Popular Cat Breeds in India are those cat breeds that are most commonly seen in Indian households. They are also most suitable to Indian environment and adapt well with the seasonal temperature variations in India. Let’s look at the 7 most Popular Cat Breeds in India, their lifespan, appearance, nature, temperament and more.

 

1) Indian billi or spotted cat-

Indian Billi or Spotted Cat is the formal name of stray cats you see on roads in India. They can be found in households as well and do well in domestic environment.

Appearance- They have a sleek & muscular built with spotted or marbled coat.

Lifespan- With proper care and a comfortable environment, these cats can live up to 18 years. However, most stray cats do not survive that long due to road accidents, unattended illness and other factors.

Temperament- Like every other cat, they are inquisitive in nature. They are also very active and independent. If domesticated,stray cats can be very affectionate and loyal.

 

2) Bengal Cat-

Bengal cats are

Appearance: Bengal cats have a wild appearance. They have longer rear legs and the golden shimmer on their coat comes from their leopard cat ancestry. Their coats usually have spots, rosette or arrowhead markings. The colour of their coat varies from brown spotted, silver, Sepia, Mink spotted etc.

Lifespan: Lifespan of bengal cats can vary between 12-15 years depending on the amount of care they receive. Their diet also plays an important role in it.

Temperament: Bengal cats are smart, energetic and playful. They are said to naturally retrieve items, and enjoy playing in water.

3) Persian Cat-

Persian cat is a long-haired cat breed with long fluffy hair, short legs and round face. They are also known as Persian longhairs.

Appearance: Two types of Persian cats are common in Indian households- Punch face and Doll face. Persian cats are medium to large in size and they have a cute, doll like appearance. They are found in multiple colours like Grey, Brown, White, Black and Golden.

Lifespan: Persians usually have a lifespan of 12-17 years. A healthy Persian may also live upto 20 years.

Temperament: Persians are very friendly and affectionate cats. They love to play and cuddle with their hooman. They are relatively quite and independent cats. However, they love to be around their hooman.

4) Maine Coon

Maine coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in India. The breed originated in the U.S state of Maine but they are popular as domestic cat breeds all over the world.

Appearance: They have a muscular,long, rectangular body with a broad chest. They come in different colours like Black, Grey, Brown/Chocolate/Sable, Cream/ Beige, Red/ Orange.

Lifespan: Average lifespan of Maine Coon is 12.5- 15 years. However, many pet owners claim to have shared upto 20 years of their life with their Maine Coons.

Temperament: Maine coons are usually friendly with other cats,dogs, children. They are easy to train cats with high energy drive and playfulness.

5) Bombay Cat

Bombay cat is a short hair cat breed with a panther-like sleek, black coat.

Appearance: The most distinguishable feature of Bombay Cats is their all black coat with copper or gold eyes.

Lifespan: Lifespan of bombay cats vary between 9-15 years

Temperament:  Bombay cats are highly intelligent, affectionate and sociable cats. They are highly playful & good with other cats, other family members and also senior citizens.

6) Siamese

The Siamese is a long, elegant cat breed, with a body of long built and long neck.

Appearance: Their striking blue eyes, sleek & elegant body with long legs and glossy coat are some of most prominent  features of Siamese cats. The colour of their coat can be dark / chocolate brown, Lilac, Blue and Red.

Lifespan: The average lifespan of Siamese cat is 15 years. Though some can also survive upto 20 years.

Temperament: Siamese Cats are friendly, affectionate, outgoing & social in nature.They are highly intelligent and hence easily trainable.

7) Himalayan Cat

Himalayan Cats look like a mixture of Persian and Siamese Cat breeds.They are fluffy, long-haired, vocal cats.

Appearance: They have brilliant blue eyes and the colorpoint markings of a Siamese. With creamy body colour and darker face colour on face,ears,feet and tail. They mostly come in creamy white colour with dark brown or coral pink nose leather & paw pads.

Lifespan: The average lifespan of Himalayan Cats vary from 9-15 years.

Temperament: Himalayan cats are  very calm and devoted to their hoomans. They are sociable but prefer quiet households.

Please Note:  Cats of any breed and colour are loyal and affectionate companions. These breed specific details are only for you to be aware of your cat’s habit, temperament etc so that you know what to expect from them. Just like stray dogs, there are plenty of stray cats roaming around the streets. If you are well equipped to take care of at least one of them, please do consider giving them a home.