General Description
Persian cats are beautiful, social and harmless pet animal. It is also called Iranian cats or Shirizi cats. The scientific name of this pet animal is Felis catus. Persians have silky shiny fur, round face, glowing eyes and long hairs on whole body. The cats are generally famous for quiet and sweet behaviors. They usually sought permission on entering to gathering. Although, valid reason of its long hair is not known, however, the scientists declared it as a result of natural mutation.
Origin
In 1626, an Italian citizen Mr. Pietro Della Valle introduced a long-haired cat in Europe at the first time. Probably, it was brought to Europe by traders from Middle East. In the beginning, these cats were known as Asiatic cats and available in one color. The credit goes to Persian scientists, who developed its breed. Now, Persians are found in different colors including bi-color.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of this cat is fifteen years. More than 76% of cats live up to 12 years and 52% of cats live 15 years or more. England veterinary department has declared their average lifespan from 14-17 years. The weight of Persians generally lies between 7 to 12 pounds.
Classification of Persians
In early 17th century, only one type of Persian cats had come into surface, which developed with the passage of time. Presently, there are more than 100 recognized types of Persians, which further distributed into following four main groups:-
1. Group-1. The cats of first group have monochrome hair. Their hair is of the same color from tip to root.
2. Group-2. Persian cats of second group have suppressor gene.
3. Group-3. The cats of third group have Himalayan gene.
4. Group-4. The cats of fourth and last group have agouti gene.
Type of Persian Cats
There are some differences among various international cat associations in classification of Persians. All associations have their own opinion in origin, traits and classification. However, there are main three type of Persian cats i.e. Himalayan, Exotic and Persian. Some scientists have also narrated following types:-
• Himalayan.
• Exotic.
• Persians and Angoras.
• Traditional Persians.
• Peke-face and ultra-typing.
• Toy and teacup sizes.
• Chinchilla Longhair and Sterling.
• Coloration.
Food of Persians
Persian cat belongs to Mammalia class and a carnivore animal. She feeds milk to her kittens. Persians cannot sustain life without consuming meat in some form. Goat milk, pumpkin, fish and vitamin are the best food for Persians. Cats should never be given alcohol or alcoholic beverages, sugar and onions because it can cause serious health problems for them.
Diseases of Persians
Persians generally suffers from following diseases:-
1. Breathing difficulties / problems.
2. Dental problems
3. Kidney diseases
4. Skin problems
5. Excessive tearing
6. Eye diseases
7. Fungal infection
Care and Maintenance
The department explained the cause of death of Persian cats. They are on the opinion that Persians have large round skull, shortened face and nose, which creates difficulties in breathing. The cats usually suffer from breath difficulties due to their facial structure. Moreover, Persians have long hairs, which need regular care and maintenance to prevent matting. They must be bathed and dried carefully on daily basis. Their eyes may be cleaned regularly in order to prevent them from eye diseases.
Personality and Behaviors
Persian cat is a beautiful, calm, sweet and gentle natured pet animal. She enjoys the company of peaceful people. Persian cats are calm in nature but have also a playful side. Cats have strict enmity with dogs.
Pre-Purchase Measures
Some important pre-purchase measures are as under:-
1. Cost of cat.
2. Color combination of Persians.
3. Keep good relations with breeders.
4. Visit to a CFA cat show.
5. CFA registered breed.
6. Keep yourself ready for bathing and brushing on daily basis.
7. Choice between flat-faced or traditional-faced cat.
Keeping of Cats in Islam
Islam is a complete religion and way of life, in which everything is clear. Islamic tradition and society has given respect to cats for their cleanliness. Islam has allowed cats to enter the homes of Muslims, mosques and even in Masjid al-Haram. Islam has permitted Muslims to keep cats in the house being not harmful or impure (Najas). Cats are useful pet animal because they eat snakes, rats and other harmful bugs. The great Sahabi Abu Hurayrah (father of the kitten) was called because of his love with cats.