is a very intelligent and agile breed, that loves climbing and playing in water.

Semi-longhaired cats

While their fur is slightly shorter than that of long-haired cat breeds, semi-longhaired cats still require regular brushing.

Maine coon

The Maine coon is one of the largest breeds in the world, and can weigh anything from 8.5 to 22 lbs. Their lynx-like ears are one of their most distinctive features.

Maine coons are laid-back, sociable, affectionate and playful cats that easily adapt to new environments. These active cats need plenty of outdoor space, as they love climbing and exploring.

Norwegian forest cat

Another large breed, the Norwegian forest cat can weigh up to 19.5 lbs, and is an active and curious breed. It’s very similar to the Maine coon in appearance.

Birman

Also known as the sacred cat of Burma, the Birman is a laid-back, playful and sociable breed, that hates being left alone. All Birmans have color-pointed coats and white socks, while their eyes are a deep blue.

Ragdoll

The Ragdoll was originally produced by crossing an Angora with a Birman, from which it has inherited its stunning blue eyes. While Ragdolls closely resemble the Birman in appearance, they are very different in terms of personality. The Ragdoll is a docile, sociable and affectionate breed that loves spending time with people.

Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras are usually white in color. They often have heterochromia, with one blue eye, and one green. These cats are calm, playful and sociable creatures, and are known for their love of water. They require plenty of space to roam and play.

Somali

Somali cats have a soft, thick coat, with tufts of fur sprouting from their large, pointed ears. They have striking golden-brown fur, and large almond eyes.

The Somali is a strong, medium-sized cat. Like many of the cats we’ve looked at in this article, it is an active and energetic breed.

If you’re thinking about adopting a long-haired cat, remember that its coat will need regular grooming. Getting them used to brushes from an early age will make it far easier for you to groom them when they’re older.