How many cat breeds have people bred? - briefly
People have bred over 70 recognized cat breeds worldwide, each distinguished by unique physical and behavioral traits.
How many cat breeds have people bred? - in detail
People have bred a diverse array of cat breeds over centuries, with the exact number varying depending on the organization or registry that defines and recognizes these breeds. As of recent data, there are approximately 70 to 80 officially recognized cat breeds globally. These breeds are categorized by different feline registries, such as The International Cat Association (TICA), the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe), each of which may have slightly different criteria for recognition. Breeds are distinguished by their physical characteristics, such as coat length, color patterns, body shape, and facial structure, as well as their temperament and genetic lineage. Some breeds, like the Siamese and Persian, have ancient origins and have been refined over generations, while others, such as the Bengal or Savannah, are relatively modern hybrids created by crossing domestic cats with wild feline species. The process of breeding and recognizing new breeds is ongoing, as breeders experiment with genetics to produce cats with unique traits or to address specific health concerns. However, the creation of new breeds is carefully regulated to ensure the well-being of the animals and to maintain breed standards. Despite the number of recognized breeds, the vast majority of domestic cats are not purebred but are instead mixed-breed cats, often referred to as domestic shorthairs or longhairs.