Cat Breeds Not for First-Time Owners

Cat ownership is no easy feat. These charming pets are affectionate yet independent, curious yet reserved, intelligent yet sometimes goofy. They can be difficult to manage, however, with occasional behavioral problems, picky eaters, and sometimes unpredictable reactions.

Some cat breeds require more than others, so if you are a first-time cat owner, it is best to avoid the breeds listed here.

Cat Breeds Not for First-Time Owners

• Bombay
• Persian Cat
• Savannah
• American Wirehair
• Singapore

Bombay

The Bombay resembles a small black panther, with its sleek black fur, striking copper eyes, and unique, graceful gait. Even its paw pads and whiskers are black, adding to its panther-like appearance.

This breed is playful and energetic; although they are not naturally aggressive, they do enjoy rough play, which means you could end up with a scratch or bite. They can also react strongly to loud noises or sudden surprises, so they are not ideal for families with small children.

Persian Cat

Persians are easily recognized by their flat faces, large eyes, and luxurious coats. They have stocky bodies, typically standing 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing 6 to 13 pounds. They are better suited to homes with older children, rather than toddlers or babies.

They can get along well with other cats and gentle dogs that don’t chase or play too roughly, but introductions to new pets should be done gradually and carefully. Persians are known for their loving and loyal nature, making them excellent emotional support animals. There’s nothing more soothing than having one of these cats curl up on your lap and purr.

So why are they on the list of cat breeds not for first-time owners? The answer is allergies. If you have even a mild cat allergy, a Persian will quickly pick up on it, as they have higher levels of the proteins in their fur that cause allergic reactions. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dealing with red eyes and a runny nose when you own one.

Savannah

Savannah cats are a hybrid of domestic cats and wild African Serval cats, with distinctive coats that give them an exotic appearance. While they may resemble their wild ancestors in some ways, Savannah cats are sweet-natured and family-friendly when well socialized.

Before you fall in love with this energetic breed, however, you should know that Savannah cats do not enjoy being held, and they will make it clear when they are unhappy about it. Independent and aloof, they are best suited to owners who understand the importance of giving their cats space. If you are new to cats, you may struggle with waiting for a Savannah to get used to you, and you may need a lot of band-aids!

American Wirehair

The American Wirehair is a medium to large sized cat with a round body and large, expressive eyes that are round and slightly slanted at the outer corners. They come in a variety of colors.

American Wirehairs may look cute and adorable, but this charm comes with a caveat. They have an independent nature and may not enjoy being picked up or cuddled. They will let you know if you hold them for too long, often without warning. They can also be sensitive to strangers, so you may need to keep them in a separate room when you have guests over.

Singapore

The Singapura is a small cat with large eyes and ears. Males typically weigh around 3 to 4 kg, while females are even lighter, at just 2.5 kg.

The Singapura is an active, affectionate cat that loves company and attention. Not fond of being left alone on the floor, this outgoing breed enjoys being around people and often seeks attention—making them a popular choice for circus acts. With their unique, almost alien-like appearance, the Singapura makes an appealing pet. However, they are known for their strong will and timid nature, so taking them by surprise can cause them to quickly bar their fangs in response.