All You Need To Know

Owning a Persian cat in Malaysia

Persian cats are a fluffy, regal beauty with a luxurious coat, charming flat face, and captivating eyes! Their calm demeanour and affectionate nature make them perfect lap companions. Cat lovers adore their sweet, gentle personalities and the elegant way they reign over their home with a purr of royalty.

At Petchef, we believe that it is the parents’ responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the Persian cat may be the cat for you.

Breed overview

Personality

Sweet, gentle, and affectionate

Weight

4.5-9.1kgs (10-20 pounds)

Size

Medium to large

Coat length

Longhaired

Coat color

Blue, black, white, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, silver, golden

Coat patterns

Solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, bicolor

Eye color

Copper, blue, green, blue-green, hazel and odd-eyed

Lifespan

15-20 years

Hypoallergenic

No

Origin

Iran (formerly known as Persia)

Personality & Characteristics

Persian cats are known for their calm, gentle nature and affectionate demeanour. They’re sociable, loving lap cats who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. With their luxurious, long fur and flat faces, they exude an air of regal elegance. Persians are playful yet serene, making them ideal for a cosy home.

Affection level

High

Friendliness

Medium

Kid-Friendly

Medium

Pet-Friendly

Medium

Exercise needs

Low

Playfullness

Medium

Energy level

Low

Trainability

Medium

Intelligence

Medium

Tendency to Vocalize

Medium

History & Origin

Persian cats have a storied history dating back to ancient Persia (modern-day Iran). They were first introduced to Europe in the 1600s, where their luxurious coats and striking appearance quickly captured the fascination of cat enthusiasts. Originating from the Persian region, these cats were prized for their beauty and serene temperament. Over the centuries, selective breeding refined their distinctive flat face, long fur, and gentle nature. Their regal presence and enduring elegance have made them one of the most beloved and recognizable cat breeds worldwide.

Grooming & Care

Due to their long fur, Persian cats are considered high-maintenance. Here are some grooming and care tips to keep them clean and happy:

  • Brushing:

    Their long, luxurious coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Regularly using a steel comb, slicker brush or pin brush will help maintain their coat’s health and prevent mats and tangles.

  • Bathing:

    Bathing every 4-6 weeks helps keep their coat clean and healthy. Persians also need their faces cleaned daily as their large round eyes are prone to tearing.

  • Nail Trimming

    Every 2-4 weeks helps prevent overgrowth and potential injury from sharp claws. Scratching posts also help them sharpen their claws in between trims.

  • Ear Cleaning:

    Check their ears weekly for dirt or wax buildup. Clean with a damp cloth or a vet-recommended ear cleaner, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.

  • Dental Care:

    Use a cat-specific toothbrush (or finger) and toothpaste to brush every 2-3 weeks, ideally everyday.

Common Health Issues

Due to their iconic flattened face looks, Persian cats are prone to breed-specific health issues such as:

  • Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS):

    Their flat face can lead to breathing difficulties and airway obstruction.

  • Eye Problems:

    Persians often suffer from chronic eye conditions, such as tear staining, conjunctivitis, and corneal ulcers.

  • Haircoat disorder:

    Their long fur can be prone to matting, which may cause skin infections or irritations if not properly groomed.

  • Dental Issues:

    Their dental health can be compromised due to their flat facial structure, leading to dental problems and gum disease.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help mitigate these health risks and ensure a Persian’s overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

Persians require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:

  • High-Quality Protein:

    Being obligate carnivores (meaning their diet primarily consists of meat), Persian cats need a diet rich in high-quality animal protein.

  • Balanced Nutrition:

    Ensure the cat food provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Portion Control:

    Persian cats are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust based on your cat's activity level and weight.

  • Fresh Water:

    Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Consider using a cat water fountain to encourage hydration.

Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.

Lifestyle and Living

Persians should be kept indoors due to their long, luxurious fur, which can easily get tangled or dirty outdoors. Additionally, their flat faces make them more susceptible to heat and respiratory issues, making an indoor environment safer and more comfortable for them. A catio (or a window bird feeder) would be a safe option that also lets them “experience” the outdoors from the safety of being indoors.

  • Indoor vs. Outdoor:

    Cats are generally inquisitive and curious beings. It’s great to allow them to explore the outdoors under close supervision like being on a leash or tagged/microchipped if allowed to free roam. Otherwise, a catio (or a window bird feeder) would be a safe option that also lets them “experience” the outdoors from the safety of being indoors.

  • Enrichment:

    Cats (or all living beings rather) thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Provide toys, puzzle feeders, scratching posts, and cat trees to keep them entertained. Interactive playtime with their owners is especially important, as they enjoy bonding through play.

  • Social Interaction:

    Persians thrive on human interaction and enjoy being petted and cuddled. They are lap cats that appreciate being close to their owners. They generally get along well with other pets and children but may prefer a calm, quiet environment. Gradual introductions to new companions are advised.

  • Exercise:

    Persians have low exercise needs and are not as active as some other breeds. They enjoy short play sessions but are more likely to prefer lounging around. Engage them in gentle play to keep them mentally stimulated, but avoid overly strenuous activities due to their low energy levels.

Adopt or Buy Persian Cats

In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Persian:

  1. Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Persians might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
  2. Breeders: Look for reputable Persian breeders in Malaysia like and ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
  3. Online Platforms: Websites and online forums (like Mudah.my) dedicated to pets often have listings for Persian kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
  4. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Persians available for adoption or sale.

Use Diligence

When adopting or purchasing a Persian, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.

Conclusion

Owning a Persian cat is a rewarding experience that comes with specific responsibilities. Their luxurious coat and affectionate nature make them cherished companions, but their unique health and lifestyle needs must be carefully managed. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and maintain their elegant appearance, while routine vet check-ups are crucial to address potential health issues such as brachycephalic airway problems and kidney disease. Persians thrive in a loving indoor environment where they can enjoy interactive play and gentle social interaction. By providing attentive care and a cosy home, you can ensure a happy, healthy life for your Persian cat.

Pros of Persian Cats Cons of Persian Cats
Affectionate and perfect lap cats
High grooming needs
Low tendency for vocalisation and aggression
Breed specific health issues
Elegant appearance
Prone to tear staining

FAQs

Most common questions about Persian Cats asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.

Depending on factors such as the age, breeder, lineage, and overall quality of the cat​, Persian kittens go for RM2,500 to RM6,000 while adult Persian cats go for RM1,500 to RM4,000.

Persian cats are generally good with kids if handled gently. Their calm nature suits children, but they prefer quieter environments.

Persian cats are special for their luxurious coats, regal appearance, and affectionate, gentle nature, making them elegant, loving companions.

Yes, Persians are high maintenance due to their long fur, requiring daily grooming, and they are prone to specific health issues.

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