Persian Cat History
It is believed that the Persian cat was named after its country of origin “Persia”, now modern day Iran. It is one of the oldest known breeds of cats dating back to hieroglyphic records as early as 1684 B.C.
Italian traveler, “Pietro della Valle” (1536-1652) is credited with bringing the first Persian Cats back to his homeland Italy in 1620.
The Persian cat was introduced to North America in the late 19th century and has now not only become the most popular breed in the U.S.A. but in the world.
Persian cats were always considered “aristocratic, rare and cats of high value” and at one time were exclusively owned by Royalty, the elite and the wealthy. They were highly prized for their beautiful long flowing coats, expression, wonderful temperament and status.
Over the years the look of the Persian has changed, yet the characteristic round head, large eyes, small ears and luxurious flowing coat has not been lost. They are renowned for their gentle affectionate laid back personality and sweet disposition.
Of the different breeds of cats, it is still the Persian, that represents “elegance, show and glamour”, living up to its aristocratic heritage of the past.
The Persian Cat is one of the most
widely recognized and popular breeds in the world - and
one of the oldest. As their name suggests, Persians
originate from the country that was once Persia, now
Iran, in the Middle East.
Experts believe that today's domestic cat is the
descendent of Felis libyca, a cat that is still found in
Africa and Asia. A short-haired, brown mackerel tabby,
its adaptation to the environment caused many early
mutations, one of which was the development of the
long-haired gene. The first of these cats, the Persian,
was believed to have evolved on the high, cold plateaus
of the country then named Persia, hence their name.
The
cats were introduced into Europe by the Phoenicians and
Romans in the 1500s as highly valued items of trade. The
Europeans were impressed by the Persian's long silky
coat and purposefully bred the cats to perpetuate the
trait. By the 1900s the cats were being exported to the
United States and since then their popularity has spread
throughout the world.
The
Persian is the most popular breed among the long-haired
cats; others include Birman, Turkish Van, Ragdoll, Mayne
Coon, Norvegian Forest Cat and the Exotic (short hair
version of the Persian).
In Australia today, while Persians
are still out-numbered by the short-haired breeds, they
continue to be popular as both a family pet and for
showing purposes.
The Persian is a medium to large cat
with heavy bones and excellent balance from section to
section.
Silver & White Doll Faced Persian
Kittens for Sale! Blue, Green, Copper, & Odd Eyed
available.
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