Many people go for a white, grey, ginger cat as, in many cultures, a black cat indicates terrible luck! However, in certain cultures, a black cat symbolizes luck. Although you might have heard many stories about the cutest black cat breed, we are here to change your perception. For us, color doesn’t matter! Black cats are the sweetest feline companions, like any other color in cat breeds.
Although, to this day, some have some misconceptions and superstitions about black cats, other people are opening their homes to these exotic-looking breeds. Thanks to social media, many people keep black cats, showing how much they deserve our love. It’s high time that we make our choices suitable despite the color.
There is a variety of black cat breeds and some fascinating choices. Here are the most adopted black cat breeds.
Reference: @FactsaboutCatsVideos
21 Cutest Black Cat Breeds You’ll want to pet
Ojos Azules
This breed of black cat is native to America, and its name translates to “blue eyes.” For some reason, black and blue seem to go perfectly, and this feline, with its deep blue eyes, will win the hearts of whoever looks at it.
Ojos Azules is an active shorthair breed of cat and is very playful. However, it doesn’t require much attention, so it makes the perfect companion to the average office worker who won’t be able to give it much time, but even the little time they provide will be enough.
Because of their medium or short coat, this black cat breed does not require much brushing as their shedding is much less than other breeds. However, regularly keeping their teeth, eyes, and ears clean is essential.
Another American native cat breed is a cross between the Sable Burmese and the American Jap. It is also called “the panther.” The distinctive feature of Bombay is that it has copper-coloured eyes. It has short hair, a black coat, and a medium, stocky build.
This cat does not mind voicing its ideas and will vocally communicate with you if they need anything. Furthermore, this breed demands a lot of attention and is quite active. You can teach this cat plenty of fun tricks and interactive games.
Another black cat breed known as the Bombay cat is usually a healthy cat, but it is essential to check with the breeder if there are any potential health conditions in the line.
York Chocolate Cat
Native to America, this breed can grow to be anywhere between medium and large size. It has a stocky body type with a rounded head and long muzzle. Its appearance is similar to the Siamese breed of cats.
The York Chocolate Cat has a longhair, chocolate-coloured coat which only looks brown under the proper lighting. From afar, it seems like a longhaired black cat. It requires a bit more attention than the average tabby cat and is quite active. Furthermore, this is not a very talkative breed of cat and will rely more on signals to get its message through than its voice.
Exotic Shorthair
This breed of cat is very similar to the Persian in terms of appearance but that’s where the similarities end. The Exotic Shorthair is an adorable breed of black cat with a short hair coat. It has a stocky, medium build and a chubby face that everyone adores. It is among the lazier breeds of cats and doesn’t enjoy too much activity. Furthermore, this breed requires quite a high amount of attention so it can become troublesome to manage from time to time.
American Bobtail
American Bobtail is one of the cutest breeds as the cat has a short bobtail on a rectangular body. This black cat breed has a wild look which makes them distinctive. The American Bobtail is a very friendly breed. They not only entertain you and your family in happy times but also provides you comfort when you’re upset by playing with you.
This breed is also very active because of their hunting instincts, which you can notice by their jumping habit when they catch flying insects in the air. We can believe that black cat breeds bring good luck when we see this adorable and easy-going American bobtail breed.
American Curl
The American Curl Breed is known for its curled ears. The ears are curled back which gives this black cat a unique expression. The American Curl is known to be one of the youngest cat breeds. A Shulamith stray cat gave birth to a litter of four kittens and that’s how an American Curl breed originated because the dominant gene is curly ears.
In the 80s, the cat fanciers started breeding the American Curl after which the Cat Fanciers Association registered it in 2986. This breed is very energetic and friendly and is always up for playing.
American Shorthair
Shorthairs are known to be the greatest house cats. They are very playful and won’t throw any tantrums. Their size varies between 7 to 12 pounds. This breed is a healthy family companion but it is important to ask the breeder if there are any possible diseases in its line.
American Shorthair is easy to maintain as they require general grooming sessions such as dental hygiene, nail cutting, bath, and vaccinations. Some American shorthair cats love to sit in your lap while others don’t like that. You can easily keep them busy with stuffed and puzzle toys.
Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex black cats are known for their exotic looks because of their curly coats, bat-like large ears, and attractive noses. They have usually a slim build if not bred with other cat breeds. This intelligent breed would play with you and keep you entertained.
The size of a Cornish Rex varies from 6 to 10 pounds. This breed loves your attention and would be involved in different activities with you such as performing tricks. The Cornish Rex cat loves to play and sit on your lap.
Although Cornish Rex is easy to groom and maintain, they are prone to the following diseases:
- Congenital hypotrichosis is a serious condition in which the cat goes through baldness.
- Umbilical Hernia, as the name suggests, the disease occurs in the abdominal lining near the umbilicus.
- A heart disease called Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is also common in the Maine Coon breed.
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a rare breed and its appearance is similar to the Sphynx cat except it has a wavy coat. This black cat breed has wrinkled skin and large ears, which make them unique and attractive. The weight of this breed can vary between 5 and 10 pounds.
The Devon Rex is a friendly cat and becomes attached to you and your family members. This breed is not as active as Cornish Rex but still loves to play with you and learn tricks. While generally healthy, the health condition of black cat breeds like the Devon Rex can vary depending on whether it’s a pedigreed cat or a mixed breed.
Here are health conditions that have been seen in Devon Rex:
- Congenital hypotrichosis – where the cat goes through hair baldness.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy – is a form of heart disease that is hereditary.
- Malassezia dermatitis – is an ear infection that causes redness and itchiness.
- Hip dysplasia – the dislocation of the ball and socket in the hip joint that limits movement.
- Urticaria Pigmentosa – crusty sores start to appear on the body which causes itchiness and discomfort.
Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtail breed cats have various colors but we included this breed in the list as we love black Japanese Bobtail. The dominant gene of the bobbed tail is what makes this breed unique and distinctive.
The size of this black breed cat varies from 5 to 10 pounds. Moreover, you will be amazed by this cat’s talking habit as it will try to communicate with you in a chirpy and sweet “Meow” voice. Most cats from this breed love to play with water and find puddles very fascinating.
The Japanese Bobtail is generally healthy but the health depends on whether it’s a pedigreed or a mixed breed. When it comes to taking care of this breed, it is very easy to groom.
The good thing about this cat is that it has a water-resistant coat therefore, you can bathe your cat rarely, whenever you feel it’s necessary. Moreover, just like other breeds, it is important to take care of your cat’s dental hygiene and ear checkups regularly.
LaPerm
If you are interested in a black cat breed with a great sense of humor and a coat that feels airy because of the loose and bouncy curls, LaPerm is the one!
The LaPerm breed is small in size and weighs 5 to 8 pounds. When it comes to the personality of this breed, you will never be bored with a LaPerm at your house. This cat likes to play with you and follow you around. It also loves to sit on your lap or shoulder to give you company. This affectionate breed will cheer you up when you are down, making it a great choice among black cat breeds for a joyful and loving companion.
When it comes to their health, this breed is usually healthy. However, you need to brush the coat at least thrice a week or more if the coat is longer. With such loving personalities, the LaPerm breed makes the best family cat!
Maine Coon
A Maine Coon breed comes in different colors and patterns but a black exotic Maine Coon cat deserves to be on this list. This breed is known for its big and muscular body structure. A Maine Coon can weigh between 9 and 18 pounds.
This family cat loves his humans and demands their attention. This cat is very friendly and loves to follow you around the house. If you already have a dog at home, a Maine Coon will easily get along with him.
When it comes to a Maine Coon’s health, the following diseases may appear due to this breed’s genetics:
- Hip dysplasia, which is a misaligned hip joint causing limited movement.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is heart disease, is commonly found in other cat breeds as well.
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Spinal Muscular atrophy is a genetic disorder that may affect the muscles of the limbs.
Manx
The Manx breed has either a small stubby tail or is completely tailless, which is a result of genetic mutation. Manx is an adorable little breed with round faces and fluffy bodies. This breed can weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. Although they seem small and light, when lifted, they are quite heavy.
Manx is a friendly cat breed and loves to meet and play with new people. With great hunting skills and alert nature, this black cat breed protects you in a way similar to a watchdog. As this breed is intelligent, you can easily teach a Manx some tricks including fetch. This cat loves to be around people so if you are ready to give attention, you can choose a Manx.
When it comes to general health, this breed, whether pedigreed or mixed-breed is prone to the following diseases:
- Arthritis – As the Manx cats are born with partial or no tail, the partial tail can lead to arthritis of the tailbone.
- Manx Syndrome – This syndrome includes various birth defects caused by a genetic mutation. The Manx might go through conditions such as digestion issues, urinary tract defects, or spine issues. Therefore, it is important to keep in touch with an experienced veterinarian in case your cat faces any of these diseases.
Norwegian Forest Cat
If you are looking for a black cat breed that demands less attention, then the Norwegian Forest Cat would make up a great pet! Norwegian Forest cats are usually big and can weigh between 13 and 22 pounds. This breed is very gentle and friendly and won’t demand constant attention just like other cat breeds.
When it comes to its health, Norwegian Forest is generally a very healthy cat but is prone to the following conditions:
- Glycogen Storage Disease: this heritable condition rarely occurs and affects glucose immunity. Kittens with this disease may die within a few hours of birth. Sometimes, the signs start to appear until 5 months and can still lead to death.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: it’s a form of heart disease that is common in many cat breeds.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease: Just like Maine Coon, am also prone to this kidney disease.
- Retinal Dysplasia: this is an eye defect that leads to spots appearing on the retina. However, the cat’s vision is not compromised.
It is important to regularly brush this cat breed or at least thrice a week. Moreover, it is best to have a daily dental hygiene routine but if you are not able to do it, brush your cat’s teeth at least once a week. Just like other cat breeds, you must also clean this cat’s eyes and remove any discharge.
Oriental
This black breed is known for its prominent nose. It is a very friendly and active cat and loves to play with children and even cat-friendly dogs. If you have a dog at home, you won’t be worried as the oriental will get along with him.
The oriental breed is usually muscular with a long nose and slim legs. This breed has a short or medium silky coat which is quite easy to maintain. You won’t be worried about shedding. The size of an Oriental breed can vary from 5 to 10 pounds.
Persian
Who doesn’t love a Persian cat? Persian breed is like fluff balls and very popular even as a black cat breed. This oldest cat breed originated in Persia and immediately caught the attention of many cat fanciers. Then, through further breeding over decades, we now see an adorable round-faced breed with a snub nose and chubby cheeks, making it one of the most beloved choices among black cat breeds.
The size of an average Persian cat can vary between 7 and 12 pounds. This cat might not be active and jumpy like other breeds but you’ll love his company. You can play with them for a little time and they are good to go! A noisy and loud environment is not ideal for Persians as they are a kind of sedate breed.
A Persian cat’s potential health problems are as follows:
- Breathing Issues – most Persians are prone to breathing problems because of constricted nostrils.
- They are also prone to excessive tearing
- Some eye conditions such as cherry eye and entropion are also common among Persians.
- A skin condition called Seborrhea Oleosa is when red spots start to appear on the skin which causes itchiness and hair loss.
- Polycystic kidney disease.
Although Persians are the most beautiful and popular breed, they require a lot of care and grooming. Make sure to keep their litter box clean otherwise, this breed will just stop using its litter tub. As this cat has a tearing problem, it is important to wipe his eyes regularly. Moreover, they require a regular dental hygiene routine as well otherwise, they may face the periodontal disease.
Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin is another black cat breed that is adorable with a calm nature. The black Ragamuffin has a thick and soft coat, which is easy to maintain. The Ragamuffin black cat breed has a very friendly nature and loves to follow you around and cuddle with you.
An adult Ragamuffin cat can weigh from 10 to 20 pounds and are generally healthy. But you need to make sure to ask the breeder about any potential health problems in the breed line. This breed is easy to maintain and its fur is tangle-resistant so you can easily brush the coat. Just like other breeds, make sure to take care of your Ragamuffin cat’s dental hygiene.
Scottish Fold
As the name suggests, the Scottish Fold breed originates from Scotland. This black cat breed is known for its folded ears and owl-like face. If you are looking for a cat to give you company all the time, the Scottish Fold breed is the one you are looking for!
A Scottish Fold cat is usually medium-sized and weighs between 8 and 13 pounds. This breed has a cute chirpy voice in which they try to communicate with their humans. This smart breed loves to play with puzzles and teaser toys.
Make sure to check in with the breeder about the potential health problems while bringing this cute Scottish Fold bud at home.
This breed is prone to:
- Degenerative Joint Disease in which the cat’s mobility is compromised. It is important to consult the veterinarian.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease that is common in many cat breeds.
If your Scottish fold cat has a longhaired coat, you need to make sure to brush him a couple of times a week. If he has a short shoat, then you may just brush twice to remove any dead hair. Also, make sure to take care of his dental hygiene to avoid any infections and diseases. Overall, Scottish Fold is easy to maintain and makes up one of the best family cats.
Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex gets his good looks from his ancestors that are British shorthair and Persian. Selkirk Rex breed is comparatively more active than the British Shorthair and Persian ancestors but still counts as a relaxed cat. He loves to play with family members and other pets at home. If you have a Selkirk Rex at home, you will love playing flashlight beams or fishing pole games with him.
An average Selkirk Rex weighs from 10 to 15 pounds. This breed is generally healthy but you need to check with the breeder about any health problems in the line. When it comes to grooming this breed, it is important to brush the coat a few times a week as it is dense.
This cat does not need regular baths but if you feel like it’s time to get him clean, you can just use a good moisturizing shampoo and let the adorable curly coat dry.
Siberian
Another beautiful and one of the most popular black cat breeds called Siberian has made it to our top list. This breed is known for its triple-layered coat and bushy tail. This fluffy cat is very friendly and known for its appealing looks. Siberian is easy to maintain and does not need extra attention like many other breeds.
Siberian cats are usually healthy but they may be the potential for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a heart condition. It is important to check in with the breeder. This breed needs to be groomed and brushed a couple of times a week, otherwise, you will end up having hair on your sofa and other furniture. Moreover, you are taking care of the dental hygiene of your cat to avoid periodontal disease.
Another thing to take into consideration is that if you are planning to get a Siberian, make sure you keep them inside of your house. Siberians are not much of outdoor cats and there is also a risk of someone stealing your cat as they are one of the most beautiful black cat breeds.
Sphynx
Sphynx is an excellent example of a genetic mutation that brought up this exotic hairless cat breed in the mid-1970s. Sphynx is a home-friendly hairless cat that is very loving and affectionate. It’s a medium-sized cat that can weigh between 6 and 12 pounds.
Obviously, who doesn’t prefer a fluffy cat? But they require much attention and grooming when maintaining their coat, as they can shed a lot. Unlike those furry cats, Sphynx does not require such time-consuming duties.
This breed is so fond of meeting people and playing with them that it is also known to be a therapy cat. You will love the company of a Sphynx as it is a highly social cat that will provide you the attention and make you feel important.
This breed does not suffer from a lot of health problems, unlike some other cat breeds. But you can check with the breeder to see if there have been any diseases in the line.
Turkish Angora
A Turkish Angora is a very active and intelligent cat. No place is too high for him as he loves to explore high places. With his clever little games, he loves to get your attention. Turkish Angora is a friendly breed but he loves his people more.
A Turkish Angora breed has an average weight of 5 to 9 pounds. Overall, this breed is healthy but health problems i.e. hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and ataxia are known to be seen in this breed.
Ataxia, which is a neuromuscular condition causing weakness and clumsiness and making it hard for the cat to walk on her feet. Ataxia generally appears at two to four weeks of age. It is important to ask the breeder if the disorder exists in the line.
When it comes to grooming your Turkish Angora cat, it is important to regularly brush her fur to avoid any tangles or shedding. Also, make sure to follow a daily dental hygiene routine to prevent periodontal disease.
Turkish Angora is a great family cat and loves to play with children and other pets. It is important to supervise until the cat settles down in the environment.
FAQs
What are three facts about the black cat?
Black cats have many facts in people about them. A very common are:
- They mostly have golden eyes.
- In many countries, they are considered good luck.
- Black Cats are primarily black in gender.
What’s so special about black cats?
In people’s minds, black cats have a lot of myths. A few counties imagine them as a sign of good luck, while some countries say that a black cat coming ahead indicates terrible luck.
How long does a black cat live?
Depending on the living conditions, a black cat breed can easily survive for at least 15 years.
Are black cats very loving?
Yes, black cat breeds are mostly very loving. They like to play with their owners, cuddle, and even talk on the phone if the owner is away.
Are black cats stubborn?
Usually, black cat breeds are very loving, caring, and joyful. Also, they are good at hunting and can become stubborn if they are still looking for food or a response from their owners.
How rare are entirely black cats?
Black cat breeds are not rare, and their origin town was in America in 1950. According to surveys, 22 species of cats have a solid black coat.
What breed are most black cats?
According to studies, 22 species of cats can produce an intense black hue. If we talk about the most common black cat is a Persian cat that is loving and also becomes a good companion in free time.
What cat is the vampire cat breed?
Kodkod black is usually considered a vampire cat. It has a small head, and it is solid. It is famous for being active and can jump trees and roofs quickly. It is commonly available in Argentine and Chile.
What breed of cat is only female?
Calico Cat is the name of a cat breed. It is noted that this breed mainly produces females, and the ratio of male cats in this breed is minimal.
How smart is the black cat?
Black cats are brilliant and active all the time. They keep their eyes on things around them. Being quick, they are challenging to catch.
How many types of black cats are there?
Studies and surveys show 23 types of black cats have solid black colours. Their size and fur length can differ, and all black cat breeds are solid black. The cutest black cat breed among all of these is the Bombay cat.
Final Verdict
Like other shades among the cats, black cat breeds have diverse personalities. If you are looking for a cat pet, you should consider getting a black cat breed. He will love you, play with you, and keep you and your family entertained.
