National Cat Lovers Month: Birmingham’s favourite breeds revealed

Birmingham is in love with two cat breeds as they are the most popular ones in the city. What best time to appreciate the felines in your life than the National Cat Lovers Month, which is celebrated every year in December.

The UK has much love for cats as a quarter of households own a cat here. While the The International Cat Association recognises 71 breeds of cats in total, there are two that are Birmingham’s favourites.

Feline experts, Catit have researched which cat breeds are the most popular in the UK by city and country to find the nation’s favourite.

They found that Birmingham loves Ragdoll and Maine Coon cats.

Top three cat breeds in the UK

The Ragdoll breed is the most popular breed across the whole of the UK. They are a favourite in 60 cities.

Ragdolls are known for their soft, fluffy coats and bright blue eyes. They are also gentle, quiet, and often playful. Their mild manners make them perfect family cats and apartment cats, which is possibly why Ragdolls are the most searched-for breed in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Coming in second was the Maine Coon, the largest domesticated cat breed. While they are massive in size they are also gentle giants. They are favoured because of their affectionate and playful nature. This breed was one of the top three most searched-for breeds in 49 cities.

In the third position is the Bengal, who look like small leopards. They’re very lively and curious but can be incredibly affectionate too, which makes them good family cats. One particular thing to note about this breed is their unusual love for the water, and they’ll often enjoy playing in water fountains, under taps, and may even join you in the bath.

Ragdolls and Maine Coons are favoured across the UK, coming in first and second respectively in all four countries. Bengals were also in the top three in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Bengals and British Shorthairs came in at a joint third in Wales, while England showed a joint preference for both the British Shorthair and talkative Siamese cats.

British Shorthairs are one of the first cat breeds ever recorded in Britain, having been brought over by Roman soldiers during the Roman invasion. With its rounded features and soft plush coat, both England and Wales are in love with this endearing breed.

What experts say

Paul Trott from Catit said: “Ragdoll cats are beautiful, calm, and affectionate, so we’re certainly not shocked to see that it’s the nation’s favourite breed. It’s also not too surprising to see the Maine Coon and Bengal cat up there as well. These are both breeds that are famous for their unusual features, whether that’s their size or their markings.

“That being said, it’s important not to choose a breed simply because it’s popular or looks pretty. Each breed has its own distinctive features and personality. Some are very energetic and playful, while others are calm and independent. So, we’d always advise doing your research before welcoming a new friend into the family.

“Different breeds require more time and care than others too, so budgeting for toys, food, and grooming should be a consideration. For example, large energetic breeds like the Maine Coon will need more attention and larger food portions, which can make their care more expensive than smaller, calmer breeds like the Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, or Siamese cat.”