White cats are some of the most popular pets in the world. And while all white cats may look similar to the untrained eye, there is actually a lot of diversity among these felines.
In fact, there are 39 different types of white cat breeds recognized by various animal organizations.
So if you’re looking for an uncommon pet that’s still within the realm of domesticated animals, consider one of these unique white cat breeds. From the elegant Russian White to the playful American Curl, there’s sure to be a perfect fit for you and your family!
39. Persian Cat
The elegant Persian is a white cat breed characterized by its luxurious coat, round face, and short muzzle. These beautiful cats have their origins in the Persian/Iran region. With their regal bearing and adorable looks, Persians are one of the most popular white cat breeds.
Persians are docile and sweet-natured, but these dignified kitties do not like noisy environments. They will not do well around noisy children and pets. Persians are also high-maintenance in terms of grooming.
38. Siamese Cat
The Siamese Cat is one of the most recognizable cat breeds. With their distinctive markings and dense coats, these kitties are unique beauties. Their muscular bodies are powerfully built and come in many different colors. Some Siamese Cats will have a kink in their tails.
Siamese Cats are very playful and vocal and like to engage in kitty conversations. These kitties also love to cuddle and will jump on your lap at every opportunity. These affectionate cats get on well with children and other pets.
37. Kurilian Bobtail
This adorable breed is known for its puffy short tail and long hind legs. Kurilian bobtails are a sturdy breed with a long lifespan of up to 20 years.
Kurilian bobtails come in a variety of colors and can be short or long-haired. These cats may look a little wild, but they are a mild-mannered, easy-going breed. These cuties are rare but if you do get one, make sure they get lots of exercise.
36. Peterbald
Peterbalds are a white cat breed that is known for their unique hairless body. These kitties come in all colors and have a slim muscular build that lends them their graceful bearing.
Peterbalds are the perfect pet if you want a cat that gets on with children and other pets. These kitties are easy to train and shed very little, so if you want a low-maintenance feline, Peterbalds are a good choice.
35. Aegean Cat
Aegean cats are a mid-sized white cat breed native to Greece. These sociable kitties have muscular bodies and bi-colored coats that can be white with red, black, or cream. They are one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds.
Aegean cats are intelligent and affectionate felines that get on well with kids. However, these water-loving kitties love to fish and may not be ideal if you have pet fish at home.
34. American Wirehair
The American Wirehair is an even-tempered white cat breed. This breed is known for its muscular build and wiry and springy coat that can be bicolor or tri-colored. These kitties make great companions due to their affectionate nature.
American Wirehairs need to be kept on a healthy diet because they tend to be prone to obesity. Although this breed prefers to stay indoors, you will need to make ensure they get sufficient exercise.
33. British Longhair
The British Longhair is a beautiful white cat breed. Its adorable light-colored long coat and full cheeks are some of the unique features of this cuddly feline. These kitties also have muscular bodies and range from mid-large sized.
These kitties are happy to play on their own, even though they also like to be petted. British Longhairs tend to be an inactive breed, so you will need to encourage them to play and exercise to keep them healthy.
32. Burmilla
The Burmilla white cat breed is a cross between the Burmese cats and the Chinchilla Persian. Their striking silver coat and large, lively eyes are just some of the unique features of these independent cats.
The Burmilla get on well with children and other pets due to their social and playful nature. They will require daily brushing to keep their lovely coats matt-free. This white cat breed tends to be stocky, so a healthy diet is crucial.
31. Selkirk Rex
The adorable Selkirk Rex white cat breed has many fans, and not just because of its luxurious, curly coat. These laid-back kitties are medium to large-sized cat breeds with charming personalities and lots of affection for their companions.
These head-turning kitties come in all colors. Selkirk Rex is low maintenance, healthy and active breed. They shed minimally, and their curly coats only need to be combed once a week.
30. Javanese Cat
Agile, athletic, and playful, the Javanese white cat breed makes an entertaining companion. This breed has a long silky coat and comes in a variety of colors, including white. These fur babies are vocal and like to be the center of attention.
The Javanese breed is very attentive and tent to follow their owners around. they also have a very playful nature and love to run and jump around. These kitties are very intelligent and easy to train.
29. Khao Manee
Khao Manee cats are a rare white cat breed with origins in Thailand. These cats have short white coats and elegant muscular bodies. This breed has large distinctive eyes and pointy ears.
Khao Manee cats are a playful and active breed. These naughty kitties love to play and will do well in homes with children. The Khao Manee is a vocal breed, so kitty conversations are part of the deal if you adopt one of these charmers.
28. Cymric
The Cymric breed is a long-haired variety of the Manx breed. These cats have a rounded muscular build. Cymrics are tailless and come in a variety of colors, including white, tortoiseshell, black and brown.
These kitties are affectionate and docile, so they get on well with other pets. Cymrics have voracious appetites and can put on excess weight if their diet is not controlled. They also tend to shed a lot and need to be brushed daily.
27. Van Cat
Van cats are a white cat breed from Turkey. One of the most distinctive features of these kitties is their mismatched eyes, one amber-green eye, and one blue eye (dyschromatopsia). Van cats have a beautiful silky white coat that sheds very little and requires minimal grooming.
Athletic and agile, these water-loving cats are affectionate companions that need lots of attention and playtime. You will have no problem training these highly intelligent cats.
26. Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is a medium-sized white cat breed with origins in Egypt. This breed has a graceful and lithe body and is considered the fastest domestic cat. Its coat comes in a variety of colors ranging from silver to smoke.
Loyal and devoted, this graceful cat makes a great companion. Egyptian Maus love to play and pick up tricks pretty fast. These fur babies also shed minimally and will get by just fine with weekly grooming.
25. Snowshoe Cat
Snowshoes are an athletic white cat breed native to the United States. These cats are born all-white but develop distinct markings later. This breed sheds little and requires minimal grooming.
Snowshoes need plenty of attention, so they are better suited to families with plenty of time to spend with their fur buddies. These affable kitties do well with other pets and children, but be warned; they love to climb, and you will often find them lounging on whatever higher ground they can find.
24. American Curl
American Curls are a white cat breed with distinctive curled ears. This breed has a luxurious silky coat and comes in a variety of colors, including white. They can also be bicolor or tricolor.
These social cats are lively and curious cuties that make great companions. While American Curls may not necessarily be lap cats, they do enjoy spending time with their humans. You will need to keep this kitty properly exercised to avoid excessive weight gain.
23. European Shorthair
European Shorthairs are a popular cat breed with origins in Sweden. These kitties come in a wide range of colors, including white. They have beautiful, silky coats that shed very little and require minimal grooming.
These kitties are rated highly for their loving and easy-going nature, making them one of the most desired breeds of house cats. These affectionate and playful cats get on well with kids and other pets.
22. Munchkin Cat
Self-assured and outgoing, the Munchkin is a white cat breed with lots of confidence. These fur babies have distinctive short legs due to gene mutation. Their plush coats come in various colors, including white.
Despite their short legs, Munchkins are curious and adventurous kitties who love to hoard shiny objects. You will need to watch your jewelry around these adorable cats. They also love to play and will do well with children and other pets.
21. Balinese Cat
The regal Balinese is a white cat breed with point coloration similar to the Siamese breed. These beautiful cats have distinctive coloration and striking sapphire-blue eyes. Their bodies are lithe and athletic with fine-boned elegance.
Balinese cats are affectionate but demanding pets that tend to vocalize persistently. These kitties are also playful and curious. Balinese are known for their athletic grace and tend to be acrobatic.
20. Manx Cat
The Manx is one of the oldest cat breeds. This affectionate and social cat comes in various colors and patterns, including white. This breed is entirely tailless and has a muscular, athletic body.
Manx cats are energetic kitties known for their hunting prowess. Their short, dense coats shed quite a bit, so they do need regular grooming. These fur babies need attention and companionship, so you should not leave them alone for extended periods.
19. Birman
The Birman is a striking white cat breed. With their luxurious silky coat, vivid blue eyes, and contrasting “socks” on each paw, these cats are incredibly beautiful. Birmans are a large-sized breed that can be prone to obesity.
Birmans are not very social and bond better with individuals, so they are ideal if you live alone. They are playful and affectionate but also very independent. You will need to groom this kitty regularly to keep its coat pristine.
18. Sphynx Cat
The Sphynx is an energetic white cat breed that loves to clown around. With their distinctive hairless body and wrinkled skin, these kitties are easy to identify. The sleek and muscular body comes in different colors, including white.
Behind the dour expression lies an attention-loving playful kitty that is always putting on a show. These kitties are very loyal and will follow you around tirelessly. Sphynx cats are best suited to indoor living.
17. Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is known for its owlish appearance and distinctive folded ears. The dense coat of this white cat breed comes in various lengths and colors, including white.
Scottish Folds are charmers with an easy-going nature. They shed very little and require little grooming. These kitties are very affable and will get on well with kids and other pets. This breed is inactive and prone to obesity, so they need regular exercise.
16. Himalayan Cat
The Himalayan is a large white-haired breed. These cats are a cross between the Persian and Siamese breeds. They have adorable long coats, blue eyes, and distinctive point coloration.
Himalayans are friendly and social kitties that get on well with people. However, they can be moody at times. Due to their heavy-boned structure, obesity is a concern with these fur babies, so you will need to monitor their diet and exercise levels.
15. Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is a rare white cat breed with point coloration on the head and tail. These cats have dense, long coats and vivid almond-shaped eyes. Turkish Vans are very athletic and enjoy playing in the water since they are accomplished swimmers.
These cats need plenty of attention, so they are ideal if you have lots of time to spend with your feline. They are also very playful and friendly such that they can bond quickly with people.
14. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is an intelligent cat breed known for its distinctive large pointy ears and short coat. This white-haired breed comes in different colors. Devon Rex cats have short curled whiskers and long, athletic legs.
These energetic cats are known for being naughty, playful, and very social. They love to explore and jump around. You will often find them at the highest point they can find. Devons are very intelligent and pick up tricks easily.
13. Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is a white cat breed with a unique short tail hence its name. Native to Japan, these cats have soft silky medium coats that require minimal grooming.
Japanese Bobtails are very friendly and playful cats. They love to play fetch, and due to their high intelligence, they are pretty easy to train. Their affable nature makes them great with kids and other pets. These kitties tend to be vocal, especially when they want something.
12. Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair white cat breed is very similar to the Persian in appearance apart from having a shorter coat. These kitties are often referred to as the lazy man’s Persian since they look like Persian but do not require as much grooming.
Exotic shorthairs are calm and quiet cats. They get on well with other pets and children. However, these fur babies need companionship, and you will need to spend lots of time with them.
11. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is a large white cat breed with a distinctive appearance. The short curly coat comes in different colors, and these kitties have slender, muscular bodies. The wedge-shaped head and large ears are the unique features of this breed.
Cornish Rex cats are very playful and social. They are also very athletic and can get into mischief by exploring their surroundings. Despite their short coats, these kitties are not hypoallergenic.
10. Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair is a white cat breed closely related to the Siamese breed. These cats come in a variety of colors, including white. Orientals have muscular bodies with distinct triangular-shaped heads.
Social, affectionate, and vocal are qualities that make Orientals such great companions. These kitties are very active and intelligent. They love to be the center of attention but they can be moody at times. Orientals love toys and need plenty of them to keep them occupied.
9. Siberian Cat
Bushy tail, vivid eyes, and a luxurious coat are some of the distinct features of this adorable white cat breed. Siberians are athletic and known as accomplished jumpers with muscular and powerfully built limbs.
Siberians are a hypoallergenic breed recommended for people with allergies. Their social, playful, and affectionate nature makes for a great companion. Siberians should not be left alone for long periods. These cuties are fascinated by water and love playing with it.
8. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a large cat with an athletic and muscular body. This breed comes in a variety of colors, including white. These easy-going cats tend to be very healthy and low-maintenance cats.
American Shorthairs are very social and affectionate and make great family pets. They also get on well with other pets. These cats have strong hunting instincts, so don’t be surprised if they live some of their kills as presents for you to find.
7. Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest is a white cat breed suited to colder climates. Its dense double coat is water-shedding and provides ample insulation in cold conditions. These cats have large bodies and powerful build.
Norwegians are very playful and social, but they do not get on well with dogs. These kitties love to spend time with their humans. Norwegians are not very vocal and will make an ideal companion if you prefer a quiet pet.
6. Turkish Angora
Turkish Angoras are an ancient white cat breed with origins in the Ankara region. With long sinuous bodies, these lithe cats are very athletic and energetic. Their luxurious silky white coats are easy to groom and barely shed.
Turkish Angoras are loyal creatures who devote themselves fully to their owners. They may not get on well with other pets unless they are properly socialized. These playful kitties need attentive companions to keep them occupied and happy.
5. Ragdoll
Vivid blue eyes and point coloration are some of the unique features of this white cat breed. These cats are large, with muscular bodies and dense coats. Ragdolls require regular grooming to avoid matting, but they shed minimally.
Playful, docile, and happy, Ragdolls make great family pets. They love to be held and get on well with children and other pets. These kitties are easy to live with and would make an ideal pet if you are a first-time pet owner.
4. Maine Coon
This gentle giant is the largest domestic cat. Maine Coons can weigh up to 20 lbs or heavier, and they tend to be very energetic. This white cat breed has a distinctive dense silky coat that tends to get thicker in winter.
Despite their impressive size, Maine Coons are docile and affectionate kitties. They are very loyal and devoted even though they have an independent spirit. These kitties are low maintenance and do not require daily grooming.
3. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a large white cat breed. It has a stocky, muscular body and a dense short coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white. This breed matures slowly compared to other cat breeds.
British Shorthairs are an elegant and dignified breed that may not be as playful as other cats. However, they are docile and get on well with other pets and children. These kitties do not like to be picked up.
2. German Rex
The German Rex is an affectionate and low-shedding white cat breed. It has a unique silky, short coat that tends to curl. These kitties have a graceful, long-legged bearing that may seem dainty, but they are actually quite athletic.
If you want a kitty that loves to cuddle, the German Rex is happy to sit on your lap all day. However, they do need to get sufficient exercise to avoid obesity.
1. Neva Masquerade
This exotic beauty with origins in Russia is a playful and friendly kitty that makes a great family pet. The Neva Masquerade is a medium-sized breed with an adorable thick light-colored coat.
Neva Masquerades will not do well cooped up indoors all day. These energetic kitties require plenty of physical and mental stimulation. This white cat breed is sweet-natured and easy to train, making it a great choice for first-time pet owners.
Related Questions
Are All White Cats Albino?
No, not all white cats are albinos. Albino cats have a genetic mutation that causes them to lack melanin. White cats, on the other hand, have a dominant white gene that makes them white, but they do have some melanin. White cats can be distinguished from albino cats by their vivid colored eyes, which albino colors do not have.
Do White Kittens Stay White?
No, white kittens do not always stay white. Some cat breeds will start out as all-white kittens and gradually develop markings as they grow. Siamese cats, for instance, develop their point coloring as they mature. Some white kittens will stay white, but this will depend on the cat breed.
Are White Cats Lucky?
Yes, in many parts of the world, white cats signify luck. The association of white cats with luck can stem from the fact that they are typically rare. Since black cats have traditionally been associated with bad luck, it is natural for some people to consider white cats lucky.
