12 Cat Breeds with Beautiful Long Hair

Long-haired cats are known for their soft-to-the-touch fur and extra fluffiness, which is why they are so popular. But why are some cats born with longer length fur? "The gene carrying the long hair trait in cats is recessive," explains Dr. Laura Robinson, veterinary advisor at Pawp. "In simple terms, this means that the result of a short-haired cat mating with a long-haired will only be short-haired kittens, not long-haired. But if the short-haired cats were to mate with each other, a few long-haired kittens might be born." There are some cat breeds, however, that tend to have longer hair in general.

Cats that live in colder climates may have developed long-haired traits as a means to stay warm. The triple coat for the Siberian helps to get this natural breed warm in the brutal cold temperatures of Siberia in Russia. Whereas, the Norwegian Forest Cat also has a thick, heavy coat for protection against the cold winter temperatures in its homeland Scandinavia. For domestic cats in warmer climates, the long hair may not be as dense but still adds some insulation from an afternoon swim the drop in temperature after nightfall.

At home, it should be noted that cats with longer fur often need regular grooming to keep their coats clean, well-kept, and soft. Some of these breeds may also shed more than others, so people with allergies may not be able to adopt one of these adorable cats without preparation. If you're ready to adopt one of these beauties, here's how to find the breed for you.

Of all the long-haired cats, the Persian cat is one of the most popular breeds of all time. This feline beauty has luxurious fur and an adorable flat face. These cats are "quiet, affectionate, happy to just be in your lap, easy-going, and one of the oldest cat breeds," says Dr. Robinson. Despite being low-maintenance in personality, their white coats can be high-maintenance—a daily brushing is necessary.

The Maine Coon is another one of the most popular long-haired cat breeds. Born in the United States and hailing from Maine, these long-haired cats are sturdy and rugged with a rich, shaggy coat that helps them to withstand cold winters or even a swim in the ocean waters—hence its legendary companionship among fishermen.

While the Turkish Angora is mostly seen as an all-white cat, the breed comes in a variety of coat colors. This medium-sized cat will win your heart with its playful personality and loyalty. These cats often have longer life spans, too, if they are kept indoors, stay generally healthy, and have a good diet.

A long-haired version of the Abyssinian, the Somali cat has a coat that's reddish-brown or cinnamon in color. They are an active breed prone to even rambunctious behavior—clawing at curtains and couches—but they are highly trainable and make a fun companion with dutiful exercise.

While the Birman was recognized as a breed in the United States in 1959, their history and development tends to be a mystery. However, nothing is mysterious about their beauty: Birmans are considered to be "colorpoint cats," which means that they are born with all-white fur that gradually develops some color as they grow up.

Gentle and gorgeous—that's the Ragdoll cat. Luckily, these cats are very clean, apt in grooming themselves, and may only need bathing every now and then. Ragdolls enjoy their grooming and will often show their enjoyment with all the special attention.

The York Chocolate breed was named after New York state, where it was established in 1983. And as the name implies, these cats have a brown undercoat beneath semi-longhaired black fur. York Chocolate cats enjoy cuddling time with their human owners and will likely follow you around all day.

Related to its Shorthair cousin, the British Longhair looks and behaves similarly but has longer fur. Their teddy-bear appearance—with a rounded face and fluffy appendages—makes them a popular breed for adoption, and they are sociable enough for families with children or other animals.

Known as the Skogkatt in its native country, the Norwegian Forest Cat makes a good family pet. They are affectionate and undemanding, although their long coats require upkeep. Because of their long water-shedding coats and dense undercoats, these cats need brushing at least twice a week and possibly more during seasons of heavy shedding.

The Balinese breed is variation of the traditional Siamese cat that features the admirable traits of the older breed, but in a fluffier form: They are sociable, intelligent, and actively vocal with their owners. Their medium-to-long coats are white or cream in color.

The Siberian is native to Russia and because they come from the cold conditions of the Siberian landscape, these cats have developed a thick triple coat that is also water-resistant. In fact, this cat is known for wading out into the water for a swim. Brush their coats at least three times a week and bathing may sometimes be necessary.

The Himalayan cat has a high requirement for grooming and tends to look large because of her 8- to 12-pound physique and massive amounts of fur. Himalayans are also related to Persian cats and tend to be a popular cat for homes because they are "placid, calm, sometimes have bursts of kitten-like energy, and are generally very friendly," says Dr. Robinson.