Things to Consider Before Buying a Persian Cat

Persian Cat Background

Persian cats, those gloriously-maned creatures, were brought to Europe from the Middle East by traders. Caravans passing through Western Europe would carry exotic wares, jewels, gold, and carpets, but what really attracted the eye of the Europeans was none other than the beautiful Persian cat.

Of unparalleled beauty, the Persian cat was and is a sight to behold. However, it does possess a temperament that can be slightly difficult to manage. Once you capture the heart of your Persian, it is yours forever to keep.

I've owned a lovely cameo-colored Persian named Capsurr for three years now and wanted to share some information about what you should think about before getting a Persian based on my experience.

What to Know About Persian Cats Before You Buy

There are many factors that go into making the decision to purchase a Persian cat. These include:

1. Initial Cost

Persian cats are expensive! A typical breeder can charge up to and over $800 for a healthy kitten.

2. Color

It can be difficult to procure the color of kitten you desire most. Grays and beiges seem to be the most popular. If you would like your cat to be a certain color, be patient. You may not get your purrfect kitty for a while!

3. Breeders

Bear in mind that you may need to develop a working relationship with a breeder out of state or even out of the country in order to get a Persian cat! Shipping costs can be expensive! Some breeders might wish to have an ongoing relationship with you, and some may also have restrictions they write into a contract, such as not surgically removing your cat's nails.

4. Cat Shows

Go to a CFA Persian cat show. This is your opportunity to meet other Persian cat breeders. It's possible there may even be some kittens available for sale at the show.

5. CFA Breed Registration

Remember, it's not a Persian cat unless it is CFA registered. This means that the bloodline has been determined and established. If you buy a kitten, make sure to register your cat right away. Unfortunately, even if it looks Persian, it isn't unless it has the proper documentation.

6. Brushing

Persian cats require daily brushing. Are you ready to brush your kitty daily? If your Persian cat is cotton-furred, which is a very soft type of fur, this is especially important as it can knot and become nappy. If the fur knots around the belly and under the arms and legs, it can pull at their tender skin.

7. Bathing

Ideally, Persians require monthly baths. In some cases, a degreaser is used. I've heard of some people using baby powders to take away oils and untangle knots. Sometimes a color enhancer is also used. I use a purple shampoo for my Persian to brighten the color and make very sure not to get it on his face.

For a darker Persian, a different color enhancer should be used. After the color enhancer, use shampoo and conditioner. Grooming techniques vary, but eventually you will find one which suits you and your kitty. However you do it, monthly bathing is essential to keeping your cat's coat clean and free of tangles.

8. Expected Grooming Costs

Even if you brush your Persian cat daily, you may find that you have to bring your Persian to the groomers every six months to a year. Are you prepared to spend around $70 per visit once or twice a year?

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9. Flat-Faced vs. Traditional-Faced Persians

There are two types of Persian: flat-faced and traditional. The one we as Americans are most familiar with is the flat-faced variety. This is actually an Americanized variety and not necessarily the true variety. It all comes down to personal preference.

10. Issues Pertaining to Persian Eye and Nasal Drainage

Flat-faced Persians are cute, but they can have serious eye drainage around their faces, as well as nasal stuffiness. Some flat-faced Persians face health issues in the long run. Traditional Persians have a nose structure that allows proper drainage.

Please note, the flatter the face on your Persian, the higher likelihood it may experience allergies and colds. Traditional Persian cats require some amount of cleaning as well, as they are prone to eye muck.

11. Persians as Indoor Cats

Persians are one of the most domesticated of all cats. They should not be outdoor cats. They were once owned by kings and concubines and deserve a quiet life, which is the life they were raised for. Although I've seen an outdoor Persian, it is not something that aligns with their natural constitution.

If you own a Persian, it is your right to keep your cat as you like. But please consider that Persians tend to be very soft in body composition, as well as temperamental and nervous about danger and loud noises—not exactly the proper making for an alley cat. Not to mention, the nose structures of a Persian leave it vulnerable to infection from outdoor pollutants and dust.

Also, a groomer once told me that Persians who are left to roam outside and whose fur is not tended to frequently enough often arrive at her shop with maggots under the knots and naps. My two cents: keep your Persian indoors!

Comments

AVNI on July 27, 2020:

Give your persian cat time as it expects you to treat it like royal cause as its aid they were owned by kings....if you work too much than that persian wont be really happy although they like to be left alone and wint much like kisses and hugs.

Ik on November 07, 2019:

Its necessary to keep in cold place without ac we can kept in home

Karine on April 24, 2019:

What about all the breed specific diseases such as Polycystic Kidney Disease? You need to choose your Breeder wisely.

Anna Bionaha on January 28, 2018:

I think that it is wrong for people to smoosh the Persian cats noses in cause I think that the cats DO NOT like it either. Also they can not breath well at all and causes a lot of problems. I think they are more beautiful as they were meant to be and I am very frustrated and angry. I do NOT LIKE IT AT ALL! So I think we should leave animals the way they were supposed to be.Anna out! Thank you for listening.

Ann on April 21, 2017:

About my loves

Brein Nicole on April 09, 2017:

I hate that you suggested breeders and didn't mention rescues, as it's a perfectly respectable option. Breeders are the main reason for overpopulation and pet euthanasia.

Al on January 10, 2017:

My 8 year old white persion (sp) died in his sleep he goes to the vet 4-5 tines a year they give him a little medication so the can check his teeth and heart. He just died in. His sleep beside me to day. I thought he was sleeping I came bake 1 hr latter and he was dead. What happened. I asked for an autopsy they said at 8 they pass away. Is that true

soraya ally on January 10, 2017:

at what age can i start giving my persian kitten bathes. my kittn is currently 5weeks old

farsad on November 22, 2016:

Is a 45 months kitten ready to live in a new home

or does it need more time with its mother?

Dolly on January 10, 2016:

I have two Persian sisters which I bought as kittens 10 years ago. I absolutely adore them. They have a lovely temperament and are very loving. I agree with the article in that they are high maintenance, their coats knot easily and one of my cats eyes run constantly. They do like a quiet life and I wouldn't dream of letting my cats out unless I'm watching them. However, I've bathed my cats twice in 10 years (this was in the first year as I thought that's what I should be doing) and definitely do not feel the need to do this again. They absolutely hated it and I couldn't bear to stress them out unnecessarily. They have an annual check up at the vets and are in great health, possibly because I feed them the best cat food and cook chicken for them :-) Please don't bath your cat the sake of it, regular brushing is all they need in my opinion.

Brenda Smith on May 23, 2015:

I am looking to purchase a Persian kitten. My contact # 864-985-0828

in S.C..

Harlin Quincy on April 30, 2015:

You should definitely learn to brush your cat regularly, especially if you get a long haired one like this. All cats need brushing, but cats like maine coons and persians are long hair and will have many issues with matted hair. Cat's can only groom themselves so much, and the more hair, the harder it is for them. http://www.boutiquekittens.com/Shop-Teacup-Persian...

wahid on April 11, 2015:

I want persian cat

Iber on March 14, 2014:

But How did the Persians with the flat face?

Are mixed with the Pallas cat?

By selection?? Were they selected cats with slightly shorter face until the very flat face persian?

Blanca on March 14, 2014:

Persian are beautiful cats

European on October 19, 2013:

Flat-faced vs Traditional-faced Persians: ..." It is not necessarily the true variety. It all comes down to personal preference."

If you can call something true variety, that is the traditional persian.

The american its nothing related to the persians that come to Europe, and here are not much popular

kuldeep on March 11, 2013:

my friend just gave me a persian cat and the problem is her mom passed away and she is so small (14) days i don't know anything about the feeding of cats i only now about dogs .... can u just help me out plz

Rudolph.A.Furtado on March 09, 2010:

Having owned a "Traditional Persian cat" and being successful in breeding them have made me realise that the "Persian cat" is "Royalty personified" akin to "Pekingeese dogs". Your article is extremely informative to the "Cat Fancier" as well as first time "Cat Owner".

NoMan on March 28, 2009:

Thanks a lot for the information. This has been very helpful. Nice write up.

Purrinlot Persian Cats and Kittens on June 18, 2008:

You have included a lot of wonderful information on the Persian cat breed. Grooming is one of the number one issues where Persian cats are concern! Most people feel a combing here and there is all they need to do- but baths too are required. A Cat Bath once per month, will keep the Persian free from knots! Happy Purring <purr> Blessings Laura- A CFA Persian Breeder of Top awarding winning Persians:-)

Stephanie Marshall from Bend, Oregon on June 17, 2008:

Beautiful cats and nice job on the hub!

About-The-Home on June 17, 2008:

Hi Lilly

Lots of info on Persians - thanks for that.

Is this a picture of your cat? You might be better placing it higher up the hub, it might get overlooked down below the comments. Some more pictures would also be nice.

I once owned a "Persian" - no papers, and yes grooming was a problem.