National Cats vs. Internet-Famous Breeds: How to Choose
Cute cat photos flood the internet, and many people pick a cat purely by looks. But according to the 2026 China Pet Industry White Paper, the real structure of Chinese household cats is different from online impressions: Chinese domestic cats (田园猫) account for over 70% of all household cats - the true “national cat” - followed by British Shorthairs, American Shorthairs, Ragdolls, Golden Chinchillas, Siamese and Maine Coons. Each breed’s temperament, health and care demands differ hugely, and an owner’s choice often mirrors their housing, time budget and emotional expectations.
Chinese Domestic Cats: The National Cat
Orange tabbies, tabby-and-white (狸花), calicos and tuxedo cats all belong to this group. Most come from rescue or adoption at very low cost. Their greatest advantage is robust health - natural selection means strong genetics, generally better digestion and immunity.
Orange tabbies are usually easygoing but prone to obesity; 狸花 cats are intelligent and alert with strong hunting instincts; tuxedo cats are energetic and playful; calicos tend to be gentle and sensitive. Overall costs are controllable and they adapt to changeable rental environments. But some individuals are independent and dislike being held - always keep windows screened indoors. People who choose domestic cats value easy care and pure companionship over looks and pedigree.
British Shorthair: The Beginner’s Gate to Purebreds
The most widely owned purebred category - blues, blue-and-white, silver chinchillas and golden chinchillas are all BSH branches. The iconic round face is endearing; the temperament is gentle, quiet and rarely noisy; the short coat is easy to manage - great for apartments.
But BSH cats gain weight easily, which can trigger heart disease and joint problems, so diet needs strict control. Their biggest care pain point is heavy shedding. Best for office workers, apartment dwellers and owners who love a calm atmosphere.
American Shorthair: The Little Sun of Cats
Tabbies and patch tabbies are hugely popular. Excellent health and noticeably more active than BSH. ASH cats have fewer hereditary diseases, high intelligence and strong curiosity, loving to jump and race around. They’re affectionate and tolerant - good with children; the flip side is high energy, and without toys and interaction they may redecorate your home. A cat tree is recommended to release their exercise needs.
Ragdoll: The Fairy Cat
Long fur, sapphire-blue eyes - hugely popular on social media. Ragdolls are gentle and patient with a weak pain response, but their downsides are clear: sensitive stomachs, and long fur that mats quickly without regular grooming and professional care. Best for owners with abundant time and energy to devote to coat maintenance.
Siamese: The Chatty Cat
Originally from Thailand, medium-sized with a loud voice; their facial color deepens with temperature and age - nicknamed “coal miner cats.” Siamese are highly intelligent with dog-like loyalty and can learn simple games. But they vocalize loudly, even at night. Best for owners who don’t mind noise and enjoy high-frequency interaction.
Maine Coon: The Gentle Giant
The largest pet cat breed raised in Chinese homes - imposing in size yet soft and affectionate in personality. Maine Coons are tolerant, but they eat a lot, need daily brushing of their long fur, and require an extra-large litter box; cramped rentals don’t suit them. Best for spacious homes with generous budgets that love big cats.
There Is No Perfect Cat
Domestic cats win on health; BSH offers calm, laid-back companionship; ASH is lively and family-friendly; Ragdolls are stunning but high-maintenance; Siamese are vocal; Maine Coons demand space and budget. Don’t choose by internet photos alone - breed is just a reference; your housing space, disposable time and budget are the real yardsticks.
Pricey pedigree doesn’t equal easy care, and a plain domestic cat gives just as wholehearted companionship. We choose our cats’ looks and temperaments; cats entrust us with a decade-plus of their lives. Bringing a cat home is a solemn promise.
More cat wisdom in our Cat Care column, presented by NAJI princess.