American shorthair, with a pedigree tracing back to Mayflower's voyage, were skilled mousers brought by pilgrims to control rodents. Officially recognized in 1966.
American cat breed with backward-curled ears got its name from a natural genetic mutation discovered in the 1980s. Selective breeding for the dominant trait started to achieve the distinct ear shape.
Bengal cat, developed in the 1970s, resulted from crossing an African leopard cat with domestic cats. Contributions from Abyssinian, American shorthair, and Egyptian Mau.
Exotic shorthair: American breed resembling a Persian with a shorter coat and the same round face. Known as the "lazy man’s Persian," sharing traits and breed standards, but easier to groom.
Maine Coon: "gentle giant" of cats, large size, easygoing nature. Originated in Maine, adapted for harsh weather with medium-length fur, tufts on ears/feet. Low-maintenance, weekly grooming.
Ragdoll: California original, developed in the 1960s. Friendly, affectionate, and enjoys all human interactions. Unique trait: goes limp when carried, unlike other selective cat breeds.
Balinese: Similar to Siamese but with longhaired coat. Originated from a gene mutation in Siamese litter, once called longhaired Siamese. Selective breeding refined traits for this American breed.
Selkirk Rex: American breed, curly coat from genetic mutation. Developed with Persian, British, and exotic shorthair crosses. Sweet, mellow, friendly with people and pets.
Bombay: American breed resembling a small black panther. Affectionate and sociable. Developed in Kentucky in the 1970s, crossing black American shorthair and sable Burmese cats.
Pixie-bob: Resembles a smaller bobcat. Originated from wild bobcat crossed with a domestic cat. Playful and affectionate, despite its wild appearance and larger size.