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20 Popular Cat Breeds in India: Which Cat Breed Should You Adopt?

by Vetic Editorial
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We are all aware of the popular and fancy dog breeds found in India and across the world. However, when it comes to cats, we often consider 3-4 known breeds including the Indian Mau, Persian, Himalayan and Siamese. If you are thinking of adopting a cat in India, you should know about these 10 super popular cat breeds in India that are suitable for the Indian climate. And about the 10 cat breeds that are popular in India but highly unsuitable for our climate. 

Most cats are sturdy and healthy, but a few breeds are also prone to more genetic disorders and congenital issues as compared to the others. You should know all about the maintenance, health risks, nutritional needs and climate suitability of your desired cat breeds before you bring a kitten home.

Here, you can find a complete guide that can help you decide which breed is ideal for you and your lifestyle. 

Popular Cat Breeds Suitable in India for Our Climate

  1. Indian Billi (Desi Cat)
  2. Bengal Cat
  3. Siamese Cat
  4. Bombay Cat
  5. Abyssinian Cat
  6. Oriental Shorthair
  7. Egyptian Mau
  8. American Shorthair
  9. Russian Blue
  10. Devon Rex

Popular Cat Breeds in India that are Unsuitable for the Indian Climate

  1. Persian Cat
  2. Maine Coon
  3. Himalayan Cat
  4. British Shorthair
  5. Scottish Fold
  6. Ragdoll Cat
  7. Norwegian Forest Cat
  8. Turkish Angora
  9. Birman Cat
  10. Sphynx Cat

Consider the Weather While Considering Cat Breeds in India for Adoption

When looking at cat breeds, you should consider the Indian climate and the weather conditions of the city or state you live in. For example, Mumbai is much more humid as compared to Delhi NCR, and Mussoorie can be cooler than either of these places even during peak summer months.

So, the choice of breed will be influenced by where you stay, whether you have air conditioning and the accessibility of veterinary care. If you live in hotter cities, short-haired cats like the Indie Mau (Indian Billi), Bombay Cat, Siamese, or Egyptian Mau may be ideal choices. 

If you live in a cooler city or have the facility of 24/7 air conditioning, you can consider long-haired and double-coated cat breeds such as the Himalayan, Persian or even Maine Coon.

In the next two tables, you will be able to understand the coat types, maintenance and grooming requirements of 20 popular cat breeds found in India. 

Everything You Need to Know about 10 Popular Cat Breeds in India Suitable for the Indian Climate

10 popular cat breeds in India suitable for the Indian Climate. The Indian Billi, or Desi Cat, is a small to medium-sized cat weighing 3 to 5 kilograms, with a short, single coat that sheds minimally all year round. They require very little grooming and are commonly seen in brown, grey, black, orange, and white. Bengal Cats are medium to large in size, weighing 4 to 7 kilograms, with a short, soft coat that sheds minimally year-round. They need occasional grooming and are typically found in spotted or marbled patterns like brown, snow, or silver. Siamese Cats weigh between 3 and 6 kilograms and are small to medium in size. They have a short, fine coat that sheds moderately all year round and need low grooming maintenance. They are usually cream or fawn with black, brown, or grey points. Bombay Cats are medium-sized cats, weighing 2.5 to 5 kilograms, with a short, sleek black coat that sheds minimally and is easy to maintain. Abyssinian Cats are small to medium cats, weighing 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms, with a short, fine ticked coat that sheds lightly and seasonally. They need minimal grooming and are commonly golden brown with darker tips. Oriental Shorthairs weigh 3 to 5 kilograms and are medium in size, with a short, sleek coat that sheds lightly all year round and requires little grooming. They come in a wide range of colours including white, grey, tabby, black, and chocolate. Egyptian Maus are small to medium cats, weighing 3.5 to 5 kilograms, with a short, spotted coat that sheds seasonally and needs occasional grooming. Their common coat colours include silver, bronze, and smoke. American Shorthairs are medium to large cats weighing 4 to 6 kilograms. They have a short, dense coat that sheds seasonally and needs moderate grooming. Their coat colours include silver tabby, black, white, brown, and cream. Russian Blues are medium-sized cats, weighing 3.5 to 6 kilograms, with a short, plush double coat that sheds lightly all year round and needs occasional grooming. Their typical colour is silvery-blue or grey. Lastly, Devon Rex cats are small cats weighing 2.5 to 4 kilograms, with a short, soft, curly coat that sheds very little all year round. They need minimal grooming and are often found in colours like black, white, orange, or Siamese-patterned.

About The Top 10 Popular Cat Breeds in India Suitable for the Indian Climate

1. Indian Billi (Desi Cat or Indie Mau)

This image showcases the cat breed - Indian Billi (Desi Cat), a native breed commonly found across India. The cat, perched on a wooden surface, has a striking striped coat with shades of gray and black, reflecting its natural agility and adaptability. Its lean, muscular build is a testament to the breed’s survival skills, making it highly efficient in navigating urban and rural environments. The Indian Billi is well-suited to India's climate, thanks to its short coat, which requires minimal grooming. These cats are independent, intelligent, and excellent hunters, thriving both in households and in the wild. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them great companions. The background of lush green ivy leaves adds a beautiful contrast to the cat’s neutral-toned fur, emphasizing its keen, focused gaze as it looks off-camera. This moment perfectly captures the essence of the Indian Billi—alert, resourceful, and effortlessly elegant.

Indian Billi also known as the Indie Mau, Desi Cat or Spotted Cat is by far the best suited breed for all Indian climates and weather conditions. They can tolerate high temperatures and humidity due to their short coat and sturdy constitution

They have evolved for centuries as per the Indian climate conditions. You can see them on the streets, and in people’s homes. Although they are independent and low-maintenance, they require significant human interaction when kept as indoor pets. 

They are moderate to high energy cats with an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years. 

2. Bengal Cat

the Bengal Cat, a cat breed renowned for its striking spotted and marbled coat that gives it a wild, exotic appearance. The cat’s coat is a blend of rich golden and brown hues, with dark rosettes that resemble those of leopards, reinforcing its resemblance to its wild ancestors. Bengal Cats are known for their high energy, intelligence, and playful nature, making them excellent companions for active households. Their short, sleek coat requires minimal grooming and is well-suited to India’s climate. They are extremely agile and love climbing, often seeking high perches to survey their surroundings. The plain, light-colored background in this image enhances the cat’s natural beauty, drawing full attention to its vibrant eyes and intricate markings. The “Vetic” logo in the corner and the “Bengal Cat” label neatly frame the image, making it a standout feature for your blog on popular cat breeds in India.

Don’t be fooled by the name. They are not from Bengal, but they have the coat pattern similar to the large Bengal cats. The Bengal Cat breed is a popular breed in India now, but they were created in the US by crossing the Asian Leopard Cat with other domestic cat breeds. 

They are super high-energy cats who require intense play time. They are friendly, independent and playful. They require minimal grooming due to their short coat and low shedding. Many claim the Bengal Cat breed to be a hypoallergenic cat breed. 

The Bengal cat breed is predisposed to quite a few health conditions including HCM, Bengal progressive retinal atrophy and ulcerative nasal dermatitis. The breed has an average life expectancy of 9 to 12 years.

3. Siamese Cat

the Siamese Cat, a cay breed renowned for its distinctive color points and striking blue eyes. The cat is comfortably lying on a light-colored carpet, creating a soft contrast that enhances its elegant appearance. Its dark ears, face, paws, and tail stand out against its creamy body, a signature trait of the breed’s unique coat pattern. Siamese Cats are social, vocal, and intelligent, known for forming strong bonds with their families. Their short, sleek coat is low-maintenance, making them well-suited for various climates. They thrive on interaction and love engaging with people, often following their owners around the house.

The Siamese cat is an Asian breed of cat which is native

to Thailand. They are popular for their distinctive blue eyes, black extremities and face (point colouration). The point colouration in Siamese cats can darken or fade over the years depending on their ambient temperature. 

The Siamese cat breed is extremely affectionate, intelligent and social. They are the “extroverts” of the feline world. They often choose to be beside their humans rather than hunt. 

Siamese cats have a predisposition to progressive retinal atrophy, alopecia, cancer and FLUTD. The average lifespan of Siamese cats is around 10 years. 

4. Bombay Cat

the Bombay Cat, a cat breed known for its sleek black fur and striking yellow eyes. The cat sits gracefully against a backdrop of lush green leaves, with its intense gaze adding an air of mystery and elegance. Its short, glossy coat gleams in the light, emphasizing the breed’s resemblance to a miniature black panther. Bombay Cats are affectionate, intelligent, and highly social, making them fantastic companions. Their smooth, low-maintenance fur allows them to adapt well to India's climate, requiring minimal grooming. They thrive in interactive environments, often forming strong bonds with their families. The “Vetic” logo in the top left corner reinforces the image’s purpose in the blog on popular cat breeds in India, while the “Bombay Cat” label in the bottom right ensures clarity in identification.

Bombay Cats are named after the city (Bombay, now Mumbai). They are completely black in color with yellow to copper-golden eyes. These short-haired, muscular cats are spritely with a high hunting drive. 

They are highly social cats with strong attachment to their humans. Some may also consider them attention seekers! They are the perfect cat breed for families who desire an interactive but strictly indoor cat.

They are medium-sized cats who weigh between 2.5 and 5 kg. They are typically healthy with an average life expectancy of at least 15 years. The only noted health risks of Bombay cats are sinus problems and gingivitis. 

5. Abyssinian Cat

the Abyssinian Cat, a cat breed known for its sleek, short coat and expressive eyes. The cat is lounging on a brown surface, appearing relaxed while gazing off to the side. Its reddish-brown fur, coupled with large pointed ears and striking yellow eyes, embodies the breed’s elegant and inquisitive nature. Abyssinian Cats are high-energy, intelligent, and highly interactive, making them great companions. Their short, ticked coat requires minimal grooming, making them well-suited for warmer climates. They enjoy exploring and climbing, often showing an active and playful demeanor.

The Abyssinian cat breed is characterized by their ticked coat. They rose to popularity only recently – around 2016. The Abyssinian cats are longer, and leaner compared to other cat breeds mentioned in this list. 

They have a unique personality rarely seen in other breeds – they love human companionship and shadow their humans around the house. They are active, explorative and super playful, which often leads to their comparison with dogs.

The health concerns of the Abyssinian cat breed includes familial renal amyloidosis, FIP, blindness and feline atopic dermatitis.

6. Oriental Shorthair

the Oriental Shorthair, a breed distinguished by its sleek, short-haired coat, large ears, and striking yellow eyes. The cat’s dark, marbled pattern adds to its exotic and elegant appearance. Standing on a light-colored, cushioned surface, it exudes a poised and refined presence. Oriental Shorthairs are known for their high intelligence, curiosity, and playful energy, making them ideal companions for interactive households. Their short, fine coat is low-maintenance and suited to warmer climates, requiring minimal grooming while showcasing their unique beauty. They thrive on social interactions and form strong bonds with their families.

The Oriental Shorthair breed is closely related to the Siamese breed. While their facial features and physical appearance are similar to Siamese, they come in a multitude of colours ranging from pure white to classic tabby. 

Their eyes can be blue, green or yellow. Their roots are in Thailand but the Oriental Shorthair breed was developed in the US in the 70s. 

The Oriental Shorthair cat breed are considered “talkative”, curious, high energy and mobile. They are perfect for expert pet parents who have experience with the feline family. 

7. Egyptian Mau

This image beautifully captures the Egyptian Mau, a rare and ancient cat breed known for its natural spotted coat and exceptional agility. The cat is lying gracefully on a rock, showcasing its sleek silver fur adorned with distinct black spots, a hallmark of this breed. Its striking yellow eyes are sharp and alert, embodying the breed’s keen hunting instincts. Egyptian Maus are highly intelligent and active, thriving in environments where they have space to explore and play. Their short, fine coat makes them well-suited for India’s climate, requiring minimal grooming while maintaining their elegance. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, often following their owners around the house. The light gray background contrasts subtly with the cat’s coat, allowing its unique markings to stand out. The presence of the “Vetic” logo adds a professional touch to the image, reinforcing its place in your blog on popular cat breeds in India.

This is an Egyptian breed of domestic cats that have natural spots. They are usually small to medium in size. They are considered the fastest of all domestic cat breeds. The Egyptian Mau is still a rare breed but their popularity is rising rapidly due to their cute looks and great overall health.

They have a high occurrence rate of bladder stones. But they are considered healthy and low-maintenance as compared to other cat breeds such as Persian, Himalayan and Maine Coon. 

However, they are high energy cats who require a lot of playtime and human interaction. They are friendly and fairly easy to train. With the right care, they can live up to 15 years.

Did you know? 

While the gestation period for most domesticated cats is around 64 to 67 days, the Egyptian Mau has a gestation period of 73 days!

8. American Shorthair

the American Shorthair, a cat breed renowned for its silver tabby coat with bold black stripes and striking green eyes. The cat sits confidently on a perch, surveying its surroundings with a calm yet observant expression. Its strong, muscular build reflects the breed’s history as a skilled hunter and adaptable companion. American Shorthairs are low-maintenance and well-suited for various climates, thanks to their dense, short coat, which provides protection while requiring minimal grooming. They are affectionate yet independent, making them great pets for families looking for a friendly but not overly demanding feline companion. The light background and blurred focus create a beautiful contrast, allowing the silver tabby pattern to stand out.

In 2020, the American Shorthair was the 8th most popular cat breed in the world. They are popular for their super cute look – larger head, almost round eyes, short nose and stocky build. Their short coat makes them popular among parents who can’t groom their cats every day!

The American Shorthair can be brown-patched/blotched, or tones of brown, black, white and even silver. Sadly, a genetic mutation has linked feline polycystic kidney disease to the American shorthair cat breeds. 

Their short coat, sturdy health and tolerance for heat make them quite suitable for the Indian climate. The average life expectancy of American Shorthair cat breeds is around 18 to 20 years. 

9. Russian Blue

the Russian Blue, a cat breed admired for its sleek, bluish-gray coat and striking yellow-green eyes. The cat is captured mid-walk on a lush green lawn, moving gracefully towards the camera. Its short, dense fur appears soft and well-groomed, reflecting the breed’s reputation for having one of the most luxurious coats among shorthair cats. Russian Blues are intelligent, quiet, and deeply loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. Their double-layered coat requires minimal grooming, yet provides them with excellent insulation, making them adaptable to different climates. They are known for their reserved yet affectionate nature, often seeking attention on their own terms. The blurred background featuring a bench and greenery subtly frames the cat’s elegant stance

The Russian Blue cat breed has become increasingly popular even in India due to its distinct silvery to dark bluish gray colour. They have a short coat and pale blue or yellow eyes. Although named Russian Blue, the current breed we see today were bred after the second World War in the US. 

They are distinctly quiet and reserved cats. They do not prefer being around strangers. They are not “talkers”. However, they are natural predators with oodles of energy. They like to leap and climb. So if you are planning to adopt a Russian Blue in India, get ready to set up a cat jungle gym or at least a cat tree!

Due to outbreeding in the 1940s, most Russian Blue cats are quite healthy and do not show high predisposition to genetic diseases and disorders. Their average lifespan is around 15 years with some cat parents reporting their cats reaching the age of 25 years.

10. Devon Rex

the Devon Rex, a cat breed known for its distinctive curly fur and large ears, giving it an elfin appearance. The cat is sitting comfortably on a soft bed, with a window in the background offering a glimpse of blurred scenery outside, adding depth and warmth to the image. The Devon Rex has a short, fine coat that makes it well-suited for India’s climate, requiring minimal grooming. These cats are playful, intelligent, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their high energy levels make them fantastic companions for interactive play, and they are known to enjoy perching on shoulders. The placement of the “Vetic” logo in the corner adds a professional touch, reinforcing its role in your blog on popular cat breeds in India.

Known for their curiously large ears and eyes, the Devon Rex is a short-haired and wavy coated cat that originated in England. Their pixie-like appearance has made them super popular with cat lovers across the world. 

Their colours can range from black and orange, to spotted and Siamese colourings. They are usually playful and love playing with their peers. They can be curious, explorative and highly trainable. 

They are quite suitable for tropical weather although they are predisposed to a number of skin conditions including feline atopic dermatitis and Malazzesia (yeast). Their expected lifespan is usually between 14 and 17 years. 

Details of the 10 Popular Cat Breeds in India Not Suited for the Indian Climate

10 popular cat breeds in India unsuitable for the Indian Climate. The Persian Cat is a small to medium-sized breed weighing between 3 and 5.5 kilograms, with a long, dense coat that sheds heavily and needs daily grooming; it comes in colors like white, cream, black, grey, and chocolate and is highly sensitive to heat. The Maine Coon is a large cat, weighing 5.5 to 8 kilograms or more, with a thick, double coat that sheds seasonally and needs frequent grooming; it appears in colors such as brown tabby, cream, black, and white, and struggles in hot climates. Himalayan Cats weigh between 3.5 and 6 kilograms and have a long, silky coat similar to Persians, with heavy shedding, daily grooming needs, and point colorations like cream, grey, and chocolate; they are not suited for warm weather. British Shorthairs weigh 4 to 7 kilograms and have a thick short coat that sheds moderately to heavily, needing weekly brushing; they come in blue-grey, cream, white, black, and golden, and can be uncomfortable in Indian heat. Scottish Folds weigh between 2.5 and 6 kilograms, have a short, dense coat with moderate shedding, need occasional grooming, and come in colors like blue, lilac, and white; their health issues may worsen in hot climates. Ragdolls are large cats, weighing 4 to 9 kilograms, with semi-long silky fur that sheds moderately and requires frequent grooming; they are typically cream, lilac, grey, or chocolate and are prone to overheating. Norwegian Forest Cats weigh 4.5 to 8 kilograms, with a thick double-layered coat that sheds heavily and needs regular grooming; they appear in white, tabby, cream, and black and are adapted to cold climates, making them unsuitable for Indian heat. Turkish Angoras weigh 2.5 to 5 kilograms and have medium to long silky fur that sheds moderately and needs regular brushing; they are usually white or found in cream, grey, and black and are prone to heat stress and genetic conditions. Birman Cats weigh 3 to 5.5 kilograms, have a long soft coat that sheds moderately and needs weekly grooming, are commonly cream, grey, lilac, or chocolate with white paws, and are sensitive to warm climates. Lastly, the Sphynx Cat, weighing 3 to 6 kilograms, is hairless but prone to sunburn, skin infections, and overheating; it requires daily cleaning and comes in colors like pink, peach, grey, and black, making it high-maintenance in hot and humid conditions.

10 Popular Cat Breeds in India and Why They aren’t Suitable for the Indian Climate

11. Persian Cat

the Persian Cat, a breed celebrated for its long, luxurious coat and signature flat-faced appearance. The cat stands gracefully on a grey surface, raising one paw in what seems to be a curious or playful gesture. Its fluffy white fur, accented with light orange shading on the ears, paws, and tail, creates a soft and refined look. Persian Cats are known for their gentle, calm temperament, making them affectionate and relaxed companions. Their dense coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it looking pristine. These cats thrive in quiet, comfortable environments, where they can enjoy lounging and human attention. The grey background subtly complements the cat's coat, allowing its rich texture to stand out.

The Persian cat is one of the most recognizable breeds, originally from Persia (modern-day Iran). They have long, thick coats, flat faces, and large, expressive eyes. Their gentle and laid-back personality makes them great lap cats, but they are not very active.

Persians require extensive grooming due to their long fur, which is prone to matting. They are also prone to respiratory issues, eye infections, and polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

Their thick coat makes them prone to overheating in hot and humid climates. Additionally, their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure can cause breathing difficulties in extreme temperatures.

12. Maine Coon

This image beautifully captures the cat breed - Maine Coon, a breed known for its large size, long fur, and bushy tail. The cat is lounging on a cat tree, comfortably draping one of its paws over the edge, giving it a relaxed and confident posture. Its striking green eyes add to its regal presence, contrasting beautifully against its rich brown and black coat. The background is light-colored, making the cat stand out and emphasizing its impressive features. The Maine Coon is a fairly adaptable breed for India's climate, although its thick fur requires regular grooming to prevent overheating and matting. These cats are gentle giants, known for their social, affectionate, and intelligent nature, making them fantastic companions. They enjoy climbing and exploring, so a cat tree is an ideal spot for them to lounge and observe their surroundings.

Originating from the cold forests of North America, the Maine Coon is a giant breed known for its luxurious long fur, tufted ears, and bushy tail. They are affectionate, playful, and highly intelligent, making them excellent family pets.

Despite their size and strength, Maine Coons are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), hip dysplasia, and spinal muscular atrophy. They are high-energy cats that require plenty of space to move.

Why are Maine Coon cats unsuitable for India? Their thick, water-resistant double coat is designed for harsh winters, making them prone to overheating in warm climates. They also require frequent grooming, which can be challenging in humid regions.

13. Himalayan Cat

the Himalayan Cat, a stunning cat breed known for its distinctive colorpoint pattern and luxurious fur. The cat walks gracefully along a dirt path surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its serene and majestic appearance. Its striking blue eyes immediately draw attention, standing out against the dark facial mask, ears, paws, and tail, which contrast beautifully with its soft, creamy coat. Himalayan Cats are gentle, affectionate, and calm, making them fantastic companions. Their long, fluffy fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting, especially in warm climates. While they can adapt to India’s environment, keeping them cool and well-groomed is essential for their comfort. The backdrop of lush greenery enhances the cat’s tranquil demeanor, making this image an excellent representation of the breed’s elegance and beauty.

A cross between the Persian and Siamese breeds, the Himalayan cat has a long, dense coat with point coloration and striking blue eyes. They are calm, affectionate, and prefer a quiet environment.

Like Persians, Himalayans are prone to breathing issues due to their flat faces. They also have a higher risk of kidney disease, heart problems, and eye infections.

Their thick fur makes them highly vulnerable to heat, and they require air-conditioned environments to stay comfortable. Their grooming needs are also extensive, making them a high-maintenance breed in hot and humid regions.

14. British Shorthair

the British Shorthair, a cat breed known for its dense, plush coat and round, expressive eyes. The cat, sitting gracefully against a dark background, has a stunning grey fur that contrasts beautifully with its vivid orange eyes—a signature trait of the breed. Its calm and composed expression reflects the British Shorthair’s gentle, affectionate nature. British Shorthairs are adaptable and easygoing, making them excellent pets for families. Their short, thick coat requires minimal grooming, though occasional brushing keeps it in top condition. They tend to be independent yet loving, enjoying quiet companionship rather than being overly demanding. The “Vetic” logo in the top left corner and the pink label identifying the breed add a professional touch, reinforcing its place in the blog on popular cat breeds in India.

Originally from the UK, the British Shorthair is a stocky, medium-to-large cat with a plush, dense coat. They are calm, independent, and affectionate but not overly clingy.

They are generally a hardy breed but can suffer from obesity, heart disease, and polycystic kidney disease. Their short yet thick fur sheds year-round and requires regular grooming.

Despite having short fur, their dense undercoat retains heat, making them prone to overheating. They are also not as active as other breeds, which can lead to weight gain in warmer climates.

15. Scottish Fold

This image beautifully highlights the Scottish Fold, a cat breed recognized for its distinctive folded ears and round, expressive eyes. The cat, lounging on a flat surface, has a light orange coat adorned with darker stripes, giving it a warm, golden glow. Its large, round eyes enhance its gentle and inquisitive expression, making it look both curious and calm. Scottish Folds are known for their sweet, affectionate temperament, often forming strong bonds with their families. Their dense, plush coat requires moderate grooming, ensuring they stay comfortable in warmer climates. They are quiet and adaptable, thriving in homes where they receive ample attention and care.

The Scottish Fold, famous for its folded ears, originated in Scotland. They have round faces, expressive eyes, and a sweet, affectionate nature. They enjoy human interaction but are not highly energetic.

They are prone to joint and cartilage disorders, such as osteochondrodysplasia, which affects their mobility. They also have a higher risk of heart disease and obesity.

Their dense fur makes them uncomfortable in hot climates. Additionally, their genetic predisposition to bone issues can worsen in extreme temperatures.

16. Ragdoll Cat

the Ragdoll Cat, a breed adored for its silky, semi-long fur and striking blue eyes. The cat stands gracefully on a brick pathway, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene, picturesque setting. Its soft white coat, complemented by darker markings on its ears and tail, enhances its elegant and gentle demeanor. Ragdoll Cats are affectionate, laid-back, and highly sociable, often forming strong bonds with their families. Their plush coat requires moderate grooming, ensuring it stays free of tangles and maintains its luxurious softness. They are known for their docile nature, often relaxing into their owner’s arms with their signature “floppy” posture. The brick wall and greenery in the background add depth to the composition, subtly complementing the cat’s calming presence.

Developed in the US, the Ragdoll is known for its striking blue eyes, semi-long coat, and docile nature. They are affectionate, enjoy being carried, and are highly social.

They have a genetic predisposition to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and bladder stones. Their relaxed nature also makes them less capable of defending themselves if let outdoors.

Their thick fur makes them prone to overheating, and they require cool indoor environments. They also shed heavily, requiring regular grooming, which can be challenging in humid conditions.

17. Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat, a cat breed known for its long, thick, and fluffy coat that helps it withstand harsh Nordic winters. The cat’s fur is a stunning mix of dark and light gray, adding to its majestic presence. Standing confidently on grassy and slightly rocky terrain, the cat looks right at home in the outdoors, reinforcing its reputation as a skilled climber and an adventurous feline. Norwegian Forest Cats have a dense double-layer coat, making them less suited to India's warm climate. Keeping them comfortable requires consistent grooming to prevent matting and ensuring they stay in cool, well-ventilated spaces. This breed is affectionate but independent, often forming strong bonds with its family while enjoying moments of solitude.

This ancient Scandinavian breed has a dense, waterproof double coat that protects it from freezing temperatures. They are large, muscular cats with tufted ears and a thick ruff of fur around their neck.

The Norwegian Forest Cats are independent, intelligent, and playful. However, they are prone to heart disease, hip dysplasia, and glycogen storage disease.

Their thick coat, designed for harsh winters, causes discomfort in hot climates. They require regular grooming to prevent matting, which can be difficult in humid regions.

18. Turkish Angora

the Turkish Angora, a cat breed admired for its silky, fine coat and elegant build. The cat’s striking heterochromia—one blue eye and one amber eye—adds to its mystique, making it particularly eye-catching. Its pure white fur, well-groomed and soft, reflects the breed’s graceful demeanor and athletic nature. Turkish Angoras are known for their intelligence, playful spirit, and affectionate personality, making them excellent companions. Their single-layer coat requires minimal grooming, though occasional brushing helps maintain its pristine texture. They are social and highly interactive, often forming strong bonds with their families. The backdrop of a soft, blurred interior setting, likely near a window, adds a tranquil and refined atmosphere to the image.

One of the oldest natural breeds, the Turkish Angora is a slender, elegant cat with a long, silky coat. They are intelligent, active, and enjoy socializing with their humans.

They are prone to hereditary ataxia (a neurological disorder) and deafness, especially in white-coated individuals with blue eyes.

Their long coat can make them prone to overheating, and they require regular grooming. They are also highly active cats, which can lead to exhaustion in hot weather.

19. Birman Cat

This image showcases the Birman Cat, a cat breed known for its silky fur, striking blue eyes, and distinctive color points on the face, ears, paws, and tail. The cat is resting on a soft, grey rug, with its fluffy tail elegantly positioned beside it. Though the cat’s face is blurred, its luxurious coat and well-groomed paws reflect its graceful nature. Birman Cats are gentle, affectionate, and sociable, making them excellent companions. Their medium-length coat requires moderate grooming, as it’s less prone to matting compared to other long-haired breeds. They are known for their calm demeanor and strong bonds with their families, often seeking out human company. The background featuring a white column and a beige couch adds a cozy, warm atmosphere to the image, complementing the breed’s serene disposition. The “Vetic” logo in the top left corner

Originating from Burma (Myanmar), the Birman cat has a medium-length coat, blue eyes, and a gentle personality. They are affectionate, friendly, and enjoy human company.

They are generally healthy but can suffer from kidney disease, heart issues, and obesity. Their coat does not mat as easily as other long-haired breeds, but it still requires grooming.

Although their fur is less dense than Persians or Maine Coons, it still makes them prone to heat stress. Their sociable nature also means they prefer indoor environments with a controlled climate.

20. Sphynx Cat

the Sphynx Cat, a breed renowned for its hairless, wrinkled skin and large, bat-like ears. The cat is lying comfortably on a bed, basking in the warm glow of natural light streaming through a window in the background. Its smooth, peach-toned skin contrasts elegantly with the soft bedding, adding to its unique and striking presence. Sphynx Cats are affectionate, playful, and highly social, often craving human companionship. Due to their lack of fur, they require regular skin care, including bathing to prevent oil buildup. Their high metabolism keeps them warm, but they may need extra protection in cooler temperatures.

Unlike the other breeds on this list, the Sphynx is hairless and was developed in Canada. They have large ears, wrinkled skin, and an affectionate, playful nature.

Due to their lack of fur, they have a high metabolic rate and require frequent feeding. They are prone to heart disease, skin infections, and dental issues.

While their lack of fur may seem ideal for hot climates, Sphynx cats have sensitive skin that is easily sunburned. They require sunscreen or protective clothing if exposed to the sun, making them high-maintenance in warm regions.

Should You Adopt a Popular Cat Breed in India?

Whether you’re looking for a playful companion, a low-maintenance buddy, or a social lap cat, there’s a breed out there that matches your lifestyle. From the resilient Indian Billi to the affectionate Siamese and energetic Bengal, India is home to a wide range of cat breeds that thrive in our climate and living conditions. 

While exotic breeds may look adorable, it’s important to choose a cat that can adapt well to the Indian weather and requires care that you’re ready to provide.

Before bringing home a cat, always consult a veterinarian or pet expert to understand the breed’s health needs, grooming requirements, and personality traits. And remember—regardless of breed, every cat deserves love, care, and a safe home.

Looking to adopt? Start with breeds that are naturally suited to the Indian climate like the Indian Cat or Indie Mau. They’re not just easier to care for—they’re also more likely to live long, healthy lives by your side.

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