All You Need To Know
Owning a Small Cat breed in Malaysia
When it comes to choosing a pet to make our furbaby, a few factors such as looks, personality and cuddleablilty influences our decisions. Small cat breeds are perfect cuddle buddies, fit into cozy spaces, and are easy to manage. Plus, their playful personalities and compact size make them utterly irresistible!
Living with a small cat breed
Here’s a rough idea on why a small cat may or may not be perfect for your lifestyle:
Overall, living with a small cat breed means having a compact, playful companion who’s easy to care for and always up for some fun!
Ready for commitment?
7 common small house cats in Malaysia and Singapore
1. The Singapura cat
The Singapura cat is a tiny but mighty cat — just like its country of origin, Singapore. Recognised as one of the most miniature domestic cat breeds, it’s a feline that’s energetic and athletic despite its tiny yet muscular physique. It could also be the cat for you if you’re looking for a breed that maintains it’s kitten-like look as they usually stop growing at around two years of age.
The Singapura characteristics
Personality | Energetic, intelligent, social |
Weight | Up to 3.6 kgs |
Length | Up to 60cm |
Coat length | Short |
Read all about the Singapura’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
2. Munchkin
Meet the Munchkin cat, the irresistibly cute “kitten-sized” feline with short legs and a big personality! These tiny dynamos are playful, curious, and love to be the center of attention. Named after the little people in *The Wizard of Oz*, Munchkins bring endless joy with their spirited antics. Living with a Munchkin means constant entertainment—they’re always on the move, exploring every nook and cranny, and cuddling up for cozy moments.
Munchkin characteristics
Personality | Friendly, sociable, playful, and energetic |
Weight | Up to 4kg |
Length | Up to 60cm |
Coat length | Short hair, medium hair, and long hair |
Read all about the Munchkin characteristics, temperament, care and diet here.
3. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is a cat breed with HUGE ears. Perhaps it’s for them to hear better, but their egg-shaped head, slender athletic body and soft velvety coat gives them their distinctive appearance. Endearingly also known as the Greyhound of the cat world, the Cornish Rex’s wavy marceled coat isn’t hypo-allergenic but they seem less likely to trigger allergies than other cats.
Acrobatic, clownish, intelligent and energetic are the 4 words commonly used to describe a Cornish Rex cat. They maintain their kitten-like personalities throughout their adult life and thrive on attention.
Cornish Rex characteristics
Personality | Enthusiastic, social, acrobatic, clownish, energetic |
Weight | Up to 4.5kg |
Length | Up to 70 cm |
Coat length | Short hair, curly hair |
Read all about the Cornish Rex’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
4. Siamese cats
The Siamese cat is a sleek, svelte feline with striking blue eyes and a voice that’s impossible to ignore! Known for their outgoing, talkative nature and affectionate cuddles, Siamese cats are truly social butterflies. Named after Siam (now Thailand), they’re famed for their elegant, pointed coat and vibrant personality.
Living with a Siamese means endless entertainment and loving companionship—they’ll chat with you, play with you, and snuggle up for cozy, purring moments!
Siamese cat characteristics
Personality | Sociable, friendly, vocal |
Weight | Up to 6.4kg |
Length | Up to 61 cm |
Coat length | Short hair |
Read all about the Siamese cat’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
5. Scottish Fold cats
Scottish Fold cats are one of the more popular cat breeds one can find in Malaysia. Iconically known for their folded ears, rounded face and squishy paws, this adorable cat holds some secrets within their fold that every potential owner should know about before introducing these cats into their lives.
Scottish Folds are affectionate, friendly, and calm cats. They’re sociable, curious, and intelligent, making them great companions. Their easygoing nature fits well in various living environments, allowing them to get along with kids and other pets.
Scottish Fold cat characteristics
Personality | Affectionate, easy going, friendly and lazy |
Weight | Up to 6.0kg |
Length | Up to 70cm |
Coat length | Either short or long |
Read all about the Scottish Fold cat’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
6. American Curl
The American Curl is a cat that’s “earmarked” by their distinctive backward-curled ears and playful, affectionate nature. It’s one of the rarer cat breeds in Malaysia as it is one of the newer cat breeds in existence.
As sociable, friendly, adaptable and very much people-oriented cats, they love being a part of the household’s activities and may even comment on them with adorable little chirps. As happy, playful and curious cats, they’re the “personality hire” and would never fail to amaze or entertain their humans with their kitten-like behaviours that maintain well into adulthood
American Curl characteristics
Personality | Affectionate, friendly, and playful |
Weight | Up to 4kg |
Length | Up to 70 cm |
Coat length | Short and long fur variation |
Read all about the American Curl cat’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
7. Japanese Bobtail cats
The Japanese Bobtail cat, known for its unique short, pom-pom-like tail, is gaining popularity in Malaysia for its playful nature and distinctive appearance. Admired for their intelligence and adaptability, they are beloved companions in Malaysian homes and cat shows for their charming personality and striking looks.
Perhaps not the most common breed you’d chance upon in Malaysia or Singapore but their adaptable, playful, energetic, and affectionate nature make perfect house cats. They are intelligent, curious, and enjoy interacting with their human companions. They are also known for their vocalisations , often communicating with a wide range of sounds.
Japanese Bobtail cat characteristics
Personality | Playful, energetic, affectionate, and vocal |
Weight | Up to 4.5 kgs |
Length | Up to 70 cm |
Coat length | Short or long |
Read all about the Japanese Bobtail cat’s characteristics, temperament, care and diet:
Living with smaller cat breeds in Malaysia is a perfect match for our cozy homes. Their petite size fits comfortably into smaller spaces, while their lively personalities bring vibrant energy and joy to any household. These charming companions will fill your home with playful antics and affectionate moments, making every day brighter and more delightful. With a smaller cat by your side, you’ll enjoy a harmonious blend of comfort and cheer.
| Pros of Small cat breeds | Cons of Small cat breeds |
|---|---|
Space efficient and less furniture damage | Fragility and less noticeable presence |
Lower feeding and grooming costs | Potential for overweight |
Active and great as lap cats | Energy levels |
FAQs
How much do these smaller cat breeds cost in Malaysia?
Here’s a rough estimate of the costs for these cat breeds in Malaysia:
Singapura: RM 2,000 – RM 4,000
Munchkin: RM 3,000 – RM 6,000
Cornish Rex: RM 4,000 – RM 8,000
Siamese: RM 1,500 – RM 3,500
Scottish Fold: RM 4,000 – RM 10,000
American Curl: RM 4,000 – RM 8,000
Japanese Bobtail: RM 2,500 – RM 5,000
These prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the cat’s lineage, breeder reputation, and any additional costs for initial care and vaccinations. It’s always a good idea to check with local breeders or cat organisations for the most current pricing and availability.
Are larger cat breeds good with kids?
Yes, smaller cat breeds are often great with kids—playful, affectionate, and adaptable, making them wonderful family companions.
What makes larger cat breeds special or unique?
In Malaysia and Singapore, Smaller cat breeds are special for their compact size, playful nature, easy care, and their ability to fit into cosy spaces.
Are smaller cat breeds high maintenance?
Smaller cat breeds generally aren’t high maintenance compared to larger breeds. However, their care needs can vary based on specific breed characteristics, such as grooming requirements or health considerations. Most small breeds are manageable with regular care and attention.
