Top 10 Long-Haired Cat Breeds

Long-haired cats are extremely elegant. Their fluffy fur is magical, like a real-life plush. There are many types of long-haired cat breeds, and we wanted to create a list showing you our top 10 favorites—in no particular order—🏆 Keep reading to find out.

Somali

@errol.the.cat

The Somali is a spectacular cat that we can say it’s the longhaired version of the beautiful Abyssinian. Somali cats have a strong and muscular body, well proportioned and just gorgeous.

This “fox-like” cat doesn’t need much brushing very often. Just use a gentle cat brush once a week, and that’ll be enough.

Somalis are very intelligent. They can learn different tricks, and they’re very playful and affectionate by nature.

One thing to consider before deciding on getting a Somali cat is that they don’t really like being alone, a play buddy would be perfect.

Key Stats:

Origin: A mystery
Average Lifespan: 11 to 16 Years
Weight: 6 to 10 lb 
Size: Medium to Large

Fun Fact: 

The Somali cat isn't actually from Somalia. Their origin is still a mystery.

Siberian

@alex.the.siberian

The Siberian is a cat breed originally from Russia. They’re very affectionate and playful with their family. 

The Siberian is the type of cat that will follow you all around the house to participate in whatever you’re doing. If you’re looking for a fluffy cat for a warm cuddle during the cold winter nights, this is the right choice for you.

Siberians love people and want to be in good company.

Their coat is very thick and dense, so you would have to brush it regularly to avoid hairballs, tangles, and mats. Their fur tends to shed seasonally during springtime and fall, so keep in mind that during those seasons, you’ll need to groom her more regularly.

They don’t need regular bathing, but you can help them maintain their majestic fur by using natural cat bath wipes or dry cat shampoo. 

Key Stats:

Origin: Russia
Average Lifespan: 11 to 18 Years
Weight: 8 to 17 lb 
Size: Medium to Large

Fun Fact: 

Many people allergic to cats seem to be okay being around a Siberian cat. That’s because Siberians generate less Fel D 1, which is the main protein that causes allergic reactions to people.

Birman

@pippa_birmancat

Discover the beautiful Birman, a docile and gorgeous cat that is also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma”. 

Birmans are very friendly and are one of the best choices for families with kids. They also tend to behave very well in multi-pet households. Their fur is medium-long and very soft to the touch.

Their fur doesn’t mat easily due to its silky finish so a weekly brushing season would be enough to remove dead fur, distribute skin oils and maintain good blood circulation.

Birmans are usually very quiet and not very bossy, they like to go with the flow.

Key Stats:

Origin: France / Burma
Average Lifespan: 12 to 16 Years
Weight: 6 to 12 lb 
Size: Medium 

Fun Fact: 

The Birman is said to have originated in ancient Burma. It was considered a sacred companion cat of the Kittah priests.

Persian

@coconicolette

The Persian is one of the oldest cat breeds. One of their main unique characteristics is their elegance and grace, their fur is very soft, and they look very rich.

The Persian cat is very docile and quiet—your typical lap cat. They are also a little bit discriminating; they'll choose the people they feel most comfortable with and show them full affection and love.

They don't like loud environments and prefer calm places without much noise. They love to sleep, play, and have some treats here and there —and who doesn't, right? Right!? Haha.

They are very patient too, and they wouldn't usually disturb you while you're working or doing your own thing.

Persians need daily grooming. Their majestic fur needs attention to keep being beautiful and soft. You need several brushes to take care of your Persian. 
Regular bathing is also essential at least once a month to make sure they're clean, and their skin is healthy. Most cats hate water because it just doesn't sit well on their fur, it takes forever to dry, and they don't like that. You can alternatively use a dry cat shampoo and some cat grooming wipes too.

Notes: You should always keep your Persian indoors. Due to their calm and easygoing personality, they're not ready for outside threats such as fights, the weather, and other dangers that outdoor cats commonly face.

Key Stats:

Origin: Persia (Now Iran)
Average Lifespan: 10 to 15 Years
Weight: 7 to 12 lb 
Size: Medium

Fun Fact: 

The Persian cat is one of the most popular pure breeds in the United States of America.

Norweigan Forest

@neline_the_lioness

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a cat originally from Northern-Europe (Norway). They’re pretty big cats, males can weigh up to 22 pounds!

Norweigan Forests are very friendly but they don’t demand too much attention nor they need much petting. Their fur is beautiful. They also don’t need as much grooming as Persians do, you can simply brush her coat once or twice a week.

They love being around children and they’re usually easy going with other cats or dogs. That being said, you should always introduce her to new pets slowly, patience is key.

They also love being outdoors, so she’ll enjoy walks on a leash.

Key Stats:

Origin: Norway
Average Lifespan: 12 to 16 Years
Weight: 8 to 18 lb 
Size: Large

Fun Fact: 

Norweigan Forest Cats are believed to share ancestors with the American Maine Coon.

Maine Coon

@elliot_the_mainecoon_cat

What to say about this incredible cat, well, first of all, you’ll notice that Maine Coons are very, very big! Some of them basically look like lions, no joke!

Don’t be intimidated by their size, though. They’re affectionate and also very loyal companions. They’re great hunters, so if you have “mouse problems” in your house, no worries because the Maine Coon will keep them at bay, ha! 🙅‍♀️🐀

The Maine Coons are very friendly and love to follow people around, and they are not very needy, so as long as you give them the right amount of attention, they’ll be happy.

They are also very intelligent, so you can teach them tricks and games such as fetch and sit, stand up on command, etc.

Despite having very long fur, its silky finish helps a lot with mats; however, we recommend weekly brushing for better maintenance.

Key Stats:

Origin: USA (Maine)
Average Lifespan: 9 to 16 Years
Weight: 9 to 18 lb 
Size: Large

Fun Fact: 

The Maine Coon is the largest domestic cat. If you're looking for an intimidating cat, this one is your right choice. 🦁

Selkirk Rex

@gina_and_gepetto

Well, just in case you didn’t know, everybody is going crazy over the Selkirk Rex. Their unique appearance turns heads everywhere. Like, come on, do you see that fur? It’s a cat, or it’s a sheep? Magical. Their whiskers are curly too.

They are very patient and also have a friendly personality. Selkirk Rexes love people.

Just because their fur is curly, doesn’t mean you should completely ignore grooming. We recommend brushing a couple of times a week to avoid mats and tangles.

They don’t need regular bathing, but it’s always good to clean them with bath wipes or dry shampoo to maintain a fresh, good-smelling fur.

Somehow, this cat reminds us of the Pokemon named Jolteon, go figure :)

Key Stats:

Origin: USA (Montana)
Average Lifespan: 10 to 15 Years
Weight: 10 to 15 lb 
Size: Medium to Large

Fun Fact: 

This cat is often affectionately nicknamed a "cat in sheep's clothing" and the "cat with a bad hair day" due to their extra fuzzy, and curly hair. 🐏

British Longhair

@smoothiethecat

British Longhairs are very soft and plush-like cats. They love being around people, but they don’t mind some alone time as well.

They are often very laid-back and passive, so it’s important to stimulate them by providing interactive toys because they need exercise to maintain good health.

British Longhairs tend to adapt to being in households with multiply pets, and they are also fond of children.

Due to the length and texture of their coats, they need brushing regularly, especially during shedding seasons.

If you’re looking for an elegant and calm kitty, you should consider this breed.

Key Stats:

Origin: Great Britain
Average Lifespan: 15 to 17 Years
Weight: 9 to 18 lb 
Size: Medium to Large

Fun Fact: 

It is said that Smoothie –a British Longhair– was the prettiest cat in the world back in 2016.

Ragdoll

@eloisefluff

Ragdolls are the sweethearts of the feline kingdom. They are very easy-going and also loyal to their human parents. She’ll love to greet you at the door when you get back home after a long day of work. They are the perfect cat for families with children as they are very docile and gentle with the youngest ones.

They are also very intelligent and can learn tricks quickly, you’ll just need a little bit of patience and perseverance. 

Key Stats:

Origin: USA (California)
Average Lifespan: 12 to 17 Years
Weight: 10 to 20 lb 
Size: Large

Fun Fact: 

The name "Ragdoll" comes from their tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up.

Turkish Angora

@kingleothefluffy

 

Hailing from Turkey, this magnificent cat had to make it to our list. They are smart and also are famous for their super soft-to-the-touch fur. Turkish Angoras are highly affectionate, very loyal, and playful.

They are very muscular and love playing and running around. This breed is also great if you plan to take your kitty for a walk.

For this breed, we also recommend a weekly brushing session to avoid mats and tangles.

Turkish Angoras usually select a member of the family that will be "her favorite" and will be very protective and loyal to that person.

Key Stats:

Origin: Turkey
Average Lifespan: 12 to 19 Years
Weight: 5 to 9 lb 
Size: Small to Medium

Fun Fact: 

The Turkish Vans are famous for their rare and unique love of water. They seem to enjoy an occasional swim. 🏊‍♀️ 

Where do Long Haired Cats come from?

It's said that long-haired cats have originated in Western Asia centuries ago. Now, as seen in this article, they come from all over the world.

How much do long-haired cats typically shed?

There’s a common—and mistaken—belief that long-haired cats shed a lot more than short-haired cats, but that’s not correct. Long-haired cats shed just as much as short-haired cats, obviously, depending on the breed, their tendency to shed varies. The main difference would be that long-haired cats shed longer hairs.

Healthy outdoor cats usually shed twice a year. Indoor cats, however, have this system a little bit disrupted, and their shedding will depend on the current temperature and light of their home.

How do you groom a Long Haired Cat?

• Brushing: To groom your fluffy furriend you have to use different tools and products. We recommend starting to groom your kitty at an early age when they're still kittens. It's very important to use a cat brush that doesn't hurt their skin. 
  
  
• Bathing: Most cats hate water so the best option to bathe your long-haired cat is using grooming wipes or a waterless shampoo specially designed for cats.
  
  
• Claw Trimming: Even though it might sound intimidating, trimming your cat's claws is not difficult at all! You can check this quick guide about how to do it. Make sure to use high-quality and sharp cat claw clippers.

Behavior

Every breed is different, and every cat is different, too, so it’s like a mix of personalities and behaviors. You have to make sure you spend some time with your cat, helping her with grooming, and rewarding her good behavior with a few treats.

Remember that cats also need playtime, so make sure to get some toys. If you spend a lot of time out of your home, you should also consider getting another cat so they can entertain themselves playing together.

For more information about cat behavior, please check this amazing interview we did with Feline Behavior Expert, Dr. Marci Koski.

Conclusion

If you're thinking about getting a long-haired cat, make sure you have enough time for them. They need regular grooming and good care. We've written this detailed article about the things you should know before getting a cat.