The Aristocratic Feline: Regal Cat Breeds For Your Highness

Cats have been associated with royalty for centuries, with several breeds recognised as throwbacks to felines of the past. From the Turkish Angora, a favourite of Turkish Sultans, to the Siamese, which could only be owned by kings and other royal family members, here is a look at some of the cat breeds with royal connections.

Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora is an ancient, natural breed of domestic cat that originated in central Anatolia (Ankara Province in modern-day Turkey). They are considered a national treasure in Turkey and were long prized by Turkish Sultans. The breed has been documented as early as the 17th century, and was recognised as distinct in Europe by the 17th century.

In terms of health, Turkish Angoras are generally healthy, but they are prone to some common feline health issues, including deafness (particularly if they have blue or odd eyes), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, ataxia, and chronic kidney disease.

Siamese

Today, Siamese cats are one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide and are accepted by all cat registries. They typically cost between $600 and $1200, and their lifespan ranges from 8 to 20 years. They are highly affectionate and intelligent, and their striking blue eyes, sleek body, and distinctive coat with colour points make them stand out from other breeds.

Khao Manee

The Khao Manee cat, or Khao Plort, is an ancient and rare breed of domestic cat that originated in Thailand. Its name translates to 'white gem', and it is also known as the Diamond Eye cat. The breed is referenced in the Tamra Maew, a book of poems about cats, written in the 14th century.

The Khao Manee is highly sought-after, and they are currently one of the rarest feline breeds in the world, with prices reaching up to $11,000 USD. They are very rare outside of Thailand, with the first Khao Manee being imported to the United States in 1999. The breed is recognised by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and the International Cat Association (TICA).

The Khao Manee has a moderate exercise requirement and gets along well with children and other pets. However, they are not ideal for family homes as they require a calm environment and extensive outdoor space. They are also slightly talkative and need a high level of enrichment, including simulated hunting games and interactive play.

In terms of health, the Khao Manee is generally considered a healthy breed with few known genetic health conditions. However, there is an established link between the white coat colour, blue eyes, and deafness. Therefore, it is recommended that cats registered for breeding are tested for deafness. Additionally, their pure white coat makes them more susceptible to sunburn on the nose and ears.

Birman

The Birman, or the "Sacred Cat of Burma", is a domestic cat breed with a long and fascinating history. According to legend, the breed dates back to before the time of Christ, serving as companions to temple priests in northern Burma in the Mount of Lugh. Birmans are said to have held the souls of high priests until they were reincarnated, and their distinctive appearance is believed to be a result of their devotion to the goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse.

The Birman is a long-haired, colour-pointed cat with a silky coat, deep blue eyes, and white "gloves" on each paw. They are a semi-long-haired breed, with a well-muscled, medium to large body, a rounded face, and neat ears. Their fur is typically a pale cream to white coat over the body, with coloured points on the face, ears, legs, and tail. Birmans come in a variety of colours, including seal, chocolate, red, blue, lilac, and cream, as well as tabby and tortie variations.

In terms of temperament, the Birman is a friendly, laid-back, and relaxed breed. They are highly social and dependent, enjoying the company of people and playing games. While they can be left alone during the day, they require daily exercise and grooming to maintain their health and well-being. Birmans are also known to be slightly talkative and can be quite chatty, especially when seeking attention from their favourite person.

The Birman breed was first recognised in France in 1925 and has since gained recognition in England, the United States, Canada, and other countries. Despite facing near extinction during World War II, dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to rebuild the breed, and by the early 1950s, pure Birman litters were once again thriving. Today, the Birman is a beloved companion for many, known for its gentle and quiet nature.

Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a cat breed with royal connections. According to legend, the breed originated in the Archangel Isles in northern Russia, where they were once called Archangel cats. They were favoured by the Russian czars and Catherine the Great is said to have preferred them as pets.

These cats are generally healthy, with no known genetically linked disorders, and can live up to 20 years. They are also good for owners with allergies, as they produce lower levels of the glycoprotein Fel d 1, a known allergen, than other cat breeds.

Frequently asked questions