Most of us can easily identify a Siamese or Persian out of a lineup of cats. But how about a Peterbald? Or a Sokoke? Not ringing any bells?
While everyone thinks their own beloved feline is one in a million, owners of pedigreed cats can take that description literally.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association points out that with only two to four per cent of owned cats making the pedigreed cut, all purebred felines can be considered rare.
And like any rare marvel, these breeds are definitely something to treasure. Here are 14 of the rarest cat breeds in the world.
1. Devon Rex
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This impish cat breed earned its name from its place of origin: Devonshire, England. With its large ears and playful mug, it’s no wonder the Devon Rex earned the monikers ‘Pixie Cat’ and ‘Alien Cat’.
This is a cat known for its silliness. The delightful Devon Rex loves to play and interact with people.
2. Kurilian Bobtail
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While popular in its birthplace, Russia, the Kurilian Bobtail is rarely spotted in North America. In fact, according to The International Cat Association, there are less than 100 Kurilian Bobtails in the whole of the United States, though the breed is more commonplace in Europe.
Interested parties, be forewarned: these cats are notorious shedders. Whether their coat is long or short, it’s going to require more maintenance than the average house cat. Truthfully, we think these stub-tailed beauties are well worth the effort.
3. Norwegian Forest Cat
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Nearly declared extinct during WWII, the Norwegian Forest Cat sports a thick, waterproof coat that protects it against the freezing winters of Scandinavia. Their large, hardy stature may look imposing, but they’re a social and people-oriented breed.
The Norwegian Forest cat has a loyal fanbase in Europe, but they’re rarely found in the United States.
4. Minskin
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Here’s a rare cat breed with an appearance that’s about as unique as it gets. The Minskin combines the traits of its ancestor breeds, the hairless Sphynx and the diminutive Munchkin cat.
The adorable Minskin is a newer cat breed that was recognised by the International Cat Association as an official breed in 2008.
5. Egyptian Mau
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Outgoing and exotic, the Egyptian Mau definitely makes the list of rare cat breeds. It’s also one of the few domestic cat breeds with naturally occurring spots on its coat.
Fun Fact: this rare cat breed is a speed demon, with speeds recorded up to 30 miles per hour!
6. Tonkinese
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Hailing from Canada, the lovely and uncommon Tonkinese cat is a cross between the Burmese and the Siamese. Blending these two breeds created a line of cats that are intelligent, engaging and vocal. It’s hard not to be won over by their signature aquamarine-coloured eyes.
7. Serengeti
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With the intention of creating a domestic cat with an exotic, wild appearance, the Serengeti was developed by crossing a Bengal with an Oriental Shorthair. They’re a relatively newer breed, with a handful of breeders in the UK, Europe, United States, Australia, and Russia.
Aside from their regal looks, the Serengeti is an active feline who requires a lot of attention from its owners.
8. Chartreux
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Affectionately referred to as “the smiling blue cat of France,” this rare breed has a history steeped in legend. It’s been said that the Chartreux enjoyed a quiet, monastic life when they were brought to the Carthusian monasteries of France by Crusaders. The Chartreux is considered the National Cat of France.
9. Peterbald
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The small number of Peterbald breeders makes this cat one of the rarest in the world. Originating in Russia, the Peterbald can be either completely hairless or have short hairs resembling ‘peach fuzz’.
Their charming personalities and remarkable athletic feats make us wish there were more of these beautiful cats in the world!
10. Korat
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The silvery-blue Korat is one cat you rarely see on UK shores and all but one other country. Limits on the cat’s breeding have been placed by its homeland, Thailand, making it a rarity away from those shores.
According to PetMD: “Perhaps, as tradition would dictate, limits on breeding and population are quietly imposed. This could be so that only the upper hierarchy, or those fortunate enough to have been gifted a Korat, are able to receive the cat.”
While finding a Korat breeder might be tricky, this rare cat can be very occasionally found at rescue shelters.
11. LaPerm
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This rare breed’s kinky curls are reminiscent of the popular ’80s hairstyle, the perm. In 1982, Linda Koehl was surprised when a curly-haired kitten was born to her brown tabby cat in Oregan, USA. Appropriately dubbed Curly, this unique cat inspired Koehl to begin a breeding program.
The friendly LaPerm has a clown-like personality and a habit of getting into mischief.
12. Burmilla
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The Burmilla cat’s origins were set in motion entirely by chance. After completing his duties, a housecleaner accidentally left a door open, giving a female Lilac Burmese the opportunity to escape. She encountered a beguiling Persian male, and the two produced the first litter of Burmillas.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association instructs those interested in bringing home a Burmilla to look for reputable breeders and to keep this ‘rare treasure’ indoors.
13. Sokoke
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The UK’s Governing Council of the Cat Fancy considers the Sokoke to be the rarest domestic cat breed in the world. This feline originated in the forested Sokoke area of eastern Kenya.
Although previously thought to be a hybrid breed crossed with wild cats, DNA tests have proved otherwise. This friendly and energetic breed can actually trace its ancestry to Asian cats who were descendants of the wild cats of Arabia.
14. Turkish Van
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According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, this breed is regarded as a ‘regional treasure’ in their Turkish homeland, prompting the government to limit exports of this cat to other countries. The breed is first thought to have landed on UK shores in the 1950s, though they remain a rare sight.
The CFA observes that “even in areas where the breed has been known for centuries, they are still relatively rare.”
If you are lucky enough to meet a Turkish Van, you’ll find that they’re an affectionate, intelligent, and energetic breed.
Takeaway
There’s something about these rare cats that makes pet owners fall head over heels. We have to admit, it’s hard to ignore these unique creatures. After all, it’s not every day you run into a hairless feline or a cat sporting a perm. Which, truthfully, makes them all the more special.
