Advertisement
5 of 10
Colourpoint Shorthair
Colourpoint Shorthair
GETTY IMAGES

This is considered a “man-made” breed because it was developed by crossing a Siamese with a red tabby American Shorthair in the mid-1900s. Like the Siamese, its body is a light colour, but the “points” on its ears, face, tail and paws can come in any of 16 different colours. This breed sheds very little, and for that reason, it is often recommended as a good pet for people with cat allergies. It is also considered one of the most affectionate cat breeds. Like the Siamese, it’s very vocal, intelligent, and playful. A related breed, the Oriental Shorthair – a cross between a Siamese, an American Shorthair, and an Abyssinian – also tends to produce less of an allergic response.