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Persian

Breed Profile: Persian - Tabby Division

Pictured: Best of Breed GC, BW, NW VOLUMINOUS CRIMSON PIRATE, Red Mackerel Tabby Persian - Tabby Division Male Photo: © Chanan

The Tabbies are the extroverts of the Persian breed. They come in three patterns: classic, mackerel and patched tabby. The patched tabby may exhibit either the classic or mackerel pattern with the addition of patches of red. The classic tabby is identified by the bull’s eye markings on the side of the body while the mackerel pattern is characterized by narrow penciling encircling the body. The brilliantly contrasted markings can be as striking as an exotic jungle cat. Often referred to as the “fun’’ cat, tabbies are outgoing and demonstrative. Their facial markings give them a zesty added appeal. Recognized colors are silver, blue silver, red, brown, blue, cream, cameo and cream cameo. There are no patched tabby patterns in red, cream and cameo. All have brilliant copper eyes except silver varieties which also may have green or hazel.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

Pictured: Second Best of Breed GC, RW ANGELSPUR WINSTON, Brown Tabby Persian - Tabby Division Male Photo: © Chanan

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Pictured: Third Best of Breed GC, RW BOBERAN'S WILD BURN OF JENNA-PURRZ, Red Tabby Persian - Tabby Division Male Photo: © Larry Johnson

There are CFA clubs devoted to the promotion, protection and preservation of the Persian breed. For more information, please send inquiries to CFA, PO Box 1005, Manasquan NJ 08736-0805.

Text: Jeanie McPhee
Last Updated: Friday, June 13, 2008

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