Persians are amongst the most popular cat breeds out there. Indeed, they are known for their distinctive flat faces and long flowing coats, and we have traced them back as far as the 1600s. Persians are quiet, gentle cats that can be high maintenance in terms of grooming.
Considered one of the largest cat breeds, it should come as no surprise they feature on our list of cats with thick tails. This muscular, long-haired breed has an undeniably friendly, chirpy, playful nature. Maine Coon cats love human company and are also fond of spending time outdoors.
The American Curl is a distinctive breed, easily recognized by its unusual ears. Their ears curl back and bend in towards the middle of the head. The bend is caused by a random genetic mutation that has been passed on through breeding.
This highly intelligent breed is a long-haired descendant of the Abyssinian. They are active, and playful, and love to play games with their humans. The most common color for Somali cats is golden brown, almost verging on ginger. Their long, bushy tails, angular faces, and tall pointed ears make them look like miniature foxes.
The Birman is a loving, affectionate breed that certainly makes a great family pet. Birmans can grow to be quite large and have stocky bodies, including a thick, fluffy tail. These blue-big-eyed cats have four white feet. Correspondingly people refer to their white paws as gloves or socks.
There isn’t much imagination needed to figure out the story behind the LaPerm’s name. The curls in their fur make it look like this breed has just stepped out of the salon! These curious cats are into everything and, in many cases, love riding around on the shoulders of their humans.
Also known as the “Aby,” this medium-sized breed is muscular and athletic. Consequently, they have a thick muscular tail too. They originated in Abyssinia, Ethiopia, and are thought to have been brought to the western world by soldiers returning from the area.
No prizes for guessing where the Scottish Fold breed originated! The Scottish Fold is well known for having ears that fold to the point of being almost flat. A random mutation causes the ear fold. This has since been passed on through selective breeding to create the breed.
The Turkish Van is nicknamed the swimming cat due to its love of water. Turkish Van cats have a naturally water-resistant coat, which may explain their love of swimming and water. They have thick, bushy tails with a ringed pattern running along their length.
These big cats are native to Norway and have long, thick fur that is an evolved adaption for keeping them warm in the cold. Norwegian Forest Cats may look like they belong in the wilderness, but they are actually gentle giants.