--- title: "Popular cat breeds in Australia" id: "6191" type: "post" slug: "popular-cat-breeds-in-australia" published_at: "2026-08-05T12:13:19+00:00" modified_at: "2026-08-14T04:46:08+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/popular-cat-breeds-in-australia/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/popular-cat-breeds-in-australia.md" excerpt: "Please note: The following information is intended as a general guide only. Every cat is unique, and their personality, behaviour and health can be influenced by many factors, including their early experiences, environment, and individual needs. While certain cat breeds..." taxonomy_category: - "Facts & fun" --- [Pet Talk](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/) [Facts & fun](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/facts-and-fun/) Popular cat breeds in Australia Facts & fun # Popular cat breeds in Australia Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 5 Aug, 2026 - 13 min read **Please note:** The following information is intended as a general guide only. Every cat is unique, and their personality, behaviour and health can be influenced by many factors, including their early experiences, environment, and individual needs. While certain cat breeds may share some common characteristics, no two cats are exactly alike. Learning about a breed’s general care requirements, typical temperament, grooming needs, and potential health considerations can be a helpful starting point, but there are many factors to consider when choosing a cat or kitten. It’s also important to think about your lifestyle, financial situation, and the time and commitment required to care for a cat throughout their life. Taking the time to make an informed decision about whether you’re ready to welcome a cat into your household can help set both you and your potential new feline companion up for success. In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the most popular cat breeds in Australia, their care needs, common characteristics, and some of the health conditions that may be associated with them. Whether you’re considering a particular cat breed or planning to adopt a cat, remember that every cat is an individual with their own personality, needs, and preferences. RSPCA shelters are home to many wonderful cats and kittens, and RSPCA staff can help match you with a cat who is a good fit for your household. **Table of contents** - [British Shorthair](#british-shorthair) - [Ragdoll](#ragdoll) - [Burmese](#burmese) - [Domestic Shorthair](#domestic-shorthair) - [Domestic Medium Hair](#domestic-medium-hair) - [Choosing the right cat for you](#choosing-the-right-cat-for-you) - [How pet insurance can help support you and your cat](#how-pet-insurance-can-help-support-you-and-your-cat) ## British Shorthair With their plush coats, round faces and dignified expressions, British Shorthairs have a look that’s hard to miss. Many are known for their calm, affectionate nature and quiet companionship. ### Temperament British Shorthairs are often described as calm, loyal, and quietly affectionate, although every cat has their own personality. While their temperaments can vary, many enjoy spending time close to their people without being especially vocal or demanding. ### Care Despite their thick double coat, British Shorthairs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A brush once or twice a week is usually enough to help manage shedding, although more frequent grooming may be beneficial during seasonal coat changes. British Shorthairs are generally not highly active cats, but regular play and exercise are still very important. Scratching posts, secure climbing structures, puzzle feeders, and interactive toys can all help keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Because British Shorthairs can be prone to weight gain, maintaining a healthy weight is important. If needed, your vet can advise you on an appropriate diet for your cat. ### Health considerations British Shorthairs may be predisposed to certain inherited health conditions. One of the most significant is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that causes the heart muscle to thicken abnormally and may require ongoing vet monitoring and management. British Shorthairs can also be prone to obesity, which can place additional strain on the heart and joints. Some may also be affected by haemophilia B, a rare inherited blood-clotting disorder that can cause excessive bleeding following injury or surgery. As they age, British Shorthairs may develop osteoarthritis, which can affect their mobility and comfort. Some British Shorthairs may also have a brachycephalic (flat-faced) conformation, which is associated with breathing difficulties and other serious health and welfare problems that can affect a cat’s quality of life. As with all cats, dental disease is another important health consideration. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for monitoring a cat’s health and helping to detect potential problems early. **Read our [British Shorthair breed guide](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/british-shorthair/)** ## Ragdoll Known for their striking blue eyes and silky coats, Ragdolls are one of Australia’s most recognisable cat breeds. Their name comes from their tendency to relax when held, although every cat has their own preferences and not all Ragdolls enjoy being picked up. ### Temperament Ragdolls are often described as calm, affectionate, and easy-going, although every cat has their own individual personality. Many enjoy spending time with their families and being involved in whatever’s happening at home. They generally get along well with children and other pets, provided introductions are handled carefully and interactions are appropriately supervised. ### Care A Ragdoll cat has a semi-long, silky coat that usually benefits from brushing two to three times a week. Pay particular attention to the neck, chest, belly and other areas where knots can form. Regular grooming can help reduce tangles and hairballs while giving you an opportunity to give your cat a simple check-over. Although Ragdolls are often described as laid-back, they still benefit from daily play and exercise. Interactive play, climbing structures, and food puzzles can help keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Because Ragdolls can be prone to weight gain, maintaining a healthy weight is important. If needed, your vet can advise you on an appropriate diet plan for your cat. ### Health considerations Ragdolls may be predisposed to certain inherited health conditions. One of the most significant is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that causes the heart muscle to thicken abnormally and may require ongoing vet monitoring and management. Ragdolls can also be prone to bladder or urinary stones and obesity, which may place additional strain on the heart and joints. Some Ragdolls may also be more vulnerable to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and their longer coat may also make them more prone to hairball-related issues if it isn’t groomed regularly. As with all cats, dental disease is another important health consideration. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for monitoring a cat’s health and helping to detect potential problems early. **Read our [Ragdoll breed guide](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/ragdoll/)** ## Burmese Burmese cats tend to bring plenty of personality into a home. They’re sometimes described as dog-like because of the way they follow their people around, seek out interaction, and remain playful well into adulthood. ### Temperament Burmese cats are typically outgoing, affectionate, and strongly people-oriented. They often enjoy being involved in family life and may happily trail behind you as you move around the house. That close attachment means some Burmese cats can find spending long periods of time alone challenging. They may be best suited to homes where someone is often around or where they have a compatible animal companion, such as another cat with whom they have a positive, established relationship. ### Care Their short, satin-like coat makes the Burmese simple to groom. A gentle weekly brush or wipe with a soft, clean, damp cloth is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep it looking glossy. Burmese cats tend to have moderate to high activity needs. Daily interactive play, exercise opportunities and plenty of social interaction can help satisfy their need for movement and mental stimulation. ### Health considerations Burmese cats may be predisposed to certain inherited health conditions. One of the most significant is diabetes mellitus, making healthy weight management and an appropriate diet particularly important. Some Burmese cats may also be affected by hypokalaemia, an inherited condition associated with low potassium levels and episodes of muscle weakness. This condition has been reported in some Australian and New Zealand Burmese cat breeding lines. Other possible health concerns include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that causes the heart muscle to thicken abnormally and may require ongoing vet monitoring and management, and orofacial pain syndrome, a neurological condition that can cause discomfort in the mouth, jaw, and face. As with all cats, dental disease is another important health consideration. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for monitoring a cat’s health and helping to detect potential problems early. **Read our [Burmese breed guide](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/burmese/)** ## Domestic Shorthair Domestic Shorthairs are among Australia’s most familiar felines. You’ll find them in a wide variety of coat colours and patterns, and their highly individual personalities can be just as varied, ranging from outgoing and affectionate, to gentle and reserved, or somewhere in between. ### Temperament Because Domestic Shorthairs come from such varied backgrounds, there’s no single personality type. Some are devoted lap cats, some are energetic explorers, and others prefer to interact on their own terms. Early experiences, socialisation, and each cat’s individual nature all help shape how they respond to people, other animals, and new situations. Taking the time to learn about an individual cat’s personality, preferences, and care needs can help you find a good match for your household. ### Care Domestic Shorthairs generally have low-maintenance coats. A weekly brush can help remove loose fur, reduce shedding, and keep their skin and coat in good condition. Their exercise needs vary, but every cat benefits from regular play, social interaction, and opportunities to exercise. Activities such as climbing, scratching, hiding, exploring and play can help keep Domestic Shorthairs physically active and mentally stimulated. ### Health considerations Thanks to their genetic diversity, Domestic Shorthairs generally have fewer breed-specific hereditary health conditions than many pedigree cats. However, they can still be affected by a range of common feline health problems. These may include obesity, feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and respiratory infections such as cat flu. As with all cats, dental disease is another important health consideration. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for monitoring a cat’s health and helping to detect potential problems early. **Read our [Domestic Shorthair breed guide](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-shorthair/)** ## Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Medium Hairs are a diverse type of cat, with a coat that sits somewhere between short and long. Like Domestic Shorthairs, they’re a type of cat rather than a recognised breed, which means their appearance and personality can vary considerably. ### Temperament Domestic Medium Hairs may be playful, relaxed, affectionate, reserved, or somewhere in between. With positive early socialisation and a home that meets their needs, many are friendly, adaptable companions. Because every cat is an individual, taking the time to learn about their personality, preferences, and care needs can help you find a good match for your household. ### Care Their medium-length coat needs a little more attention than a shorthair’s. Brushing two to three times a week can help prevent tangles and reduce loose hair. Focus on areas where mats are more likely to form, including behind the ears, neck, chest, and around the belly. Regular grooming may also help reduce tangles and hairballs, while providing an opportunity to give your cat a simple check-over. Like Domestic Shorthairs, their exercise needs vary, but every cat benefits from regular play, social interaction, and opportunities to exercise. Activities such as climbing, scratching, hiding, exploring and play can help keep Domestic Medium Hairs physically active and mentally stimulated. ### Health considerations As a genetically diverse group, Domestic Medium Hairs tend to have fewer breed-specific hereditary health conditions. That said, they can still experience general feline health concerns including obesity, feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and respiratory infections such as cat flu. Their longer coat may also make them more prone to hairball-related issues if it isn’t groomed regularly. As with all cats, dental disease is another important health consideration. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for monitoring a cat’s health and helping to detect potential problems early. **Read our [Domestic Medium Hair breed guide](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-medium-hair/)** ## Choosing the right cat for you There’s no single ‘best’ cat for every household. Before choosing a cat, think about what day-to-day life together might look like. Consider: - Whether you’re ready for the long-term responsibility and commitment involved in caring for a cat - Whether your lifestyle allows you to meet a cat’s physical, behavioural, and social needs - The cat’s individual personality, preferences, health, and care needs, rather than focusing on appearance or breed alone - Whether your cat is likely to spend long periods of time alone - Whether everyone in the household is comfortable with, and committed to, having a cat - Whether you have children or other pets, and whether a cat is likely to be a suitable fit for your household - Whether you can provide a safe and stimulating environment for a cat - Whether anyone in your household has allergies - Your financial situation and the ongoing costs of food, vet care, grooming, enrichment, and other essentials While understanding common breed characteristics can provide useful guidance, they’re never a guarantee and are only one of many factors to consider when thinking about adding a cat to your household. Every cat is an individual, so it’s important to consider their personality, preferences, health, and care needs when choosing a companion animal. Adoption is also worth considering. RSPCA shelters care for kittens and adult cats of many different coat types, colours, and personalities. Shelter staff get to know the animals in their care and can help match you with a cat whose personality and needs are a good fit for your household. If you’re looking to adopt, visit your local RSPCA shelter or browse the cats available through [adoptapet.com.au](https://www.adoptapet.com.au/) You can also explore the RSPCA’s information on adopting a cat or kitten and the [RSPCA Smart Kitten and Cat Buyer’s Guide](https://kb.rspca.org.au/assets/Downloads/Smart-Kitten-and-Cat-Buyers-Guide-2024.pdf) , which provides practical advice to help you make informed decisions when choosing a cat or kitten and preparing to welcome them into your home. If you’ve recently welcomed a cat into your home, explore the RSPCA’s [enrichment guide](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/how-can-i-create-low-cost-diy-enrichment-for-my-cat-or-dog) for ideas on how to support their physical and mental wellbeing. ## How pet insurance can help support you and your cat Whichever type of cat you choose to welcome into your household, all cats can experience illness, injury, or other health problems during their lives. Regular vet care is important for monitoring their health, supporting their wellbeing, and helping to detect potential problems early. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , eligible health conditions are covered, giving you the confidence to seek vet care when your cat needs it. And with every policy contributing to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own cat and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your pet, click [here](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Pet Insurance. *British Shorthair cat insurance.* Available from: [https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/british-shorthair/](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/british-shorthair/) [2] RSPCA Pet Insurance. *Ragdoll cat insurance.* Available from: [https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/ragdoll/](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/ragdoll/) [3] RSPCA Pet Insurance. *Burmese cat insurance.* Available from: [https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/burmese/](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/burmese/) [4] RSPCA Pet Insurance. *Domestic Shorthair cat insurance.* Available from: [https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-shorthair/](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-shorthair/) [5] RSPCA Pet Insurance. *Domestic Medium Hair cat insurance.* Available from: [https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-medium-hair/](https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/domestic-medium-hair/) [6] RSPCA Australia. *Adopting a cat or kitten.* Available from: [https://www.rspca.org.au/adopt/adopting-a-cat-or-kitten/](https://www.rspca.org.au/adopt/adopting-a-cat-or-kitten/) [7] RSPCA Australia. *Smart Kitten and Cat Buyers Guide.* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/assets/Downloads/Smart-Kitten-and-Cat-Buyers-Guide-2024.pdf](https://kb.rspca.org.au/assets/Downloads/Smart-Kitten-and-Cat-Buyers-Guide-2024.pdf) [8] National Library of Medicine. *Flat-Faced or Non-Flat-Faced Cats? That Is the Question.* Available from: [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9854927/](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9854927/#:~:text=Analysing%20some%20cat%20breed%20registers,breeds%20%5B%2C6%5D) ## FAQs ### What is the most popular cat breed in Australia? Domestic Shorthairs and Domestic Medium Hairs are among the most popular cat types in Australia. These cats come from diverse backgrounds and can have a wide range of personalities and characteristics. ### Is a Domestic Shorthair a recognised cat breed? Not exactly. A Domestic Shorthair is a type of cat rather than a recognised breed. The term ‘Domestic Shorthair’ refers to cats with short coats and mixed ancestry, which is why they can vary so much in appearance and personality. Because of their broad genetic diversity, Domestic Shorthairs may be less likely to experience some inherited health conditions that can occur in certain pedigree cat breeds. However, like all cats, they can still develop health issues throughout their lives, making regular vet check-ups important for monitoring their health and detecting potential problems early. ### What should first-time cat owners consider when choosing a cat? When choosing a cat or kitten, it’s important to take your time and think about what type of cat is right for you and your family. There’s no single ‘best’ cat breed for everyone. The right choice depends on factors such as your lifestyle, circumstances, and your ability to meet the cat’s needs. Consider factors such as the cat’s individual personality, activity levels, grooming requirements, and ongoing care needs. If you’re looking to adopt, visit your local RSPCA shelter or browse the cats available through [adoptapet.com.au](https://www.adoptapet.com.au/) RSPCA staff can help match you with a cat whose personality and needs are a good fit for your household. You can also explore the [RSPCA Smart Kitten and Cat Buyer’s Guide](https://kb.rspca.org.au/assets/Downloads/Smart-Kitten-and-Cat-Buyers-Guide-2024.pdf) , which provides practical advice to help you make informed decisions when choosing a cat or kitten and preparing to welcome them into your home. ### Which cat breed is easiest to care for? Every cat is an individual, and the amount of care they require can vary. While cats with shorter coats such as Domestic Shorthair or British Shorthair may generally need less grooming than cats with longer coats, caring for a cat involves much more than coat maintenance. Before bringing a cat home, take time to research their specific care requirements, consider ongoing costs, time commitment, and responsibilities involved in caring for a cat throughout their life. ### Is it worth having pet insurance for a cat? Even generally healthy cats can experience unexpected illnesses or injuries, and treatment costs can add up quickly. Pet insurance can help give you peace of mind by helping with the cost of eligible vet expenses, so you can focus on your cat’s care rather than worrying about the bill. With RSPCA Pet Insurance, you may be eligible to claim for these health conditions provided they are covered depending on the level of cover you choose, which can help you manage the cost of unexpected vet treatment throughout your cat’s life. And with every policy contributing to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own cat and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more, visit the RSPCA Pet Insurance [website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) or get a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) today. As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure this cover suits your needs. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [What your pet’s nap spot preference might say about them Jul 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/pets-nap-spot/) [Why owning a pet could be good for your health Jul 2026 - 9 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/owning-a-pet-good-for-health/) [Why do cats wag their tails? Jul 2026 - 8 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/why-do-cats-wag-their-tails/)