The Fascinating History of the Top 7 Most Popular Pedigree Cat Breeds

Today, we’re diving into the history of the top 7 most popular pedigree cat breeds. These are the cats that have stolen hearts all over the world, and their stories are just as captivating as their purrs. Walk through the origins and journeys of these feline friends in a way that’s easy to read and fun to explore. Let’s get started!

This list is based on the latest trends from the pedigree registry Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and other sources I’ve come across. The top 7 breeds making waves right now are the Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Exotic, British Shorthair, Persian, Devon Rex, and Abyssinian. Each one has a unique tale to tell, so grab a cup of tea (or a catnip toy for your kitty), and let’s travel back in time to see where these breeds came from.

If you’re shopping for a new cat, be sure you’re getting an authentic Pedigree cat. Learn how in our blog post.

1. Maine Coon: The Gentle Giant from New England

The Maine Coon is hands-down the most popular breed. These cats are like the gentle giants of the cat world—big, fluffy, and so friendly you can’t help but fall in love. I’ll never forget the first time I met one at a cat show. This massive cat was sprawled out on a table, purring like a motorboat while people scratched behind its tufted ears. It was like meeting a little lion with the heart of a teddy bear!

The Maine Coon comes from Maine, where it’s the official state cat. Its history is full of fun stories. Some folks used to say it came from a cat and a raccoon mixing, which is impossible but makes me giggle. Another tale ties it to Marie Antoinette, the French queen. The story goes that she sent her fancy Turkish Angora cats to America when she tried to escape the French Revolution, and they bred with local cats in Maine.

Truth is, the Maine Coon probably started when short-haired local cats mixed with long-haired cats brought over by sailors or maybe even Vikings way back in the day. By the 1800s, these big beauties were strutting their stuff at cat shows in New England. They took a bit of a backseat when flashier breeds like the Persian showed up, but in the 1950s, breeders brought them back into the spotlight. Now, they’re known for their size (some get up to 25 pounds!), bushy tails, and super sweet personalities. If you’ve got room for a big cat with a big heart, the Maine Coon might be your match.

2. Ragdoll: The Cuddly Cat with a Cool Story

Next up is the Ragdoll, and oh my goodness, these cats are something special. They’re like living teddy bears—soft, cuddly, and totally chill. I’ve had Ragdolls flop into my arms like they’re saying, “Hug me!” It’s no wonder they’re so popular!

The Ragdoll story starts in the 1960s with a lady named Ann Baker in California. She had a white long-haired cat named Josephine who got hit by a car. After that, Josephine’s kittens were super calm and floppy. Ann thought that was pretty cool, so she started breeding them to keep that relaxed vibe. She named them Ragdolls because they go limp like a rag doll when you pick them up.

These cats caught on fast with their gorgeous blue eyes and silky coats. They love being around people—seriously, they’ll follow you from room to room just to hang out. The CFA said “yes” to the breed in 1993, and they’ve been climbing the popularity charts ever since. If you want a cat that’s more like a best buddy than just a pet, a Ragdoll could be perfect for you.

3. Exotic: The Easy-Going Beauty

Now, let’s talk about the Exotic—or as some call it, the Exotic Shorthair. This breed is like the Persian’s laid-back cousin. I’ve always loved Persians, but their long fur can be a lot to handle. The Exotic gives you that same cute, squishy face and sweet personality, but with a short coat that’s way easier to care for.

Back in the 1950s and 60s, breeders wanted a cat that looked like a Persian without all the grooming. So, they crossed American Shorthairs with Persians, and voilà—the Exotic was born. It’s got that round head and big eyes, but the coat is plush and short. The CFA gave it the green light in 1967, and people have been hooked ever since.

I once met an Exotic at a friend’s house who loved chasing little toys around. It was so playful but still had that calm Persian vibe. They’re great for folks who want a beautiful cat without spending hours brushing. If that sounds like you, the Exotic might be your new favorite.

4. British Shorthair: The Steady Classic

The British Shorthair is like that reliable friend who’s always there for you. These cats have round faces, thick coats, and a chill attitude that makes them so easy to love. I’ve seen them at shows just sitting there, looking like little teddy bears, totally unbothered by the crowd.

Their history goes way back to when the Romans brought cats to Britain to keep mice away. Those cats mixed with local wild cats over hundreds of years, turning into the sturdy British Shorthairs we know today. In the 1800s, they started showing up in cat shows and became a big hit. Things got tough after World War II, and they almost disappeared, but breeders worked hard to bring them back.

The CFA welcomed them in 1980, and they’ve been a steady favorite ever since. They’re not super clingy, but they’ll still cuddle up when they feel like it. If you want a cat that’s low-drama and high-charm, the British Shorthair is a winner.

5. Persian: The Fancy Feline Star

If there’s a cat that screams “fancy,” it’s the Persian. These cats are stunning with their long, silky fur and flat faces. I’ve spent hours brushing Persians at the cattery, and they just sit there like little royals, soaking up the attention. They’re a big deal in 2025, and it’s easy to see why.

Persians come from Persia—now Iran—way back in the old days. They made their way to Europe in the 1600s, and people like queens and kings couldn’t get enough of them. Breeders in England and America made their coats even longer and their faces flatter over time. By the late 1800s, they were stars at cat shows, and the CFA recognized them in 1906.

They’re super calm and love lounging around, which makes them perfect lap cats. But that fur? It’s a commitment! If you’re ready to pamper a cat that looks like it stepped out of a painting, a Persian might be calling your name.

6. Devon Rex: The Playful Pixie

The Devon Rex is one of those breeds that just makes you smile. They’re little mischief-makers with curly coats, big ears, and a personality that’s full of fun. I’ve watched a Devon Rex leap onto shelves like it’s auditioning for a circus—it’s impossible not to laugh!

This breed started in the 1960s in Devonshire, England. A stray cat with a wavy coat showed up, and breeders thought, “Hey, that’s different!” They worked to make more cats like it, mixing it with other breeds. The CFA said “hello” to the Devon Rex in 1983, and it’s been winning fans ever since.

These cats are smart and love to play. They’ll follow you around, climb stuff, and keep you entertained. If you’re after a cat that’s more like a goofy little buddy, the Devon Rex is a blast.

7. Abyssinian: The Wild-Looking Wonder

Finally, we’ve got the Abyssinian. These cats look like they belong in the wild with their sleek bodies and spotted coats, but they’re total softies at heart. I’ve seen Abyssinians zoom around the house, checking out everything like little detectives—they’re so curious!

Some say Abyssinians go back to ancient Egypt because they look like the cats in old paintings. But really, the breed we know today started in England in the 1800s. Cats from Abyssinia—now Ethiopia—might have been brought over, and breeders shaped them into the Abyssinians we love. They hit the cat show scene in the 1870s and got CFA approval in 1906.

They’re super active and smart, always up for a game or a puzzle. If you want a cat that keeps things lively, an Abyssinian is a fantastic pick.

Wrapping It Up

Wow, what a journey through cat history! These top 7 breeds—Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Exotic, British Shorthair, Persian, Devon Rex, and Abyssinian—are ruling the cat world for good reason. Each one brings something special to the table, whether it’s the Maine Coon’s big-hearted nature or the Abyssinian’s wild energy. Their stories show how much we’ve loved and shaped cats over the years.

If you’re thinking about adding one of these beauties to your family, take some time to learn more about what they need. If you’re brand new to Pedigree cats, then take a quick peek at the Basics of pedigree cats. Thanks for reading, and let me know in the comments which breed you’d pick!