Types & Characteristics

Persians come in many colors and patterns. From a solid color such as white, red, cream, black, blue-gray, chocolate (which is rare), Lilac/grayish purple (which is also rare) and calico (black, red & white), dilute calico (blue, cream, & white), tortoiseshell (black & red), blue cream, chocolate cream (very rare) and lilac cream (also rare). There are also Pointed colors which have colors on the face, ears, legs, tail with white body. All colors are called the same just add the word "point" after it except deep brown is called seal point, red is called flame point. Then we have the Shaded & Smoke which are white undercoat with colored tips to the fur.

Eye colors vary from gold, copper, green and blue. There are also Odd-eyed, which are two different colored eyes, but those are usually only found on white cats.

Body- The ideal Persian should be well proportioned and of medium to large size. The body should be compact and broad, with heavily-boned short legs. Heavy bone and good muscle tone. Back should be short and level with a well-rounded midsection. Shoulders and hips should be same size.

Head- The head of the Persian should be massive that is rounded from every view, whether looking full face or in profile, the nose and the chin should appear to form a perpendicular line. Cheeks should be full and prominent. Jaws: board and powerful. The nose should be short to very short with a well marked break preferably between the eyes. Perfect tooth occlusion. Ears should be small, round-tipped and well tufted. They should be set very wide apart and rather low on the head. The eyes should be round and large with an open expression and set wide apart. Color in accordance to coat color but vivid and brilliant preferred.

(Note: The flat face is NOT a genetic defect or health problem! Yes, they tear and sometimes snore, but it does not mean that there is something wrong with them!)

Legs and Feet- Legs should be short, thick and heavily-boned. Feet should be large, round and firm with toes close together; five toes in front and four behind.

Tail- The tail should be short but in proportion to body length, carried at an angle lower than the back.

Coat- The soft glossy coat should be long and full to stand from the body. It should be long over the entire body. Ruff should be immense and continue in a deep frill between the front legs. Toe tufts should be long also. Tail plume very full.

Condition- The cat should be firm in flesh but NOT fat. The preparation is of extra importance for the owners of the Persians since the impression of the coat is predominant. Cleaning and grooming regularly.