Whether long-haired and fluffy or flat-faced with short ears, many unique cat breeds are not only beautiful but make incredible pets. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes around 70 pedigreed breeds, with some being extremely rare. Take the Egyptian Mau, for instance. There are only 3,000 of these spotted cats worldwide, and they are very difficult to source should you want a kitten. If you are looking for a distinct feline friend, we look at the five rarest cat breeds and where to find them.
1. The Egyptian Mau: An Ancient Breed
The Egyptian Mau is first on our list because there are fewer than 200 kittens registered each year. As the name suggests, the Egyptian Mau originated in Egypt and is easily identified by its naturally spotted coat. Highly regarded in Egypt as being the vessels of spiritual beings, this breed has maintained its loyal and loving personality. Egyptian Maus can be shy, but they form strong bonds with the people closest to them.
To make an Egyptian Mau a part of your home, the first step is to find a reputable and reliable breeder. Upstanding breeders must be registered. For example, the Cat Fanciers’ Association and the International Cat Association are two prominent authorities in the U.S. that pedigreed cats are registered with. Contact your local cat clubs and associations to find a suitable breeder. If you look for an Egyptian Mau breeder online, they should be registered and have good reviews concerning the quality and care of their cats. Remember, you may have to undergo screening and complete an application to ensure you will be the right pet parent.
2. The Scottish Fold: An Earless Breed?
The Scottish Fold is the only cat in the world that has naturally folded or tucked ears. The breed was first discovered in 1961 on a farm in Scotland where a shepherd spotted a white farm cat with unusually small ears. From this single white cat, named Susie, the entire Scottish Fold breed was developed. The folded ears certainly give this breed a distinct appearance, but it is the result of a genetic mutation. Sadly, this mutation is linked to osteochondrodysplasia, a type of arthritis.
Scottish Folds are easy to groom, and they are considered great pets because of their relaxed personalities. But if you are looking for a Scottish Fold kitten, be sure to contact a reputable breeder. Online searches for breeders are convenient, but there is a high risk of being scammed. Before paying a deposit for a kitten, verify the breeder’s details. Are they registered, and do they have references or testimonials from former buyers? Always source Scottish Folds from a trusted cattery to avoid purchasing a cat in poor health or as a mixed breed.
3. American Bobtail: A Mutated Cat Breed
When you first see the American Bobtail, you may think that they’re related to the wild bobcat because of their tiny tails. Despite sharing the stumpy look of their wild cousins, the reason for their lack of a tail is due to a genetic mutation. The American Bobtail cat is fully domesticated, and they’ve become excellent pets, but they are hard to find.
This unique cat breed can be sourced from certified breeders online or in-person from a professional cattery. They should give you the option to visit the cattery without hesitation and provide transparency when you inquire about their cats. It’s uncommon to find these stocky-tailed cats at an animal shelter or adoption agency, but not impossible. Some pet agencies will get adult bobtail cats in for adoption on the odd occasion as they aren’t as rare as other breeds, like the Scottish Fold.
If you are interested in an American bobtail, contact local pet agencies, shelters, and registered breeders in your region.
4. Peterbald Cats: A Fairly New Breed
Peterbald cats are a fairly new breed, originating in Russia in 1994. They are a combination of the Don Sphynx and Oriental Shorthair. The Peterbald is generally hairless but also found in several coat types, including brush (wiry hair) and chamois (a thin fuzz). This rare cat breed is loving, social, and loyal, and these felines have been likened to dogs. While they are considered unique in every way, it isn’t easy finding a Peterbald kitten. In 2021, there were less than 20 Peterbald breeders in North America.
If you are keen on finding a Peterbald cat, start by contacting the International Cat Association (TICA) or search the breeder directory. This website allows you to connect to breeders who have signed a code of ethics regarding breeding practices and quality of care for their pets. Another way to find rare cat breeders is to attend local cat shows. Join social media groups dedicated to rare cat breeds and reach out to people who own Peterbalds and can recommend trustworthy breeders.
5. Minskin: A Hybrid Cat
The Minskin is the munchkin of all cats! Despite being a new breed (recognized in 1998), the Minskin is already capturing the attention and hearts of feline lovers. Miskins are a crossing of the Munchkin cat, Burmese, and Sphynx cats. The result is a large-eared and stocky feline with very short legs. While they almost appear hairless, Minskins actually have a fine fuzzy coat that is soft to the touch. This unique cat breed is very affectionate and sweet, and when socialized from a young age, they tend to get along with all friendly pets.
Despite their growing popularity, it is very difficult to find a Minskin. In 2019, they were included in the TICA registry but cannot be shown. There are very few breeders in the United States and Canada that breed Minskins. However, contacting TICA and local cat associations can reveal reliable breeders along with their screening and adoption processes.
There is something special about the five rarest cat breeds discussed above, but finding them is incredibly hard; that’s because some, such as the Misnkin, are relatively new and won’t be registered with all cat associations.
