1. Home
  2. Cat
  3. General

10 Rare Cat Breeds

Kathy Blumenstock
By Kathy Blumenstock
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025
rare cat breeds - laperm

Photo by iStock.com/Nils Jacobi

Who’s the rarest cat of all? According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, all pedigreed cats can be considered rare. In fact, the CFA estimates just two to four percent of owned cats have pedigrees.

But while cat lovers can recognize a Siamese with ease, or pick a Persian out of a lineup, the characteristics of more exotic felines elude us. Joan Miller, who chairs the CFA’s Outreach and Education, and who’s judged rare cats at shows nationwide, graciously gave us a crash course highlighting 10 special breeds. “I have judged and known all of these breeds, and feel if they were better known they would be extremely popular as pets,” says Miller. “Each has tremendous beauty as well as appealing personality.”

American Wirehair


rare cat breed american wirehair

via Shutterstock

Described as similar in type and personality to the American Shorthair, with quiet, loving traits, the name says it all—this cat has a unique crimped, coarse coat. But that distinctive wiry fur is rare even in litters from two Wirehair parents. Joan says that only 90 percent of those kittens and just half of any outcross litter will be “wired.” The American Wirehair’s special mutation hasn’t yet been reported in any other country.

American Bobtail


American Bobtail

L. Johnson via Cat Fanciers' Association

They may look wild, but the American Bobtail is a pure domestic cat, with its natural short tail and muscular appearance. Its playful, loving nature and easy-going ways make it a fitting companion for other cats, dogs and humans. American Bobtails reached CFA championship status in 2006. “I have no idea why they are not as well known as Maine Coons or why there are so few breeders in the US,” says Miller. She believes the American Bobtail’s temperament will soon catch on with many American families.

Burmilla


rare cat breed - Burmilla

via Shutterstock

With its sparkly silvery coat and markings resembling eyeliner on its sweetly expressive face, the Burmilla was developed in England. An unplanned mating of a British Chinchilla Longhair (Persian) to a Burmese in 1981 resulted in the breed, which is popular in Great Britain but is still relatively rare in the States. The breed reached CFA Championship Status this year. “Before long, we should see more registrations and recognition because of the consistent elegance and sweetness of these cats,” says Miller.

Korat


rare cat breed - korat

via Shutterstock

One of the world’s oldest and rarest, even in the 14th century when they lived in monasteries in the Kingdom of Siam, the Korat cat was considered “good luck” and given only rarely to members of the Thai government or foreign government representatives as a special expression of honor. If you’ve ever spotted one of these beauties, with its shimmering blue coat tipped with silver, consider yourself lucky. They are rarely seen at cat shows. Joan describes the Korat as a “real homebody, not fond of loud noise and extremely sensitive to smells.” The gentle, smart Korat cherishes its owners and familiar surroundings.

Havana Brown


rare cat breed - havana brown

via Shutterstock

A chocolate brown cat with pretty green eyes, this affectionate feline is striking in looks and outgoing in personality. First developed in England, the Havana Brown arrived in the US in 1950. Joan says because the breed is a single color, it began to lose “overall hardiness” by the late 90s. The CFA Breeds and Standards Committee developed, with the help of a geneticist, a plan to increase genetic diversity. Thanks to their work, the Havana Brown has rebounded in the last 15 years.

Ragamuffin


rare cat breed - ragamuffin

via Shutterstock

The Ragamuffin is relatively new to CFA, having been accepted for registration in 2003 and for Championship showing just three years ago. With big eyes and coats as soft as a rabbit’s, Ragamuffins “originated from street cats and are an offshoot of the popular Ragdoll breed with similar characteristics but only in pointed colors,” explains Miller. This breed’s lush coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, not prone to matting or clumping. Noted for its large size, heavy bone and strength, Ragamuffins come in every color.

Turkish Van


rare cat breed turkish van

iStock.com/Michel VIARD

Nicknamed ‘the swimming cat’ for its love of water, this longhaired beauty sports a cashmere-textured coat that is water-resistant and doesn’t mat. Dating back to the 1800s, the cats were originally seen in the Lake Van region of Eastern Turkey, and were known for the striking auburn red of their tails and heads. The Turkish Van was brought to England in 1955, but didn’t reach American shores until the early 80s. “It was difficult to acquire cats for breeding in the US because, for many years, the Turkish Government started a breeding program to preserve the cats and wouldn’t allow kittens to be taken from their country,” Miller says. Intelligent, curious and agile, the treasured Turkish Van is prized as a lovely companion cat.

LaPerm


rare cat breed - LaPerm

L. Johnson via The Cat Fanciers' Association

With humble beginnings in 1982—the very first LaPerm, named Curly, was a barn cat! This breed’s fur is as soft and wavy as a poodle’s coat. Curly passed along her curls and “marvelous gentle temperament” to her offspring, Joan says. Often bald at birth, LaPerm kittens quickly grow a rippled coat, Joan says. The LaPerm’s unique coat may be either short or long-haired, in virtually every cat color.

Learn more about the LaPerm breed.

Bombay


Bombay

L. Johnson via The Cat Fanciers' Association

The desire to produce a miniature version of the sleek wild panther prompted the hybrid matings of black American Shorthair cats with the sable-color Burmese in the early 1950s. With its sleek ebony body, the Bombay certainly resembles the wild big cat that inspired it. The Bombay reached CFA championship status in 1976, but remains rare, Joan says, because the breed standard and temperament “is almost identical to the Burmese itself except for slightly longer body and leg length and jet black coat.” Playful, affectionate and easily leash-trained, the black beauty Bombay is prized for its rich coppery eye color and congenial ways with people and other pets.

Balinese


balinese

via Shutterstock

Perhaps familiar because it is the long-haired version of the beloved Siamese, the Balinese sports Siamese-like colorpoint markings and brilliant blue eyes. Joan says the breed remains rare because with the traditional Siamese breed used as an outcross to maintain its distinctive slim, graceful body type, Balinese litters often will not have any long-haired kittens, making it difficult to have cats for showing. With a feathery plume of a tail, the silky-coated Balinese is affectionate, like Siamese cats, but is not quite as vocal.

Kathy Blumenstock is owned by cats, loved by dogs, writes about both, and still longs for a horse.

Attributions


Kathy Blumenstock

Kathy Blumenstock

Kathy Blumenstock is owned by cats, loved by dogs, writes about both, and still longs for a horse.
Related articles
  • Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat
    Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat

  • What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?
    What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?

  • Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 
    Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 

  • 12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
    12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      Dog DealsNew Dog SuppliesPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      Elevate your puppy's diet. Get adventure-ready with ORIJEN puppy. Shop now.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Help support their urinary health with Royal Canin Urinary nutrition. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals
      • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
      • 1-800-672-4399
      • United States
      • About
      • Investor Relations
      • Affiliates
      • Jobs
      • FAQs
      • Learn
      • Give Back
      • Gift Cards
      • Sell on Chewy
      Download iOS appDownload Android app
      Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
      • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
      • Terms of Use
      • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
      • Interest-Based Ads
      • Accessibility
      • California Supply Chains Act
      • Vendor Compliance
      Download phone image
      Get the Chewy app
      Download iOS appDownload Android app
      We're here 24/7
      1-800-672-4399
      United States
      Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
      Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
      California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
      About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
      Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy