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Persian

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Quiet, ornamental and famously placid, the Persian needs daily grooming without exception. The flat face brings breathing, eye and dental problems.

Key facts

Lifespan

12–17 years

Weight

3–6 kg

Grooming

High

Shedding

High

First-time owners

Experience helps

About the Persian

Persians are gentle, low-energy cats that suit calm indoor homes. The long, dense coat mats within days if not brushed, and neglected coats often end in a full clip under sedation. Modern 'peke-faced' Persians are brachycephalic, with tear overflow, breathing difficulty and dental crowding; more moderate 'doll-faced' lines are considerably healthier.

PlacidQuietAffectionateLow-energy

Living with a Persian

Indoor cats; daily grooming is non-negotiable.

  • Good with children
  • Good with other pets
  • Suitable for first-time owners

Health

Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.

  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
  • Brachycephalic airway problems and tear duct overflow
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Dental crowding; coat matting

Ask the breeder for

  • DNA test for PKD in both parents
  • DNA test for PRA-pd; cardiac scanning

Buying a Persian

Prefer a moderate 'doll-faced' Persian with visible nostrils and a defined muzzle over an extremely flat face — the difference in quality of life is substantial.

Read the full safe-buying guide

Persians for sale

No Persian adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.

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Persian FAQs

How long do Persians live?

A Persian typically lives 12–17 years.

Are Persians good for first-time owners?

Persians are better suited to owners with previous experience, because of their training, exercise or handling needs.

What health tests should a Persian breeder have done?

DNA test for PKD in both parents. DNA test for PRA-pd; cardiac scanning.

Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.