Aegean

Breed Characteristics:

Affectionate with Family

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Some cat breeds are typically independent and aloof, even if they've been raised by the same person since kittenhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn't the only factor that goes into affection levels; cats who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.See Cats Less Affectionate with Family

Amount of Shedding

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If you're going to share your home with a cat, you'll need to deal with some level of cat hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary among the breeds. If you're a neatnik, you'll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. This furniture cover can make it easier to clean up cat hair and keep it off your sofa!

• See Cats with Low Amount of Shedding

General Health

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Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems. This doesn't mean that every cat of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they're at an increased risk. If you're looking only for purebred cats or kittens, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you're interested in.See Cats Prone to Health Problems

Potential for Playfulness

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Some cats are perpetual kittens—full of energy and mischief—while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful kitten sounds endearing, consider how many games of chase the mouse-toy you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other animals who can stand in as playmates. A classic wand cat toy like this one is perfect for playful felines!

• See Cats with Low Potential for Playfulness

Tendency to Vocalize

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Some breeds sound off more often than others with meows, yowls, and chattering. When choosing a breed, think about how the cat vocalizes and how often. If constant "conversation" drives you crazy, consider a kitty less likely to chat.See Cats with Lower Tendency to Vocalize

Kid-Friendly

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Being tolerant of children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a nonchalant attitude toward running, screaming youngsters are all traits that make a kid-friendly cat. Our ratings are generalizations, and they're not a guarantee of how any breed or individual cat will behave; cats from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences and personality.See Least Kid Friendly Cats

Friendly Toward Strangers

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Stranger-friendly cats will greet guests with a curious glance or a playful approach; others are shy or indifferent, perhaps even hiding under furniture or skedaddling to another room. However, no matter what the breed, a cat who was exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a kitten will respond better to strangers as an adult.

• See Cats Shy Toward Strangers

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Easy to Groom

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Some breeds require very little in the way of grooming; others require regular brushing to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a cat who needs daily brushing. You should definitely pick up this awesome de-shedding tool for cats of any hair length!

• See Cats That Need to Groom

Intelligence

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Some cat breeds are reputed to be smarter than others. But all cats, if deprived the mental stimulation they need, will make their own busy work. Interactive cat toys are a good way to give a cat a brain workout and keep them out of mischief. This scratcher cat toy can keep your smart kitty busy even when you're not home!

• See Cats with Less Intelligence

Pet Friendly

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Friendliness toward other household animals and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some cats are more likely than others to be accepting of other pets in the home.

• See Least Pet Friendly Cats

More About This Breed

• History

  The Aegean cat breed hails from the Greek islands of Cyclades, which are situated in the Aegean Sea. It's speculated that originating so close to the sea is why these felines are not afraid of water.

  The breed's friendliness towards humans is also said to come from their upbringing, being around sailors and fishermen all the time. In Greece, the Aegean is a super popular cat breed, although it is rarer to come across them in other countries.

  If you're considering adding an Aegean to your family, remember that many have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you!

• Size

  The Aegean is a medium-sized cat. As is often the case with cat breeds, exact size standards might vary.

  Most male Aegean cats weigh in at nine to ten pounds and most female Aegeans are between seven and nine pounds.

• Personality

  The Aegean cat is one of the most friendly and sociable cat breeds around. They make great additions to any large family and will constantly look to seek out human interaction, whether that's to relax together during down times or for energetic play sessions.

  These athletic cats are also highly intelligent--in many cases Aegeans have been taught to perform tricks. While the Aegean has an independent streak, they do best in a bustling household where there's always activity going on that the cat can check out. This breed loves to be part of the action!

  The Aegean also has a love of being outdoors, so if you can provide a safely-enclosed catio, they'll very much appreciate it. Just be warned: Due to Aegeans being part of a rare group of cats who enjoy water, they might come to see any pet fish as an opportunity for a snack session.

• Health

  Aegeans are generally considered to be healthy cats--and to date there are not any breed specific health issues associated with the cat.

  Although, as with any breed, it's important to schedule regular wellness visits with your cat's vet.

• Care

  The Aegean cat has a well deserved reputation as a smart and athletic feline, so you'll need to ensure that the breed is always kept physically and mentally stimulated.

  Ideally, you'll want to purchase a cat tree for your Aegean to interact with, and if you live in an environment with furniture that the cat can safely climb up and down, they will very much appreciate the opportunity to explore.

  Leaving smart toys and interactive treat dispensers around the home is also a great way to keep the Aegean mentally stimulated.

  Along with scheduling yearly wellness vet visits, your Aegean will need their nails checked on a regular basis. Ask your vet how best to do this if you're new to feline maintenance. You'll also want to examine the cat's ears for signs of dirt building up or possible infection, and clean them if needed.

  Also, make sure to speak to your regular vet about a teeth brushing regimen for your Aegean.

• Coat Color And Grooming

  The main color of the Aegean's coat is white, and it usually has spots and markings in colors including black, gray, and blue. The markings on the cat vary on an individual basis.

  The Aegeon is relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, although their plush coat will get thicker in winter. Shedding is mostly moderate, and brushing the breed a couple of time a week should suffice.

  As with all breeds, keep a close eye out for any mats that might be starting to develop while you're grooming the cat. Remember, regular brushing will help keep the cat's coat clean and healthy.

  When it comes to climate, the Aegean is a generally seen as an adaptable cat who can usually live happily in most climates. Just remember to always make sure adequate shade and fresh water is provided when the temperature spikes.

• Children And Other Pets

  The Aegean is wonderful with children. The cat will quickly form loving bonds with the kids in your home. Just be sure that early socialization takes place and boundaries are properly set on both sides--and supervise early interactions between kids and cats.

  When it comes to other household pets, the Aegean is also usually fine around other domestic animals--although, as mentioned above, this is not a cat to leave unsupervised around fish or other water-based pets.

  Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Aegean for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home to your family.

• Rescue Groups

  It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Aegeans because they are a somewhat rare outside of Greece. However, you may want to try shelters and rescues that cater to all types of cats, including Aegeans, as well as your local shelter. Here are some nonprofit rescues you can try:

  • Hope for Paws
  • Best Friends Animal Society

  You can also try CatTime's adoption page that lets you search for adoptable cats by breed and zip code!