A Complete Guide To 34 Native American Cat Breeds (Part 1) - Cat Canva (2023)

Cats have long been associated with Native American culture. Several Native American cat breeds are still revered by many people today. Americans have long been a cat-lover nation. I will try to show you a complete guide to them in this article.

Cats in Native American culture

Cats were revered as sacred animals and were frequently given food and water. Cats were also thought to have supernatural abilities, such as seeing the future. They are commonly regarded as lucky symbols. Cats are still used in some ceremonies and are occasionally given as gifts. They were frequently kept as pets, given names, and treated as family members. Cats were even worshipped as gods in some areas! They also appeared in many children’s stories.

When one thinks of Native American heritage, images of teepees, buffalo, and possibly dreamcatchers come to mind. But one aspect of Native American culture is frequently overlooked: cats!!! Yes, cats have long been associated with Native American culture. They were so revered that some tribes believed they possessed magical powers. And many Native American tribes had names derived from cats.

According to Sioux Indians, Cats were the spirits of those who had died and could cure diseases. The Choctaw people believed that cats brought good luck and kept them as pets. The Hopi tribe worshipped cats as the rain god, Maasau’u, and offered them sacrifices to bring rain to the desert.

Read more:A Complete Guide to Cat Breeds

A short history of Native American cat breeds

Cats have been a part of human society for thousands of years, with evidence tracing back to Ancient Egypt. However, the origins of our feline friends remain largely unknown. One theory holds that they originated in Asia and crossed the Bering land bridge into North America. The fact that all North American cat breeds can trace their ancestry back to two Asian cats – the Siamese and the Abyssinian – lends support to this theory. These cats would have interbred with one another and wildcats, eventually giving rise to the wide range of Native American cat breeds we see today.

The term “Native American cat breeds” refers to various types of cats that have evolved in North and South America. Traders and settlers from Asia and Europe brought these cats to the Americas. They have been selectively bred over time to produce distinct varieties well-suited to the climate and terrain of their new home continent. A few Native American cat breeds, such as the Savannah and the Ocicat, have also recently emerged. These breeds are less well-known than those that have existed for decades or more.

The American Curl was the first Native American cat breed in the early 1900s in the United States. The American Shorthair is the second Native American cat breed. This breed was also developed in the United States, but only in the mid-nineteenth century. The American Shorthair cat has short hair and a broad face. The Devon Rex is the third and finally Native American cat breed. In the early 1900s, this breed was developed in England.

Read more:A Complete Guide To Native American Dog Breeds

Europeans bring their cats to America.

In the 1600s, Europeans began bringing their cats to America. These domestic cats were brought over as pets or to help control rodents on ships. By the early 1800s, there were so many cats in America that some were bred for specific traits. Several new cat breeds were developed in Europe and brought to America in the late 1800s and early 1900s, particularly after World War I. There are over 70 recognized cat breeds today, many of which originated in Europe.

The two groups interbred over time, and there are now many cat breeds considered to be of European and American descent. The Maine Coon is the most popular of these hybrid cat breeds. This large breed is distinguished by its thick fur coats and friendly demeanor. They also have one of the most extended lifespans of any cat breed, with an average lifespan of 15 years or more. Other popular hybrid cat breeds include Siamese-Tabby, Persian-Siamese, and Himalayan-Persian crosses.

Native American tribes and their cats

Native Americans regard cats as sacred animals and treat them with great reverence. Cats are even considered members of the family in some tribes. Many Native American tribes have their distinct breed of cat, which is often indigenous to the tribe’s home region. These cats are frequently adored and cared for by tribe members, playing an essential role in the tribe’s history and culture.

Cats are thought to be unique creatures with mystical powers by various tribes. Cats are considered to be the reincarnated spirits of deceased loved ones by some tribes. Others believe that cats can heal the sick and ward off evil spirits. Native Americans treat their cats with great respect, regardless of their beliefs. These furry friends are cherished tribe members who receive all the love and care they require to thrive.

Why are native American cat breeds unique?

What distinguishes Native American cat breeds? They are among the oldest in the world. They are believed to have originated in what is now modern-day Mexico and spread throughout North and South America. These cats have adapted to various environments, from the cold Andes mountains to the hot deserts of Central America. They come in multiple shapes and sizes, as well as coat colors and patterns. The wild nature of native American cat breeds is perhaps their most distinguishing feature. These cats are not content with being lap pets; they require plenty of room to roam and explore. If you’re looking for a cuddly companion, these might not be the cats for you.

Cats are one-of-a-kind animals, and native American cat breeds are no exception. These cats have distinct physical characteristics that distinguish them from other breeds. Native American cat breeds are descended from the African wildcat Felis silvestris lybica. It is thought that this cat is the ancestor of all domestic cats. Felis silvestris lybica is a small, slender cat with long legs and pointy ears. This cat is thought to have been domesticated in the Middle East around 10,000 years ago. Cats spread from the Middle East to Europe and then to the Americas. Native American Indians kept cats for their hunting abilities and companionship.

Characteristics of native American cat breeds

Native American cat breeds have a wide range of characteristics. These cats range in size from medium to large and have long, thick fur coats. They are also well-known for their intelligence and independence. Native American cats have strong hunting instincts and are excellent climbers. They are also very vocal cats who enjoy conversing with their owners. It is critical to keep your Native American cat inside. They are not a breed that belongs in the wild or should be allowed to roam freely. They will pursue and kill small animals due to their hunting instinct if left outside.

Siamese cats are distinguished by their slim bodies, pointed ears, and blue eyes. They are also very vocal cats who love to cuddle with their owners.

Maine Coons are among the giant cat breeds, weighing up to 15 pounds. They have a thick fur coat that is ideal for cold weather climates.

Bengals are a new cat breed created by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat with a domestic cat. Their fur has spots or rosettes that give them a rugged appearance. The majority of people are unaware that there are Native American cat breeds.

Why choose native American cat breeds?

There are many different breeds of cats to choose from. While all cats make excellent pets, you should consider getting a native American species. Here are some of the reasons:

1. Native American cat breeds are one-of-a-kind. There are few other places where that can find these breeds. A native American cat is a way to go if you want a one-of-a-kind pet.

2. They are well-known for their friendliness and socialization. They enjoy spending time with humans and are quick to make new friends. As a result, they are ideal pets for families or anyone looking for a friendly feline companion.

3. Native American cat breeds are more connected to their environment than most other cats and people.

4. They are more disease and parasite resistant, making them healthier overall.

5. They are also known for their intelligence and bonding with human families.

Native American cat breeds are among the most stunning in the world. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and each one is unique. A native American cat is an excellent choice for a truly one-of-a-kind pet.

7. Finally, these cats have a long history that dates back centuries. Native Americans have long revered cats for their hunting abilities and mystical powers. When you adopt a native American cat, you are not only getting a pet, but you are also becoming a part of history.

If you want to adopt a cat:What You Should Know Before Adopting a Cat

Popular native American cat breeds

Oriental Longhair cat: A regal-looking cat

The Oriental Longhair is one of the most regal-looking cat breeds on the planet. The long, slender body and graceful movements resemble a jungle cat, and the fur is frequently silky and soft to the touch. While they may appear royalty, Oriental Longhairs are amiable and loving cats. They enjoy being in the company of others and will frequently seek attention and affection. They are also very playful cats, making them ideal for families with children.

It’s no surprise that this American cat breed is known as the “Persian of the East” because of its long, elegant body and a luxurious coat. The Oriental Longhair, despite its regal appearance, is quite playful and outgoing. This native American cat breed is also known for being extremely vocal, so you’ll never be bored in their company! If you’re looking for a beautiful and one-of-a-kind companion, the Oriental Longhair is the breed for you.

American Shorthair cat: A versatile and adaptable kitty

One of the most popular cat breeds in the United States is the American Shorthair. They are well-known for their adaptability and versatility. The American Shorthair is one of the country’s oldest cat breeds. It has been around since the 1700s, and Thomas Jefferson even mentioned it in one of his letters. They are medium-sized, with males weighing 9 to 12 pounds and females weighing 7 to 10 pounds. The coat of an American Shorthair cat is short and dense, and it comes in various colors and patterns, including tabby, calico, and solid white. They are gentle and good-natured, making them ideal companions for families with children.

Though not as vocal as some cat breeds, they are affectionate and make excellent companions. Despite being native to North America, these cats have successfully been introduced into homes worldwide. Despite their laid-back demeanor, American Shorthairs are very active cats. They enjoy playing games and exploring their surroundings and require plenty of space to run and jump. A few hours of playtime daily will keep your American Shorthair happy and healthy. These happy cats are relatively simple to care for. They are also rather disease-resistant. The American Shorthair is an excellent choice if you want a laid-back, affectionate kitty who can adapt to almost any situation!

American Curl cat: A unique breed with curled ears

The American Curl is an excellent choice for a one-of-a-kind cat breed. This American cat breed is distinguished by its curled ears resulting from a natural mutation. American Curls are a medium-sized breed with a 15-20 years lifespan that comes in various colors and patterns. Although not as well-known as some other breeds, American Curls make excellent companions and will stand out in any crowd.

This breed is native to the United States and is one of the world’s few naturally occurring breeds. This breed is well-known for its affectionate and social nature, as well as its distinct appearance. In the 1960s, they discovered the breed in California. Susie Case and her husband Kent mated a black barn cat named Shulamith with a long-haired red Persian cat named Blackberry. This resulted in a litter of kittens with curled ears.

Read more: A Complete Guide To Indian Cat Breeds

Maine Coon cat: The giant domesticated cat breeds

The Maine Coon is a large domesticated cat breed. It is a natural breed that originated in the American state of Maine. The Maine Coon is a big-boned, muscular cat with a thick coat and a large, bushy tail. Males typically weigh 12 to 18 pounds, while females weigh 8 to 12 pounds and can grow four feet long. The Maine Coon is well known for its friendly demeanor and ability to get along with other animals. They are highly loyal to their owners and enjoy spending time with them. Maine Coons are not good indoor-only cats due to their size, but they can adapt to apartment life if given plenty of attention.

They get along well with other animals, kids, and adults. They are an intelligent breed of cat that enjoys playing and having fun. Maine Coons are high-energy creatures who enjoy being active. They enjoy playing and can be mischievous at times. Maine Coons are very playful and can get into a lot of trouble if they don’t get enough attention or exercise.

Savannah cat: Energetic, playful, smart.

The Savannah is a native American cat breed distinguished by its spotted coat. Savannah is an active and playful cat who enjoys being around people. They are also brilliant and can be taught to perform tricks. The Savannah cat is a cross between a domestic cat and an African Serval. Because of their wild heritage, they must be trained to avoid jumping on counters or climbing furniture. They also require a lot of attention from their owners because they are very social and must be with people most of the time.

The Savannah is a large cat, with males weighing between 20 and 30 pounds on average. They have long legs and short tails and are tall and slender. Their coat is spotted or striped and can be any color or combination. Savannahs are active cats who enjoy playing. They are also brilliant and can be taught tricks or to walk on a leash. The Savannah is an excellent choice if you want an energetic, playful, intelligent cat.

LaPerm cat: Smart, friendly, loving.

The LaPerm is a native American cat breed distinguished by its curly fur. The breed is named after the LaPerm Indian tribe of the northwest United States. The LaPerm is a newer cat breed created in the 1980s. The LaPerm is a medium-sized cat, with males weighing 9 to 12 pounds and females weighing 7 to 10 pounds. The breed is distinguished by its wedge-shaped head, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. The LaPerm’s coat can be short or long and comes in various colors and patterns.

LaPerm is a breed distinguished by its wavy, curly fur. LaPerms, despite their rarity, are becoming increasingly popular as pets due to their friendly and loving nature. They are also known for being extremely intelligent and easy to train, making them ideal companions for families with children or other pets. They are also relatively simple to maintain because they do not require much grooming. The LaPerm is an excellent choice if you want a unique cat breed that is sure to turn heads.

Read more: The Top 11 Most Popular Cat Breeds In Hungary

Bengal cat: Talkative, smart, loving.

The Bengal cat is a native American cat breed distinguished by its spotted or marbled coat. The Bengal breed was created by crossing domestic cats with Asian leopard cats. The breeding program, which started in 1963, was thought to be successful, and all Bengal cats today can be traced back to liters from this program.

The Bengal is a confident and talkative cat who always has something to say about what’s going on. And as you might expect from a cat that is so close to its wild ancestors, it likes to climb trees. Bengal cats are also brilliant and loving, making them the ideal companion for any cat lover.

Exotic Shorthair: Fun, sweet, loving.

The Exotic Shorthair is a fairly new American cat breed. It was first made in the 1960s when American Shorthairs and Persians were accidentally mixed.

The Exotic Shorthair weights between 8-12 lbs and can live from 10 to 13 years.

People sometimes call the Exotic Shorthair “the lazy man’s Persian” because it has many of the same traits as the Persian. But they don’t need as much grooming as the Persians. Because the breed has a flat face, tear stains are common. The Exotic Shorthair is sweet and loving, and they are still very playful even as adults.

American Wirehair: Chill, loving, and fun-loving

The American Wirehair breed was started in New York in the 1960s. It started as a natural change in the American Shorthair breed. A kitten born with wirehair on purpose was bred, and the mutation spread. Even though this breed is well-known, most people still consider it rare.

The American Wirehair weighs 8-15 lbs and can live from 7 to 12 years.

American Shorthairs and Wirehairs have the same genes and look alike. People think that wiry fur is easy to take care of because it doesn’t need much grooming. This American cat breed is friendly and gets along with most people and other animals. The Wirehair is just as happy playing as it is curled up on a lap.

American Bobtail: Friendly, playful, loyal.

The American Bobtail is easily recognizable because of its tail, or lack thereof. The length and shape of the tail can vary from cat to cat, though. In the 1960s, a Siamese cat was crossed with a domestic cat with a short tail to make this breed.

The American Bobtail weighs 15-18 lbs and can live from 13 to 17 years.

People often compare the American Bobtail to a Golden Retriever because it is loyal, loving, funny, and sweet. They are good pets for families because they get along with people of all ages and most animals.

Pixie Bob: Intelligent, social, playful.

In the 1980s, the Pixie-Bob is thought to have come from a natural cross between a Bobcat and a barn cat. Since 1994, the breed has been officially recognized. It is almost the same as an American Bobcat but a little smaller.

The Pixie Bob weighs 9-12 lbs and can live from 12 to 17 years.

This breed is a good choice for family pets because they are playful and friendly.

Ocicat: Elegant, expressive, and loving.

In 1964, when breeders tried to make a Siamese with an Abyssinian’s coat, they made a mistake and made an Ocicat instead. The breed grew quickly. It was registered at its first show in 1965, and the Cat Fanciers Association gave it its name in 1966.

The Ocicat weighs 7-15 lbs and can live from 15 to 18 years.

The Ocicat looks like a wild cat and moves with the same grace. This breed is smart enough to learn to come when called and is usually friendly with their family. They will usually get close to everyone in the house, but they may choose one person to get especially close to.

Balinese: Active, smart, and loyal.

The Balinese cat is basically a long-haired Siamese, but purist breeders would never call it that. It was first seen in the 1940s. In the 1950s, breeding programs began, and the breed was recognized for the first time in 1961. Even though the name says “Indonesian,” the breed has nothing to do with Indonesia. It was named “Indonesian” because breeders thought the dogs had the grace of Balinese temple dancers.

The Balinese weighs 5-10 lbs and can live from 10 to 15 years.

The breed is smart and can be taught to come when called and do other simple tricks. They are also very loyal, and they will get close to you and the other members of their family.

Bombay: Strong, smart, friendly.

The Bombay is supposed to look like a small black panther, but sometimes a sable kitten is born. In the 1970s, a Burmese and a black American Shorthair were crossed in Kentucky to make them.

The Bombay weighs 7-12 lbs and can live from 12 to 16 years.

Bombays are adaptable and inquisitive. They will get close to their owner and are fun to play with. As these cats age, they will spend more time around the house in hot and warm spots.

Lykoi: Friendly, loving, sweet.

The Lykoi is a change that happened to a Domestic Shorthair. It wasn’t found until 2011. The coat of this breed is what makes it stand out. It can be completely bald or have few hairs. This makes the breed look like a werewolf.

The Lykoi weighs 8-12 lbs and can live from 12 to 15 years.

The Lykoi is a kind, loving animal that likes to be around people. They are also smart and learn quickly, which makes them great family pets. These American cats are happy to learn games and tricks with their owner.

Ragdolls: Soft, loving, smart.

In the 1960s, the Ragdoll was created by the strange breeder Ann Baker. She said a lot of crazy things about the breed, like that it had human genes and that either aliens or the CIA were involved in its creation.

The Ragdolls weighs 10-17 lbs and can live from 12 to 17 years.

People say that this breed is friendly and loving. They like to cuddle and spend time with their owners. They are smart and can learn tricks and games quickly to please their owners.

Selkirk Rex: Sweet, calm, easygoing

The Selkirk Rex is an American cat breed that happened by chance because of a natural gene change. Because of the Rex mutation, a cat with curly hair was born. The British Shorthair, Persian, and Exotic Shorthair breeds were used to make them even better.

The Pixie Bob weighs 10-16 lbs and can live from 13 to 16 years.

The Selkirk Rex is usually called laid-back, and it is friendly and affectionate. People of all ages can get along with them, as can other cats and friendly dogs. This animal is calm and easy to care for, and it is known to make less of the Fel D1 protein that causes allergic reactions in people who are allergic to cats.