1. Persian Cats Were Originally Souvenirs
The exact origin of Persian cats remains somewhat mysterious. It is believed that this breed has existed for thousands of years in the Middle East, although scientific studies show they share genetic traits with Western European cats.
An Italian nobleman named Pietro della Valle bought a Persian cat as a souvenir and brought it back to Western Europe. He was a renowned explorer who traveled extensively across the Middle East, India, and North Africa. In 1620, while passing through Persia, Valle saw unusual gray long-haired cats and purchased four pairs to bring back to Europe, laying the foundation for the breed’s global development.
2. Persian Cats Featured in the World’s First Cat Exhibition
Over 250 years after Valle brought the first Persian cat to Europe, the breed caused a sensation at the first cat exhibition at London’s Crystal Palace in 1871. This event also featured the first appearances of Siamese, Scottish Fold, and Manx cats, among other exotic breeds. The exhibition attracted over 20,000 attendees and visitors.
3. Persian Cats Are Highly Popular in the United States
Since 1895, Persian cats have been introduced to the United States by cat enthusiasts. By 1906, the first cat fanciers’ association in the U.S. was established, and Persian cats were the first breed registered in the association’s list. Today, Persian cats have become extremely popular and are one of the most expensive breeds in the U.S.
4. Persian Cats Are Revered by Famous FiguresÂ
Throughout history, many famous personalities have owned Persian cats. Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, had around 60 cats during her lifetime, including a Persian named Bismarck. Actress Marilyn Monroe owned a white Persian cat named Mitsou, and novelist Raymond Chandler read the first drafts of his works to his black Persian cat, Taki.
5. Persian Cats Have a Pleasant TemperamentÂ
If you find your cat to be difficult, mischievous, or disobedient, you should consider getting a Persian cat. Despite their somewhat stern appearance, Persian cats have extremely easy-going, friendly, and sociable temperaments.
6. Persian Cats Come in Various TypesÂ
While ancient Persians considered their cats to be iconic only if they were white or silver, modern breeding has produced Persians in various colors and forms. The most common subtypes today include Himalayan, Chinchilla, Exotic, and hybrids between Persian and Siamese, among others, with diverse and colorful coats.
7. Persian Cats Are a Cultural Icon
Persian cats are perhaps the most frequently depicted cats in popular culture. They have appeared in James Bond films, starred in the movie “Cats & Dogs” (2001), and even have a Pokémon named Persian.
8. Persian Cats Are Quite Lazy
Despite being friendly and sociable, Persian cats are quite lazy. They can sleep for up to 20 hours a day, spending the rest of their time eating and playing. However, their laziness does not mean they are inactive; when hungry, these cats can search the entire house for food.
9. Persian Cats Shed a Lot of FurÂ
If you are ready to own a friendly, sociable, slightly lazy cat like a Persian, you should also be prepared to clean your house frequently. Persian cats shed a lot of fur, which can happen at any time and place. Therefore, you need to brush their fur daily to keep it smooth and prevent excessive shedding around the house.
10. Persian Cats Are Quite Expensive
This breed is highly popular in the U.S. and Europe. You will have to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 to own a quality, purebred Persian cat with complete documentation. However, this breed has a very long lifespan, up to 15-17 years if well cared for. Therefore, they will be wonderful companions, sharing many memories with you over a long period.
