Cats are bred in a vast array of sizes, builds, and personalities. Narrowing down your choice of cat breed by a preferred color can greatly help you find your future feline friend.
If you think you would like a gray cat, also known as blue or silver by breeders and formal cat show participants, this article will offer you an assortment of breeds to consider.
If you think you would like a gray cat, also known as blue or silver by breeders or formal cat show participants, consider the following breeds: Abyssinian Cats, American Bobtail Cats, American Shorthair Cats, Balinese Cats, Bengal Cats, British Shorthair Cats, Chartreux Cats, Devon Rex Cats, Egyptian Mau Cats, Korat Cats, Norwegian Forest Cats, Oriental Cats, Persian Cats, Russian Blue Cats, Scottish Fold Cats, Siamese Cats, Siberian Cats, or Sphynx Cats.
Gray Cat Breeds
The following breeds may be found in shades of gray, also known as blue or silver. Each has slightly different personalities and tendencies, so it is wise to research the breed thoroughly before committing to bringing home of one these cat breeds.
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian cat, described as “busy, active, agenda-driven and affectionate” by the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), is well known for being a cat who wants to be involved and “help” with whatever their humans are doing.
These cats have retained many physical characteristics of the “felis lybica”, an African wildcat that is a relative of the modern domestic cat.
The breed was strategically bred and polished in England in the 1800s, but their country of origin is somewhat a mystery. They resemble cats of ancient Egypt but may have ties to South East Asia and India.
Though their origin is foggy, there is no question about their intelligence. Abyssinian cats are particularly skilled at training humans. If you want to be owned by a cat, these regal and mysterious felines are an excellent choice.
American Bobtail
The American Bobtail has a unique look which many describe as wild because of its similarities to wild bobcats.
These cats are famous for their easygoing, loving natures and their bug control skills. According to the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), they are very intelligent, they are interactive with their families and they bond strongly with their owners.
American Shorthair
One of the most popular breeds of cat, the American Shorthair was one of the first five cat breeds recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) in 1906.
Their popularity goes back many generations when they won the hearts of humans by hunting rats on the Mayflower.
Described as a quiet and even-tempered working cat, there is no shortage of American Shorthairs available to make a part of your family. Due to the widespread popularity of these cats, they are available in the most diverse range of colors.
Balinese
Described as a “clown with a heart as big as a circus tent” by the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), the Balinese, a cousin of the siamese cat, are affectionate, alert, curious, and vocal. Despite being on the goofy side, these cats sport a very regal appearance that appeals to virtually everyone.
Bengal
The Bengal cat is considered to be one of the most gorgeous cats by many. Their distinct spotted coat gives them a wild look, appreciated by those who wish they could have a wild cat as a pet.
Not only is their appearance uncommon, but so is an aspect of their personality: they are fond of water. According to the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), some will even join their humans in the shower!
They have rather canine-like tendencies as well; they enjoy going for walks, may learn tricks, and like staying close to their humans.
Referred to as silver, gray Bengals have a silver base coat with dark gray and black marbled spots, reminiscent of a snow leopard.
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a medium to a large-sized cat, with a dense coat and large eyes that give them the cute and cuddly appearance of a teddy bear.
They are most commonly found in the color blue, which leads most people to associate the breed with that color, but they are also bred in other colorations.
Chartreux
Chartreux cats are only bred in blue and are known for their unique coat texture. A medium-sized cat, they are also known for their beautiful orange eyes which are shades of gold and copper. They become very attached to their families and are very muscular, notorious for being good mousers.
This breed is steeped in rich history. Originating in France, they are mentioned in French literature as early as the 16th century. There is a legend that these cats were brought to France by knights and provided companionship to monks, taking a vow of silence with them, since they are very quiet cats.
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a fun cat known for having rather dog-like qualities. They have a playful nature and can even be taught tricks! Known for being their human’s shadow, these cats are very loyal and loving.
Devons have a very unique appearance which also sets them apart from other cats. Their large ears and their curly, suede-like coats are unlike most other cat breeds. This silly appearance adds to their fun antics.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau sports a very unique spotted coat which gives them an uncommon and exotic appearance.
Known for prowling around their homes with a cheetah-like canter, these cats are extremely intelligent and passionately loyal. “They dote on their humans and expect to be an integral part of the family” and “they make wonderful companions”.
Korat
One of the seventeen cat breeds of Thailand that the culture considers to be “good luck”, the Korat is one of the oldest cat breeds, recorded in the literature between 1350-1767.
The Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) describes their coat as “silver-tipped blue, which gives it a shimmering shine. The color appears to absorb light, giving a “halo” effect”. This breed’s coat does not shed as heavily as some other breeds of cat, making them preferable to humans with sensitivities to cats.
Their endearing heart-shaped faces, glowing green eyes, and unique coats make them very attractive cats.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Described as active and sweet, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a large cat with a deceptively wild appearance who is actually more fond of the great indoors than the rugged terrain they look as though they belong in.
They can be lap cats, but according to the reputation that felines have built for themselves, everything is done on their terms.
Known as the “Skogkatt” in their native land of Norway, they have a durable and water-resistant coat that their ancestors used to stay warm in Scandinavia’s harshly cold winters.
This increases their grooming needs, but they are certainly manageable to care for. These cats are impressively beautiful in blue coats.
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental cat was bred to “explore all the possibilities of color and pattern”, making them available in over one hundred fifty colors!
The breed is not only rich in color possibilities but also in personality. They love being actively involved in their chosen human lives by involving themselves in whatever activity their humans are doing. These cats will even greet their owners at the door when they return home!
Persian
The Persian cat is mentioned in hieroglyphics as early as 1684. Their flat faces and luxurious coats give them an endearing appearance that has made them one of the most popular cat breeds.
Known to be “creatures of habit”, these cats prefer quieter homes. Their voices are described as “melodious” and “pleasant”. They not only communicate vocally but also with their expressive eyes. Their companionship is described as “close and enduring”.
Russian Blue
The Russian Blue is famous for its beautiful sparkling silver gray coats. Paired with radiant green eyes, their appearance is very striking.
A gentle, graceful, playful, and quiet cat that is wary of strangers, they do well in a variety of families.
Their grooming needs are very low maintenance, making them ideal for new cat parents who are learning the ropes of cat ownership.
Scottish Fold
One of the most iconic cats, the Scottish Fold has a very endearing face, reminiscent of an owl with its striking golden eyes. A relatively new breed, they originated from barn cats in the 1960s.
Scottish Fold kittens are all born with straight ears. Between three to four weeks their ears may, or may not, fold.
Breeders cannot know if they are pet or show quality kittens until they are twelve weeks old, as only kittens with folded ears qualify to compete in cat shows.
Due to the uncertainty of kittens’ quality, their price may vary greatly, hence folded ear variety is difficult to obtain.
Should you decide to pursue adding a fold to your family, prepare to be patient as you find your ideal cat.
Siamese
Hailing from Thailand, the aristocratic Siamese began their journey around the world capturing the hearts of many in the 1800s.
These cats look like “living art”; their physique looks almost hand-sculpted, and their blue, almond-shaped eyes are magically beautiful, most especially when paired with a blue coat.
Not only are these regal felines physically beautiful, but they have beautiful hearts and personalities too.
They absolutely love their humans and are very cuddly cats. They are also curious and intelligent, making them a joy to add to the family.
Siberian Cat
The Siberian is a classically cute cat with a sweet, endearing face. Mentioned in Russian fairytales and children’s books, they have been a popular pet for generations in Russia.
Known for their usefulness as capable and fearless hunters on farms, these cats are personable and love being with humans.
These cats are very handsome in blue coats, and their already impressive powerful, athletic appearance is even more eye-catching because of their fluffy manes and “britches”, and their unique eyes which vary from shades of blue to green, or gold.
Relatively new to the United States, these cats did not set paws on American soil until the 1990s.
Sphynx Cat
The Sphynx cat is hairless, though there are a few of these cats that may have some hair. These “naked” kitties made the gray cat breed list because their skin may be gray-colored, though they tend to be mostly pink, with gray patches similarly patterned to the coat of cows.
Their skin has a “buttery” soft texture and may have peach fuzz, making them velvety soft, which many people like!
These cats were unintentionally created at first; in 1966, a hairless kitten was born randomly in Canada. This kitten, and other hairless kittens born at random throughout the world, contributed to this breed.
Though their appearance may be considered an acquired taste, this breed is generally very healthy, making them an ideal choice for potential cat parents who want a longer-lived kitty companion.
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Conclusion
As you can see, there is a broad selection of gray cat breeds; there is a gray cat to suit virtually anyone’s pet preferences.
If you choose to adopt one of the cats who need a home, PetFinder allows you to search for them.
Should you decide to use a breeder to add a kitten to your family, seek a responsible and ethical breeder.
A good place to find reputable breeders in the Cat Fancier’s Association Find A Breeder tool.
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