Scottish Fold cats, named after their folded ears, have a unique look due to a gene affecting ear cartilage. Adorable and popular worldwide, including with celebs like Taylor Swift.
Norwegian Forest Cat, skogkatt in Norway, is an ancient European breed with origins dating back to Roman times. Popular in the US since the 1980s for their playfulness and athleticism.
Sphynx cats: identifiable by giant ears and hairlessness. Ideal for allergy sufferers. Social, affectionate, and playful. Descended from natural mutations in Minnesota and Canada.
Egyptian Mau: sole natural domesticated spotted breed, prized for stunning coat, companionship, and hunting skills. Possibly one of the oldest domestic cat breeds.
Korat cats: ancient Thai breed, traced back to the 13th century. Introduced to Europe as "blue Siamese" in the 1800s. In the U.S. since the 1950s, ACFA recognized them in 1966.
British Shorthair: Quiet, calm, reserved. Native to Great Britain, possibly since Roman times. Also known as British blue cats. ACA recognized in 1967. Uncommon but excellent companions.
Peterbald cats: Originated in 1980s Don, Russia, called Don sphynx. Bred with oriental shorthair in St. Petersberg. ACFA accepted for championship in 2008. Rare but sought-after pet in the U.S.
American Bobtail: Resembles wild bobcats but fully domesticated. Wonderful pets. Originated in North America in the 1960s, gained popularity in the 2000s. May be a bobcat x domestic cat cross.
Minskin: Munchkin x Sphynx cross, short bodies, sparse coat. Originated in Boston, 2000. TICA registered in 2005 with 50 cats. Adorable, outgoing, part of TICA's new breed program.
LaPerms: Curly, wavy fur in various colors. Mutation in 1980s Oregon farm cats. CFA breeding program started in 1990s. Achieved CFA champion status in 2008. Unique and rare coat quality.