Discover the 18 Rarest Cat Breeds That Are Hard to Find

Discover the 18 Rarest Cat Breeds That Are Hard to Find

Where in your life have you encountered rare cat breeds?

Though these cats belong to the 45 pedigree breeds approved by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), chances are low that you have seen them anywhere—unless you visit cat events often.

That is so because the United States lacks many of them. Furthermore, as they are mostly show cats, you usually won’t see them pursuing birds in the backyard or tanning themselves on the front porch. The good news is that you can still appreciate the beauty of these uncommon breeds since there are cute images of these kitties!

From the small to the enormous and from the black to the long-haired kittens, below are twelve of the rarest cat breeds, each in all their lovely beauty. Have fun!

Bobtail American

Teresa Keiser, a CFA judge who has lived with and shown various cat breeds, says, “American Bobtails are loving and brilliant cats with a unique wild appearance.” “They are quite interactive and highly loyal to their human families.” They often call you to play games with them and astound you with mid-air toy (or bug) catching ability. They are mostly quiet except for the odd chirp or click when something interests them.

Bobtail American

American Bobtails are a rare breed that provides warm, devoted friends; they are also quite fluffy and cuddly. When first acquainted, they tend to make new friends—whether they have two feet or four—and learn to walk on a leash fast. Though they resemble wild bobcats physically, these fully domesticated animals make great housemates.

One might find the American Bobtail breed difficult. Though it first appeared in North America in the 1960s, it did not become well-known until the 2000s. Experts say the first Bobtail was abandoned at an Arizona motel where it was discovered to be a cat. Given its wild look and characteristic Bobtail, the cat might have been a mix between a domestic house cat and a bobcat.

Short, bobbed tails; almond-shaped eyes; available in any colour or pattern; coat length can vary.

Breed overview

Breed NameAmerican Bobtail
Height9–10 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight9–20 pounds
Life Expectancy13–15 years
TemperamentFriendly, playful, intelligent, and adaptable
CoatShort to medium length, dense, and can be either smooth or shaggy
Color VariationsWide range of colors and patterns, including tabby, solid, bicolor, and more
OriginUnited States
Special FeaturesDistinctive short, bobbed tail (1/3 to 1/2 the length of a regular cat’s tail)
Activity LevelModerately active; enjoys interactive play and mental stimulation
Good WithFamilies, children, other pets, and even dogs
Health NotesGenerally healthy, but prone to hip dysplasia and some genetic conditions due to their unique tail structure

Bombay


Kentucky breeder Nikki Horner was inspired to produce this beautiful black beauty in the 1950s by India’s black leopard. “Nikki Horner originally crossed a sable Burmese with a Black American Shorthair to create the Bombay,” notes Keer.

Bombay

It boasts the friendly, outgoing qualities of both of its parent breeds. Though they’re not reliant on their master to continuously toss a toy, Bombays enjoy playing fetch and can be leash-trained. They are autonomous and like making their amusement fun.Hypoallergenic cat To know more about it and for the facts.


Bombay cats’ strong personalities and laid-back attitudes are inherited from their American Shorthair ancestry; from their Burmese side, they develop outgoing, curious, and lap-loving qualities.


Breed overview

Breed NameBombay Cat
Height9–13 inches (23–33 cm)
Weight6–11 pounds (2.7–5 kg)
Life Expectancy12–16 years
Coat TypeShort, sleek, and glossy
Coat ColorJet black
Eye ColorTypically gold or copper
TemperamentAffectionate, playful, social
Energy LevelModerate to high
Good withFamilies, kids, and other pets
Grooming NeedsLow (minimal shedding)
OriginUnited States (bred to resemble a miniature panther)

Ocicat

Aiming to generate an Aby-point Siamese, experimental breeding produces a wonderful and surprising outcome known as the Ocicat. The Ocicat is a remarkable breed born from the parents, Siamese and Abyssinian. The breeder’s daughter called it “Ocicat” because it looked like the ocelot, a wild cat with a fantastic variegated coat.

Ocicat

Keer claims Ocicats are among the best feline athletes, muscular and agile. One often finds them leaping great distances to grab toys. They have an outgoing attitude and often like animated chats with their relatives. Even fundamental obedience orders can be learned by them. You don’t have to teach them how to become used to water for bathing either. They enjoy it and even perhaps try to shower with you!


Breed overview

Breed NameOcicat
Height9–11 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight12–15 pounds
Life Expectancy14–18 years
TemperamentActive, playful, social, and affectionate
Coat TypeShort, sleek, and glossy
Coat PatternSpotted (resembles a wild cat)
OriginUnited States
Good WithFamilies, children, and other pets
Activity LevelHigh (requires mental and physical stimulation)
Health NotesGenerally healthy, but prone to dental issues and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Japanese Bobtail


Japanese Bobtail Keiger thinks we should credit the Japanese Bobtail for salvaging the silk business of Japan in the sixteenth century. “The emperor demanded that geishas and other high-ranking officials release their cats to hunt the rats eating the silkworms,” she says.

Japanese Bobtail

This makes sense since Japanese Bobtails are masters of the pounce and adept at retrieving and carrying objects in their mouths. These days, they like catching toy mice and honing their cat agility by jumping over obstacles and leaping through hoops.

Every cat is different regarding that tail, even though this fluffy breed is not alone. Though its form and length change, the tail never runs more than three inches.


Breed overview

Breed NameJapanese Bobtail
Height8–9 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight6–10 pounds
Life Expectancy15–18 years
CoatShort to medium length, silky
Color VariationsWide range, including calico, bi-color, and tri-color patterns
TemperamentPlayful, intelligent, social, and affectionate
Activity LevelHigh; enjoys climbing and playing
Distinct FeatureShort, pom-pom-like tail (unique to the breed)
OriginJapan
Good WithFamilies, children, and other pets
Health NotesGenerally healthy; no breed-specific health issues

Egyptian Maus

“Perhaps our oldest known breed is the Egyptian Mau. Keer notes pictures of them in pyramid murals, hunting birds next to hunters. Originally revered by pharaohs and kings, this grey cat species is exotic, magical, and just as sporty now as it was long ago. But not in a fall; they are more like daring, inquisitive prima ballerinas.

Egyptian Maus

Though Egyptian Maus generally name only one individual their favourite, they are highly committed to their families. Still, they are obviously picky about who can approach them and when. This explains why they are among the unusual cat breeds that seek alone time high atop bookshelves and refrigerators.

Usually sought after for their gorgeous coat, the Egyptian Mau is the only naturally domesticated breed of spotted cat. Apart from their fantastic appearance, these cats are also renowned for their hunting ability and quality of companionship.

Initially considered as the companions of the ancient Egyptians thousands of years ago, Egyptian Maus could be among the first domestic cat varieties. Originally brought to the United States in the 1980s, Maus won over cat enthusiasts.
Physical properties: Athletic build, natural spotted coat, medium-sized rounded head.


Breed overview

Breed NameEgyptian Mau
Height7–11 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight8–12 pounds
Life Expectancy9–13 years
OriginEgypt
CoatShort, silky, and spotted
TemperamentIntelligent, active, loyal
Unique FeatureNaturally spotted coat
SpeedFastest domestic cat breed

American Windhair

The American Wirehair breed is renowned for its spontaneous mutation, making it among the rarest cat breeds. Most of these cats are kept either for show or breeding. Keer notes that every hair is curled and that the coat feels like a soft Brillo pad. “The hair shaft is delicate and prone to breakage; thus, during grooming, it needs a light touch.”Even the whiskers have crimped edges.

American Windhair

Petting an American Wirehair is unusual since its coat rebounds when handled. Personality-wise, they are friendly and good-natured; their delayed maturity lets playful kitten antics persist far into their Third Year. A monthly bath may be required even if their coats are easy to maintain; some cats have sensitive or greasy skin.


Breed overview

Breed NameAmerican Wirehair
Height10–13 inches (25–33 cm)
Weight8–12 pounds (3.6–5.4 kg)
Life Expectancy10–15 years
Coat TypeUnique, wiry, and springy
Coat ColorsVariety of colors and patterns
TemperamentFriendly, playful, and adaptable
OriginUnited States (New York, 1966)
Grooming NeedsLow to moderate (due to wiry coat)
Health ConcernsGenerally healthy; no breed-specific issues

Cornish Rex

Tight, curling hair on a cat is rare indeed! Keer notes that the Cornish Rex comes from the rabbit fancy, which signifies a curly-coated rabbit. Originally from Cornwall, England, “Their body is sometimes likened to that of a greyhound, with a high arch in the back and a wasp-waisted tuck-up at the hips.”

Cornish Rexes have great appetites, Keer notes, despite their delicate frame. Their bat-like ears match those of a French Bulldog. They also enjoy playing catch and retrieve, much as dogs do. Surely, catch! Their nimble paws are especially perfect for throwing the ball back.

Cornish Rex

Furthermore, being canine-like in its loving and people-oriented attitude is this unique breed. They will not neglect you when you get home; they love being family members.Discover the 18 Rarest Cat Breeds That Are Hard to Find.


Breed overview

Breed NameCornish Rex
Height8–14 inches (20–35 cm)
Weight5–10 pounds (2.3–4.5 kg)
Life Expectancy11–15 years
Coat TypeShort, curly, and soft
TemperamentPlayful, affectionate, energetic
OriginCornwall, England
Special FeaturesUnique wavy coat, large ears, and slender body
Activity LevelHigh
Good WithFamilies, children, and other pets

Selkirk Rex

So much lovely, soft, cosy bliss. You will simply want to hide your face among all those fantastic curls. Better still, the Selkirk Rex comes in two coat lengths; you will most likely wish for one of each! While the long-haired coat has looser and longer hair, giving it a wonderfully dishevelled look, Keer believes the short-haired coat feels as soft as a lamb’s.

Selkirk Rex

Surprisingly, the Selkirk requires little regular brushing. Curly-haired kittens are aware that overbrushing can cause frizz. When carried in your arms, these heavy-boned cats feel solid. They are also very patient, loving family members.

Children love their active and vivacious character, and the Selkirk is glad to be their friend. Living with other cats and dog-friendly dogs is another thing they are not bothered about.


Breed overview

Breed NameSelkirk Rex
Height9–11 inches (23–28 cm)
Weight6–16 pounds (2.7–7.3 kg)
Life Expectancy13–15 years
Coat TypeCurly, plush, and soft
Coat VariantsShort-haired and long-haired
TemperamentAffectionate, playful, and patient
OriginUnited States (1987)
Special FeatureNaturally curly fur due to a genetic mutation
Good WithFamilies, children, and other pets
Grooming NeedsModerate (regular brushing to prevent matting)
Activity LevelModerate

Korat

Called one of Thailand’s “good luck” cats, the Korat is a rare beauty for numerous intriguing reasons. First, it is among only three breeds with blue coats; the others are the Russian Blue and the Chartreux. Thai farmers placed Korats around their crops when rain was required, as their coats looked like thunderstorms, and they thought they were lucky.

Korat

Still, there is more than that unique about them. Keiger explains, “If you look closely at a Korat, you’ll see a series of hearts within the body.” Along with another heart in the muscular section of the chest, they feature a heart-shaped head and nose. Not enough? Korats are playful and enjoy squeezing up close for cuddling after recess ends. Among the sweetest uncommon cat breeds on this list are these!

Although their history goes thousands of years, korat cats have been somewhat popular in the United States for decades. Originally from Thailand, the breed first came under notice in 13th-century antique relics.

Originally brought to Europe in the 1800s, their solid blue coats, tiny bodies, and large, brilliant eyes helped them to become known as “blue Siamese” cats. Korats first surfaced in the United States in the 1950s; by 1966, the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (ACFA) let them enter the championship class.

Characteristics of Physical Physicality: Muscle body; short blue-grey coat; heart-shaped face; brilliant emerald eyes


Breed overview

Breed NameKorat
OriginThailand
Height9–13 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight6–10 pounds
Life Expectancy10–15 years
CoatShort, glossy, silver-blue
Eye ColorGreen (bright and luminous)
TemperamentAffectionate, intelligent, playful, and loyal
Activity LevelModerate to high
Health NotesGenerally healthy, but prone to genetic conditions like GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis
Good WithFamilies, singles, and other pets (if socialized early)

Singapura

The Malaysian language used in Singapore gives the Singapura its name. Keer explains that although the cat comes from Singapore’s streets, we wouldn’t have these little cuties here today without expats Tommy and Hal Meadows, who returned to the United States in the early 1970s.

Singapura

Men are not much heavier; women usually weigh between 5 and 6 pounds. Although they gain adulthood over 15 to 24 months, their kitten-like nature permeates their lives. These extroverted cats enjoy being anywhere their human is. They love to serve you in any form since they are pretty brilliant.


Breed overview

Breed NameSingapura
Height6–8 inches (at the shoulder)
Weight5–8 pounds
Life Expectancy10–15 years
OriginSingapore
CoatShort, fine, and ticked
ColorSepia agouti (brown ticking)
TemperamentAffectionate, playful, curious
Energy LevelModerate to high
Good WithFamilies, singles, other pets
Health ConcernsGenerally healthy, but prone to pyruvate kinase deficiency (a genetic condition)
Grooming NeedsLow (weekly brushing is sufficient)
Special NotesKnown as one of the smallest cat breeds in the world, with a big personality despite its tiny size.


Havana Brown

Despite its name, you would believe the Havana Brown comes from Cuba; instead, it was first cultivated in England. Breeding a Siamese and a domestic black cat produced this kitty. “Its coat colour is that of rich chocolate, but its head is one of the more distinctive types in the cat fancy,” notes Keer. “Its muzzle seems nearly apart from the head, robust and rounded. Breeders have referred to it to me as “a stuck-on corncob” or “a light bulb.”

Havana Brown

The inquisitive Havana probes more than only its nose. Using its paws, it touches and feels objects of interest—including its humans. Getting a fluffy touch on your cheek would be pretty adorable. Still, you should not expect to get the last word with a Havana. Often left dumbfounded, these cats have a flirtatious and appealing manner. This is the reason your cat mews, by the way.


Breed overview

Breed NameHavana Brown
Height9–11 inches (23–28 cm)
Weight8–12 pounds (3.6–5.4 kg)
Life Expectancy8–13 years
Coat TypeShort, smooth, and glossy
Coat ColorRich, warm brown (mahogany)
Eye ColorGreen
TemperamentAffectionate, intelligent, playful, and social
OriginUnited Kingdom/Thailand (Siamese ancestry)
Activity LevelModerate to high
Grooming NeedsLow (weekly brushing suffices)
Health ConcernsGenerally healthy, but prone to dental issues and gum disease

Devon Rex

Named for their birthplace, Devonshire, England, the Devon Rex has a very unusual appearance. The Devon Rex looks to Keiger like a curly-coated elf or Yoda. Furthermore, Devons own people, but humans do not own Devons. “They truly insist on being with their owners; they love to be with them,” notes Keer. That funny face with those big eyes and ears is challenging to resist.

Havana Brown

You could find them curled in your arms on your lap or under your blankets if they are not eating or playing. Devons enjoy children and hardly turn down a game of hide-and-seek or fetch; they also pick tricks quickly.


Breed overview

Breed NameDevon Rex
Height10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
Weight5–9 pounds (2.3–4.1 kg)
Life Expectancy9–15 years
Coat TypeShort, curly, and soft
TemperamentPlayful, affectionate, social
Energy LevelHigh
Good WithFamilies, kids, other pets
Grooming NeedsLow (minimal shedding)
Health ConcernsHypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation

Scottish Fold

Scottish Fold cats are distinguished by their lovely folded ears. A gene influencing the ear cartilage causes the folds, yet not all Scottish Folds have folded ears since the gene is not totally dominant.

Scottish Fold

Still, these kitties are very adorable. Originally from Scotland, the barn cat used in the Scottish Fold had unique folded ears that became an identifying feature as it was raised throughout the United Kingdom in the 1960s. Among celebrities all around today, like American singer Taylor Swift, they are increasingly common pets.

Breed Overview

Breed NameScottish Fold
Height8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm)
Weight6 to 14 pounds (2.7–6.3 kg) – males are generally heavier than females
Lifespan12–15 years (with proper care)
TemperamentAffectionate, gentle, playful, intelligent, and adaptable
Body TypeMedium-sized, rounded, and muscular; balanced proportions
Coat Medium-length, dense, and plush; comes in a variety of colors and patterns
EarsSmall, folded forward and downward; unique “owl-like” appearance
EyesLarge, round, and wide-set; eye color varies with coat color
TailMedium-length, flexible, and tapered; proportionate to body size

Norway Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat breed’s name reflects its sources. Known in Norway as the skogkatt, this natural European breed originated from domestic cats first brought from ancient Rome. Norse legends had these cats living in Norway for millennia. Americans started loving the Norwegian Forest Cat’s playful demeanour and natural agility in the 1980s, which helped it become well-known here.

Norway Forest Cat

Breed Overview

Breed ProfileNorway Forest Cat
Height9 to 12 inches (23–30 cm) at the shoulder
Weight13 to 20 pounds (5.9–9 kg) – males are typically larger than females
Lifespan12–16 years (with proper care)
TemperamentIntelligent, independent, friendly, playful, and affectionate; enjoys human companionship but not overly clingy
Body TypeLarge, muscular, and sturdy build; long legs and a powerful bone structure
Coat DetailsLong, thick, water-resistant double coat; comes in a variety of colors and patterns (solid, tabby, bicolor, etc.)
EyesLarge, almond-shaped, and expressive; eye color can vary (green, gold, blue, or odd-eyed)
EarsLarge, wide-set, and tufted at the tips; lynx-like appearance
TailLong, bushy, and flowing; proportionate to body size
PawsLarge, round, and heavily furred; adapted for snowy climates

Sphynx

The unique physical characteristics of the Sphynx breed—big ears and a hairless body—help one to identify them. For those with strong allergies, these cats are great companions. They are almost always cold since they lack hair and, hence, often seek warmth and affection from their owners.

Sphynx

Hairless cats have been recorded historically, particularly in ancient Egypt. The contemporary American Sphynx breed descended from cats in Minnesota and Canada with natural mutations that stopped hair growth. Although other hairless cat breeds exist, the Sphynx is notable for its great sociability. Affectionate, playful, and loving the companionship of their owners, sphinxes

Breed Overview

Breed ProfileSphynx
Height8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm)
Weight6 to 12 pounds (2.7–5.4 kg) – males typically larger than females
Lifespan8–14 years (with proper care)
TemperamentAffectionate, energetic, curious, social, and listen seeking
Body TypeMedium-sized, muscular, and sturdy; barrel-shaped chest
SkinHairless with a soft, peach-fuzz texture; variable skin colors/patterns
HeadAngular and wedge-shaped; prominent cheekbones and large ears
EyesLarge, lemon-shaped, and wide-set; eye color varies (blue, green, gold, etc.)
TailLong, slender, and tapering; often described as whip-like

British Shorthaired

The British Shorthair might not be the breed for you if you are searching for a cheeky or naughty cat friend. Rather, their demeanour is calm, quiet, and usually restrained. Native to Great Britain, British Shorthair cats may have been brought there during the first century A.D. Roman invasion.

British Shorthaired

Because of their unusual blue-grey coats, these cats are sometimes called British Blue cats. In 1967, the American Cat Association approved the breed. Though a relatively rare breed, the British Shorthair is a great friend.

Breed Overview

Breed ProfileBritish Shorthair
Height12 to 14 inches (30–35 cm)
Weight7 to 17 pounds (3.2–7.7 kg) – males are typically larger than females
Lifespan12–20 years (with proper care)
TemperamentCalm, affectionate, independent, loyal, and carefree; great family pets
Body TypeMedium to large, muscular, and stocky build; broad chest and strong legs
Coat DetailsShort, dense, and plush; requires minimal grooming; sheds moderately
Coat ColorsWide variety, including white, black, red, cream, blue, silver, and more; patterns like tabby, bicolor, and solid are common
EyesLarge, round, and expressive; eye color varies (e.g., gold, blue, green, or copper) depending on coat color
Facial FeaturesRounded face with full cheeks; strong jawline; short, straight nose
TailMedium-length, thick, and tapered; proportionate to body size

Peterbald

Although Peterbald cats have a short history, they are nonetheless fascinating. First documented in a Russian town known as Don in the 1980s, the unusual breed’s hairlessness earned it the moniker Don Sphynx.

Peterbald

Scientists bred a magnificent oriental shorthair cat with a Don Sphynx in 1993, then shipped the new breed to St. Petersburg, Russia. The basis of the Peterbald breed sprang from one of their kittens. The ACFA approved the Peterbald for a championship-class tournament in May 2008. Though rare, the breed is still widely sought after as a pet in the United States.

Breed Overview

Breed ProfilePeterbald 
Height8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm)
Weight7 to 14 pounds (3–6.3 kg) – males tend to be slightly larger than females
Lifespan12–15 years (with proper care)
TemperamentAffectionate, intelligent, social, curious, and highly adaptable
Body TypeLong, slender, and muscular; elegant and athletic build
CoatHairless to a fine peach fuzz; some may have a short, velvety coat
SkinWrinkled and soft; requires regular bathing to remove oils
EarsLarge, pointed, and wide-set; pre-eminent and expressive
HeadTriangular-shaped; narrow muzzle with prominent cheekbones
EyesAlmond-shaped, slightly slanted; eye color varies (often green or blue)
TailLong, thin, and whip-like; tapers to a fine point

Minskin

You obtain a Minskin when you cross a Munchkin cat with a Sphynx. Minskins have a unique look since they inherit from the Munchkin their short, squat bodies and from the Sphynx their quite thin coats. Boston, Massachusetts, produced the first official Minskin in 2000.

Minskin

The Minskin breed was registered by the International Cat Association (TICA), and after five years, the population had expanded to roughly fifty cats. Part of a TICA program tracking the creation of new cat breeds, this charming and sociable breed is outgoing.

Breed Overview

Breed NameMinskin
Height7 to 8 inches (18–20 cm)
Weight4 to 6 pounds (1.8–2.7 kg) – petite and lightweight
Lifespan12–15 years (with proper care)
TemperamentFriendly, affectionate, playful, curious, and social; great with families
Body TypeSmall, compact, and muscular; short legs (similar to the Munchkin breed)
Coat DetailsNearly hairless with sparse, fine hair on extremities (ears, face, legs, tail); soft, suede-like texture on the body
Head ShapeRounded and broad; famous cheekbones; large, expressive eyes
EyesLarge, round, and wide-set; eye color varies (blue, green, gold, etc.)
EarsLarge and wide-set; may have sparse hair on the tips
TailLong, slender, and flexible; may have a slight puff of hair at the tip

LaPerm

LaPerms get their name from curly or wavy fur with various hues and patterns. The coat can show lengthy corkscrew curls or tight ringlets. Originally a natural genetic mutation in a regular litter of tabby farm cats in Oregon in the 1980s, the LaPerm started as The Cat Fanciers’

LaPerm

Association (CFA) suggested beginning a breeding program in the 1990s to help conserve this unusual and hardly seen coat condition. The breed had attained CFA champion standing by 2008.

Breed NameLaPerm
OriginUnited States (Oregon)
Height8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm)
Weight5 to 10 pounds (2.3–4.5 kg) – males typically larger than females
Lifespan10–15 years (with proper care)
TemperamentAffectionate, curious, intelligent, playful, and people-oriented
Body TypeMedium-sized, semi-foreign body type; graceful and muscular build
Coat DetailsUnique curly or wavy coat; can be short or long; soft and textured
EyesMedium to large, almond-shaped; eye color varies (often complements coat)
EarsMedium-sized, marginally tufted; may have lynx tips
TailLong and plumed (in long-haired varieties); proportionate to body size
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