The Siberian and the Maine Coon rank highly among the most beautiful medium hair cat breeds. Their luxurious coats and striking features captivate cat enthusiasts worldwide.
Choosing the perfect medium hair cat breed can be a delightful challenge, as each offers a unique blend of elegance, personality, and fluffiness. Cat lovers often seek medium-haired felines for their balance between the silky, short-haired varieties and the regal, long-haired breeds.
Main Characteristics
Exploring the main characteristics of medium hair cat breeds reveals a world of lavish coats and stunning colors. These furry friends boast features that charm cat lovers universally.
Fur Length And Texture
Medium hair cats showcase fur that’s nothing short of luxurious. It’s longer than a shorthair’s coat but doesn’t demand the maintenance a longhaired cat requires. This optimal length offers a puffy appearance with a soft, plush texture that begs for petting.
Color Variations
The coat colors of medium hair cats are as diverse as they are stunning. They can wear a single solid tone or sport patterns like stripes, spots, or even swirls. Classic hues range from coal black, pure white to shades of grey, cream, and amber. Many also feature striking multicolor blends that elevate their aesthetic allure.
Let’s dive deeper into what sets these medium hair cats apart:
- Soft, Silky Coats: These cats often have coats that feel like silk under your fingers.
- Seasonal Shedding: They may shed more in spring and fall, making grooming a seasonal task.
- Distinct Markings: Whether with bold stripes or subtle shades, their markings are eye-catching.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon stands out in the feline world with its majestic appearance and playful personality. Known as gentle giants, they capture hearts with their friendly demeanor.
Overview
Maine Coons claim the title of one of the largest domesticated cat breeds.
- Unique Features: Their large, tufted ears and bushy tails make them easily recognizable.
- Size: A full-grown Maine Coon can weigh up to 18 pounds.
- Coat Length: Their medium hair is dense and water-resistant , 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters)
Their sociable nature makes them perfect pets for families and singles alike. Their origin ties back to the Northeastern United States, with a reputation as skilled mousers.
Turkish Van
The Turkish Van stands out in the feline world with its striking beauty. Originating from the Lake Van region in Turkey, this breed boasts a distinctive pattern and a love for water. Their affectionate nature makes them a fantastic companion for those who appreciate a cat with character.
Overview
- Water-resistant, fluffy coat 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters)
- Distinctive color pattern with a white body and colored markings
- Fondness for swimming and water play
The Turkish Van is a medium to large-sized cat with a long, sturdy body. They usually weigh between 10 to 20 pounds, with males typically being larger than females.
Siberian
The Siberian cat, a natural breed from Russia, boasts a luxurious medium-long coat. This breed is renowned for its strength and agility. Siberians are a top pick for cat enthusiasts worldwide.
Unique Features
- Round, expressive eyes that captivate onlookers.
- Large, round paws with tufts of fur underneath.
- Presence of ear tufts that enhance their wild appearance.
Size
Siberian cats are medium to large in size. Males can weigh between 15 to 20 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. Their body is well-proportioned and sturdy.
Coat Length
A Siberian’s coat is one of its most magnificent features. The fur is medium-long and dense, 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 centimeters). It provides insulation from harsh weather. The coat comes in various colors and patterns, adding to their appeal.
Ragdoll
Classified as a medium hair breed, the Ragdoll stands out with its striking blue eyes and plush coat. These cats boast a gentle temperament that makes them perfect for family homes. Let’s dive into the details of the Ragdoll, one of the most enchanting cat breeds.
Unique Features
- Striking blue eyes that are deep and expressive.
- A friendly personality that loves attention.
- The ability to relax completely when held.
Size
The Ragdoll is one of the largest domesticated cats. Males can weigh between 12-20 lbs, while females are slightly smaller, usually weighing 10-15 lbs. Despite their size, they move with elegance and poise.
Coat Length
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coat Texture | Silky and soft |
| Coat Length | Medium, plush and semi-long. 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12.5 centimeters) |
| Grooming Needs | Requires regular brushing. |
British Shorthair
Meet the quintessential teddy bear of the feline world, the British Shorthair. This breed captures hearts with a plush coat and a sturdy build. It stands as a pinnacle of feline beauty among medium hair cats, charming cat enthusiasts everywhere.
Unique Features Of The British Shorthair
- Broad cheeks and a chubby smile
- Large, round, copper or gold eyes
- Solid and muscular body
Size Of The British Shorthair
These adorable felines come in a “just right” size. Adult British Shorthairs typically weigh between 7 to 17 pounds. They carry a sturdy and robust frame, perfectly housing their muscular physique. Their coat length typically ranges from 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters).
Norwegian Forest Cat
This exotic breed, known for its luxurious coat, is not only striking in appearance but also rich in history and personality. Let’s explore this captivating breed further and find out why it’s a treasured member of the medium hair cat family.
Unique Features Of The Norwegian Forest Cat
- Broad chest and sturdy legs for a powerful appearance
- Almond-shaped eyes sparkle with intelligence
- Triangular face framed by a ruff of fur for a mystical look
- Tufted ears atop their head like little tufts of frost
Size Of The Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a true gentle giant. Their size can be quite impressive, with males weighing 13 to 22 pounds and females a bit lighter at 9 to 18 pounds. Despite their size, they move with grace and agility, adding to their enchanting nature. Their coat length can vary, but it generally ranges from 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 centimeters).
Chartreux
The Chartreux commands attention with its muscular build and striking blue-grey coat. Legends suggest that it once lived with monks who treasured its serene nature. Today, this medium hair cat breed remains a symbol of elegance and tranquility.
Often described as “potato on toothpicks” due to its stout body and fine legs, the Chartreux is a breed that combines power with grace. Its unique features, including a robust size and dense coat length, make it an object of admiration.
Overview Of The Chartreux
| Unique Features | Size | Coat Length |
|---|---|---|
| Smiling expression, orange or copper eyes | Medium to large | Medium, dense. 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters) |
Chartreux cats are known for their silent nature, often chirping instead of meowing. Their intelligence and playful antics bring joy to any home. Yet, they can be quite independent, enjoying time alone as much as they do with their humans.
- Social and good with families
- Low maintenance grooming needs
- Adaptable to various living situations
Cornish Rex
In the realm of medium-haired felines, the Cornish Rex stands out with its singular beauty. This breed boasts a curly coat that feels as soft as velvet. Its elegant, slender body and large ears add to its distinct appearance. Cat lovers often prize the Cornish Rex for both its looks and playful, affectionate nature.
Overview Of The Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex, with its unique coat and striking physique, captivates many hearts. Its slim frame and arched back are immediately noticeable. Known for being active and social, these felines make excellent family pets. Curious and interactive, they revel in being the center of attention.
Unique Features Of The Cornish Rex
- Size: Typically, these cats are of a medium build with males weighing around 6-10 pounds while females are slightly smaller.
- Coat Length: This breed sports a short, wavy coat unique amidst cats, the product of a natural mutation. 1/4 to 1 inch (0.6 to 2.5 centimeters)
- Large ears poised atop a narrow, egg-shaped head.
- Big, expressive eyes that sparkle with curiosity.
Abyssinian
This breed is beloved for its striking appearance, playful spirit, and affectionate nature.
Overview
The Abyssinian stands out with its vibrant coat and watchful eyes. Originating from Ethiopia, this breed exudes elegance and grace.
Unique Features
- Agile and muscular build, perfect for climbing and exploring.
- Lively amber and green eyes that sparkle with curiosity.
- Its fur has a unique ticked pattern, reminiscent of wild cats.
Size
The Abyssinian is a medium-sized feline, well-proportioned and fit. Its weight naturally varies, typically between 6 to 10 pounds.
Coat Length
Its medium-length coat is dense and silky to the touch. This makes the Abyssinian both a joy to pet and a stunning beauty to behold. Their coat length typically ranges from around 1/4 to 3/4 inch (0.6 to 2 centimeters).
American Curl
Meet the distinctive and captivating American Curl, number ten on our list of beautiful medium hair cats. With ears that curl back in an elegant arc, this breed’s unique look has captured hearts and turned heads across the cat-loving world.
Unique Features
- Curl-back ears that give the breed its name.
- Expressive, large walnut-shaped eyes.
- Silky, medium-length coat that’s perfect for cuddling.
Size
The American Curl stands out with a well-balanced, medium-sized body. Males typically weigh between 7 to 10 pounds, while females are often smaller, making them an ideal size for most homes.
Coat Length
Their coat, which can be best described as plush and medium in length, requires minimal grooming. Their coat typically ranges from around 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters) in length.
American Shorthair
This breed, known for being adaptable and friendly, is a favorite among cat enthusiasts. Let’s delve into what makes the American Shorthair such a mesmerizing medium hair cat breed.
Overview Of The American Shorthair
The American Shorthair cat shines with its robust build and affable nature. This breed originated from cats brought to North America by early settlers The American Shorthair has a medium-sized, muscular frame and a coat that’s not quite short, but also not too long, striking a perfect balance in coat length.
| Size | Coat Length | Personality |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 15 pounds (3.6 to 6.8 kilograms) | 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters) | Friendly and adaptable |
Balinese
This breed is perfect for cat lovers who adore a fluffy companion with a playful yet dignified demeanor.
Overview
The Balinese cat is a natural showstopper, known for its striking features and regal posture. Despite their aristocratic appearance, they are affectionate and social creatures. This breed shares many traits with the Siamese, including their communicative nature and intelligence.
| Size | Coat Length | Personality |
|---|---|---|
| 6 to 11 pounds (2.7 to 5 kilograms) | 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 centimeters) | Friendly and adaptable |
Bengal
Bengals boast impressive patterns resembling a leopard’s coat. This breed stands out with striking spots and rosettes, drawing the gaze of feline enthusiasts worldwide. Bengals don’t just look like wild cats; they exhibit spunky and playful behavior, charming to any cat lover.
Overview
A Bengal cat emerges as a blend of domestic felines and the wild Asian leopard cat. Bred for their exotic looks yet domestic temperament, they carry sleek, athletic frames.
| Size | Coat Length | Personality |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 15 pounds (3.6 to 6.8 kilograms) | 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters) | Friendly and adaptable |
Birman
Graceful and mystical, the Birman cat captivates with deep blue eyes and a luscious medium-length coat. This breed is a jewel amongst felines, embodying beauty and elegance. Their calm demeanor and affectionate nature make them an ideal companion.
Overview
The Birman, also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” boasts a striking appearance and a gentle temperament. They flourish in loving environments and enjoy forming strong bonds with their human families. Birmans adapt well to indoor living, making them a perfect choice for various households.
Size
Birmans are medium-sized cats, typically weighing from 6 to 12 pounds. Their build is athletic yet robust, allowing for graceful movement and an impressive presence.
Coat Length
Their coat is one of their most distinguishing features. It is of medium length, silky to the touch, and requires minimal grooming. 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters).
Bombay
The Bombay cat radiates elegance through its sleek, panther-like appearance. This medium hair feline brings exotic charm to any home. With its affectionate nature, it often becomes a beloved part of the family.
Overview
The Bombay cat, with its striking black coat, resembles a miniature black panther. It boasts a muscular build and round, copper eyes. This breed is of medium size and has a medium length coat that is easy to care for.
Born entertainers, Bombays love to play. They also enjoy snuggling up with their human companions. Despite their luxurious look, they are friendly, making them great pets.
Size
- Weight: 8-15 pounds
- Height: 10-12 inches
Coat Length
- Texture: Satin-like
- Shine: Glowing
- 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters).
Burmese
Among the myriad feline breeds that grace the pet world, the Burmese cat emerges as a shining star. With its striking eyes and silky medium-length coat, the Burmese breed is nothing short of captivating.
Overview
The Burmese cat is a breed of many charms. Its size is perfect for those who adore neither too large nor too small cats. The Burmese boasts a short, but not too short, coat length.
Burmese cats carry a reputation for their friendly nature. Their social tendencies are coupled with a playful spirit, making them ideal companions. Their coats come in a variety of colors, including the classic sable, champagne, and platinum.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium, muscular build. 6 to 12 pounds (2.7 to 5.4 kilograms). |
| Coat Length | Short to medium, fine and glossy. 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters). |
| Colors | Sable, champagne, blue, platinum |
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex stands out in the feline world with its elfin features and wavy coat. This breed’s striking appearance and playful personality make it a favorite among cat enthusiasts.
Overview
Known for its large, bat-like ears and a short, curly coat, the Devon Rex possesses a unique charm. Originating from England, this cat breed boasts a slender body and an endearing, impish face. Medium in size and with a coat that varies from a woolly to a soft suede texture, Devon Rexes are easy to spot in a crowd of cats. Let’s explore more about their distinctive features.
Size
The Devon Rex is medium-sized, 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 4.5 kilograms). Its slender build and refined features complement its medium coat length. This size makes the Devon Rex ideal for those who prefer a cat that is not too large but still substantial enough for cuddles and play.
Coat Length
- Soft, wavy fur.
- Short to medium in length.
- Less shedding compared to other breeds.
- 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters).
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau stands out in the feline world with its striking spots and agile frame. A breed cherished for both beauty and personality, the Egyptian Mau captivates cat enthusiasts around the globe.
Overview
Originating from Egypt, as their name suggests, Maus are a testament to living history. They possess a natural spotted pattern, a trait not commonly found in other domesticated cat breeds.
Size
- Medium-sized breed
- Ideal weight ranges between 8-12 pounds
- Muscular build with a sleek silhouette
Coat Length
- Medium short coat, dense and silky to the touch
- Minimal shedding, easy to maintain
- Distinct spots appear on the coat, from small to large
- 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters).
Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair cat combines the best of two feline worlds. Imagine the Persian’s glamorous traits with easier grooming needs. This breed is famous for its teddy bear look, playful attitude, and easy-going temperament.
Overview Of Exotic Shorthair
Known for its distinctive face and dense coat, the Exotic Shorthair is much more than a pretty face. This breed boasts a loyal following thanks to its affectionate nature and companionable personality. Its plush, velvet-like coat invites you to pet it, while its calm demeanor makes it a perfect pet for various households.
Size And Coat Length
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 7 to 14 pounds (3.2 to 6.4 kilograms). |
| Coat Length | 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters). |
Havana Brown
The Havana Brown, a mesmerizing medium-haired feline, captures attention with its lush chocolate coat and enchanting green eyes. This breed stands out in the feline world, boasting an elegant look and a friendly demeanor.
Overview
With origins that trace back to the 1950s in England, the Havana Brown cat is a true gem among medium-haired breeds. Its sleek body and medium size make it a perfect companion for those who appreciate grace and agility in their pets.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 to 10 pounds (2.7 to 4.5 kilograms). |
| Coat Length | 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters). |
Japanese Bobtail
With its medium hair that is both silky and easy to groom, the Japanese Bobtail makes both a delightful companion and a stunning pet.
Overview
The Japanese Bobtail boasts a rich history, deep-rooted in Japanese culture and folklore. These cats carry a unique look with their short, bunny-like tails. Each cat’s tail is as unique as a fingerprint, making them a rare treasure in the cat world. They exhibit a balance of grace and strength that captures the heart of onlookers.
Size And Coat Length
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 to 10 pounds (2.7 to 4.5 kilograms). |
| Coat Length | 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters). |
Korat
The Korat, a medium-haired feline, boasts a shimmering blue-grey coat and captivating green eyes. These cats capture hearts with their beauty and affectionate personalities. Let’s discover the charm of this elegant breed.
Overview
Originating from Thailand, the Korat carries a legacy of good fortune. With its striking appearance and gentle manner, it stands out among medium-haired cats. This breed’s physique is athletic, with a heart-shaped face that’s truly distinctive.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 to 10 pounds (2.7 to 4.5 kilograms) |
| Coat Length | 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters) |
| Personality | Affectionate, intelligent |
| Color | Blue-grey |
| Eyes | Bright green |
Manx
The Manx cat stands out among medium-hair breeds. This tailless wonder boasts a rich history and unique features. With its round head and muscular body, the Manx is both adorable and robust. Explore the fascinating traits of the Manx cat below.
Overview
The Manx breed originates from the Isle of Man. It’s famous for its taillessness, which results from a genetic mutation. Known for a friendly disposition, this breed forms strong bonds with families.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 8 to 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kilograms) |
| Coat Length | 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters) |
Ocicat
The Ocicat stands out among medium hair cat breeds. Its wild appearance draws attention. This exotic breed displays leopard-like spots. These spots give it a majestic yet domestic charm.
Overview Of The Ocicat
The Ocicat may look fierce, yet it has a friendly nature. This breed is a mix of Siamese, Abyssinian, and American Shorthair. It’s known for its sociable and playful behavior.
Size Of The Ocicat
Ocicats are medium to large in size. Adults can weigh between 6 to 15 pounds.
Coat Length And Texture
Their coat is remarkable with a short to medium length. It’s also satiny to the touch. 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters).
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair stands out in the feline world with its striking appearance. This breed’s sleek body, almond-shaped eyes, and large ears create a look that cat enthusiasts adore.
Overview
The Oriental Shorthair is a breed that captivates at first glance. Boasting a wide array of colors and patterns, they sport a short, glossy coat that hugs their svelte frame. This breed’s personality is as vibrant as its appearance, making it a beloved companion.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 4.5 kilograms) |
| Coat Length | 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters). |
Tonkinese
Among the captivating medium hair cat breeds, the Tonkinese shines with its affectionate nature and striking appearance. This breed blends the best of its Burmese and Siamese ancestors into a cat that’s both social and intelligent.
Overview
The Tonkinese cat is known for its sparkling, aquamarine eyes and a silky coat that comes in a variety of shades. These medium-sized cats have a muscular build, which adds to their charming look. Their warm and playful personalities make them the perfect companion in any home.
| Size | 6 to 12 pounds (2.7 to 5.4 kilograms) |
| Coat Length | 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters) |
Russian Blue
In the world of feline beauty, the Russian Blue stands out. This breed captivates with elegance. Known for its mesmerizing coat and affectionate nature, this medium hair cat breed enchants cat enthusiasts around the globe.
Overview
The Russian Blue is a breed with a rich history and a unique look. Owners fall in love with their striking green eyes and plush blue-grey coat. They are medium in size. Their coat length is an eye-catcher, dense and soft to the touch.
Size
The Russian Blue cat boasts a medium build. Adults typically weigh between 7 to 15 pounds. They have a fine bone structure but are surprisingly strong and muscular.
Coat Length
This breed has a medium length, double-layer coat. It is thick and plush, feeling luxurious to the touch. 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters).
Scottish Fold
With their unique folded ears and expressive eyes, the Scottish Fold easily charms cat lovers around the world. This breed stands out among medium hair cats.
Scottish Fold Overview
Scottish Folds are famous for their owl-like appearance. Their ears fold forward and downward. Not all kittens have folded ears; some retain straight ears. Their medium hair coat is plush and soft to the touch.
Key traits of the Scottish Fold include: a round face, large eyes, and a mild-mannered temperament. These cats often sit in the “Buddha” position, with their legs stretched out and paws on their belly. It’s both endearing and amusing.
- Origin: Scotland
- Lifespan: 11-14 years
- Personality: Sweet-tempered, playful
- Size: Medium, with males often larger than females. 6 to 13 pounds (2.7 to 5.9 kilograms)
- Coat Length: Medium, with a dense and soft texture. 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters).
Singapura
The Singapura cat stands out with its enchanting eyes and a loving personality. Originating from Singapore, this breed boasts a unique coat and is considered one of the smallest cat breeds.
Overview Of The Singapura
Singapura cats capture hearts with their striking appearance and petite frame. Their large eyes and ears give them a whimsical, elfin look that enchants cat enthusiasts around the globe. Despite their small size, Singapuras are muscular and agile, able to leap and play with grace.
- Size: Small to medium, 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms)
- Coat Length: 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 centimeters).
- Color: Sepia tones
- Breed Traits: Affectionate, Curious, Interactive
Somali
Whisking into the enchanting realm of medium-hair felines, the Somali cat bounds forward with an allure that captivates the hearts of cat lovers. This breed showcases a unique combination of playful personality and stunning looks. Embarking on the tale of the Somali, let’s discover what makes this breed an exquisite feline gem.
Somali Cat Overview
The Somali cat, often referred to as the long-haired Abyssinian, exhibits a wild beauty with its fox-like bushy tail and alert, large ears.
- Size: 8 to 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kilograms)
- Coat Length: 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters).
- Color: (reddish-brown).
- Breed Traits: Somali cats are affectionate, playful, and intelligent.
Conclusion
Exploring the world of medium hair cat breeds reveals a stunning array of feline beauty. From the playful antics of the Maine Coon to the regal presence of the Siberian, each breed carries its own charm. As you consider welcoming one into your home, remember that the perfect cat isn’t just about looks—it’s about the unique bond it will share with you.
Read also: 5 Reasons Why Cats Close Their Eyes When You Pet Them
