Persian Cats
The Persian is one of the oldest breed of cat. In Britain, it is called the Longhair or Persian Longhair. A Persian without an established and registered pedigree is classed as a domestic longhair cat.
The first documented ancestors of the Persian were imported from Persia into Italy in 1620 by Pietro della Valle, and from Turkey into France by Nicholas-Claude Fabri de Peiresc at around the same time. From France, they soon reached Britain. The longhaired cats from Persia were interbred with Turkish Angoras. Their appearance then differed greatly from today's standard. Hundreds of years of selective breeding made Persians cobby cats with a drastically shorter muzzle. In general, it's not clear when longhaired cats first appeared, as there are no African Wildcats, who are believed to be ancestors of domesticated cats, with long fur. There are claims that the gene responsible for long hair was introduced through hybridization with Pallas cat. Recent research, however, refutes this theory.
History of Persian Cats
Physical Characteristics
A show-quality Persian has an extremely long and thick coat, short legs, a wide head with the ears set far apart, large eyes, and an extremely shortened muzzle. Due to their "squashed" faces, it is not uncommon for Persians to have moderate discharge from their tear ducts. A Persian's eyes are easily cleaned and should be maintained consistently by its owner. The breed was originally established with a short muzzle, but over time, this characteristic has become extremely exaggerated, particularly in North America.
Temperament
Persian cats are noted for their gentle temperament and their adaptability to new environments, making them ideal show cats. They are quiet and, although not shy, tend to be undemonstrative. They are quite loving and make wonderful companions. Persian cats have a sweet & gentle nature. Typically they have a laid back personality. They are an affectionate breed & enjoy the company of their carers.
Persians are a quiet cat, easy going & generally get along with other pets & family members although boisterous children should be avoided.