10 Popular Cat Breeds in Singapore: Which Breed is Right For You?

Are you planning to get a cat for your household? These furry companions are full of love and affection, making them a perfect addition to anyone’s life. There are many types of cats available, but not all of them are suited for every home. Some cat breeds have specific requirements and can only live a good life based on specific conditions. To know more about the many cat breeds, continue reading below so you can make a more informed decision.

Why Choosing the Right Cat Matters

Since each cat breed has its own characteristics, personality and grooming requirements, you’ll have to know the environment that suits the specific breed. By choosing the right type of cats according to their traits, you can ensure that the cat will lead a happier life with their owners.

Popular Cat Breeds in Singapore

There are many cat breeds on the island. However, there are a select few that you can find kept in most households. Here are the most common types of cats in Singapore that pet owners love:

1. Maine Coon

Maine Coon is the largest cat breed that can grow as long as 100cm in length. They are also commonly referred to as cat dogs due to their playful nature that loves playing fetch. They also enjoy bonding with children and dogs. This cat breed also has water-resistant fur, so you can always find them playing in water.

2. British Shorthair

British Shorthairs would be ideal if you’re looking for the types of cats that will be your trusted furry companions. They love being around people and will always follow you around while seeking affection. If you’re worried about hygiene, you can ease your worries as British Shorthair cats are known to be clean and groom their coats. You can also find them having friendly relationships with dogs and children.

3. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are known to have a long lifespan, between 15 and 20 years and are very patient. They are also obedient, affectionate and lovable, making them perfect for those who love to cuddle with cats. Similar to dogs, cats will always follow you around and love to play fetch when trained accordingly. You can also find them playing with running water.

4. Persian

If you’re looking for the types of cats that are calm and affectionate, Persians would be the best cat breed for you. Persians are known for their love of connecting and bonding with humans, and they can often feel neglected without this connection. Their coat should also be regularly brushed and combed to remove dirt and dead fur. They tend to dislike loud noises or too active environments, so they are more suited within a calm and stable household.

5. Bengal

Bengal is a cat breed that has a similar physical appearance to leopards. They have spots similar to the mentioned wild animal, but they don’t share the same characteristics. Bengals are playful, active and naturally curious by nature. Since they love to explore due to their intense curiosity, you can find them randomly jumping and running about.

6. Siamese

Siamese cats are among the best types of cats for owners who enjoy engaging in conversations with their pets. They are known to be extroverted, talkative and intelligent. If you have children, the Siamese cat breed would be the perfect choice, as they are known to be affectionate towards little ones. Siamese cats also have strong hearing and will express themselves vocally for almost anything they want.

7. Siberian

Siberian cats have long, thick fur that comes in various colours, including red, black, white, silver, and blue. Their fur also consists of several patterns, such as bicolor or tortoiseshell. Due to their thick coat, owners have to brush them a minimum of three times a week and bathe them frequently. Siberian cats also have high energy levels and enjoy climbing to high places. They are also very loyal and lovable, making them an ideal choice for owners seeking a stable companion.

8. Russian Blue

This cat breed originated in Russia, hence its name, Russian Blue. They are known to be extremely loyal to their owners and are affectionate towards them. If they don’t receive sufficient affection, they may get upset. Thus, this breed is suitable for owners who are present frequently and can provide them with consistent love.

9. Munchkin

Munchkin is actually a breed that comes from the United States of America (USA). They are also known as a breed that’s equivalent to the dog breed corgi. They have short legs due to a genetic mutation. Although they are short, they are friendly and love to interact with people.

10. Singapura Cat

The Singapura Cat or Kucinta is a domestic Singapore cat breed that was introduced in the early 1970s. The Singapura cat is the smallest breed of cat known for its large eyes and ears, ticked coat and blunt tail. This cat breed can survive between 9 to 15 years and is very active. They won’t shed excessively, but you may need to brush out their fur once every two weeks.

Best Cat Breed for Small Apartments

The cat breeds listed below are suitable for small apartments due to several characteristics, including short hair, adaptability to small spaces, gentleness, and a love of affection.

• British Shorthair
• Burmese
• Devon Rex
• Ragdoll

Best Cat Breed for Families with Children

If you wish to get a cat while having children around the house, these cat breeds would be suitable to avoid any potential harm. These cat breeds are known to be patient, gentle, and affectionate while also playful, making them great for children who love to have fun with cats.

• Siamese
• Persian
• Burmese
• Ragdoll

Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds in Singapore

Having cat allergies can be a pain, but if you're allergic to cats, it's helpful to know that some breeds have hypoallergenic traits. These cat breeds produce fewer allergens and shed less, preventing the fur from dropping all over the place, which can trigger allergies. However, there is no truly hypoallergenic cat breed, all cats produce allergens to some degree, The term "hypoallergenic" means fewer allergens, not allergen-free.However, these car breeds are known to produce fewer allergens:

• Siberian
• Balinese
• Russian Blue
• Devon Rex

Health, Vaccination & Microchipping Your Cat in Singapore

There are certain guidelines to follow based on every cat breed. Here are some of the standard health and microchipping guidelines to adhere to if you have a cat in Singapore: 

• Nutrition or Daily Diet: You should always choose the suitable food for your cat breed. Certain breeds may require high-protein and other specific requirements. It’s also good to balance between dry cat food and wet cat food.
• Spaying or Neutering: All of your cats should be neutered or spayed to maintain the overall stray cat population.
• Vaccination: Most cats require yearly vaccination.
• Microchipping: If your cat goes missing in Singapore, microchipping helps to find them easily.
• Fleas or Ticks: It’s best to use treatments for fleas or ticks so that your cat doesn’t attract them.

Where to Adopt Cats in Singapore

If you’re keen on adopting a cat in Singapore, here are some organizations that provides adoption of various types of cats.

1. Causes for Animals Singapore: Offers an adoption fee rate of $100 to $150 which includes de-worming, vaccination, microchipping and flea & tick treatment

2. Animal Lovers League: Free of charge

3. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA): Adoption fees ranges between $25 to $200 and includes de-worming, microchipping, sterilisation, vaccination, registration and licensing

4. Love Kuching Project: Has an adoption fee of $65 only

5. Cat Welfare Society: Adoption rates are $40 to $80, depending on the fosterer

Conclusion

Now that you’ve understood the different types of cats, you can make a wiser choice when you’re ready to adopt! Don’t forget to prepare all the cat essentials such as cat food, cat toys, cat beds and mats which you can easily get from Perromart! We have everything you need to ensure your feline lives a happy life together with you.