Grumpy cats are completely opposite from the tag that they have. As it's said, don’t judge a book by its cover; grumpy cats also have quite a warm personality underneath. 

Let’s explore different grumpy cat breeds!

What breed is a grumpy cat?

Cats with short skull bones tend to have flat faces, which gives them grumpy appearances. These short bones alter the anatomy of the feline creatures.  The facial features of the cats and their expressions make them look as if they are annoyed. 

However, that has nothing to do with its personality traits. The outcome of the genetic mutations makes the faces of these cats flatter. Cat lovers find these feline pals irresistibly cute.  

Go through the sections below to discover the unique characteristics and personalities of the grumpy cats, and get ready to make them your favorite furball. 

8 Adorable Yet Grumpy Cat Breeds 

Below is the list of grumpy cat breeds known for their striking good appearance and unique characteristics. 

Persian Cat

Persian cats are popular for their grumpy facial expressions. However, they are the most gentle, loving, patient, and affectionate felines you will come across. Grumpy cat Persian can, at times, remain aloof and reserved. They are generally serene and are not very vocal. 

Their smooshed faces will make you fall in love with them. They can be standoffish with strangers. Once they bond with you, they are the most easy-going and charming creatures. 

Pallas's Cat

Pallas's is another cat known for their mean-spirited look. It is known as the original ‘grumpy cat’. Their attitude and large owl-like eyes can be intimidating. It is their flat face that makes them appear cantankerous. Moreover, they live in solitary. They prefer to live in their own corner rather than socializing. Pallas's cats are shrewd creatures. They tend to be aggressive while hunting. 

British Longhair Cat

British Longhair is also among the cat breeds with grumpy appearance. They actually look like a grumpy plush teddy bear. However, their nature is the opposite. They are known for their calm demeanor. They are large with well-muscled bodies. It is their tolerant, gentle, and playful nature that makes them different from other cat breeds. 

British Longhairs enjoy regular play and petting sessions. They love human companionship and are known to be sociable. They show tenderness and patience to all age groups.  

Himalayan

Himalayan cats also have a grumpy appearance. It is probably their Persian lineage, from where they have got their flat face. However, they are popular for being calm and easy-going. They are essentially a color-printed Persian. However, The International Cat Association (TICA) identifies Himalayan cat breeds as different from the Persian. 

On the other hand, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) recognises Himalayan as a color division of the Persian cat breed. This cat breed is adaptable, friendly, and extremely good with kids. 

Scottish Fold Cat

Another sour-faced cat breed is the Scottish Fold. They are known for being stubborn and can show signs of depression when kept isolated. They absolutely dislike loneliness and can become destructive to some extent if kept alone for too long. Furthermore, the Scottish Fold is a distinctive breed that is identified by a natural dominant gene mutation related to osteochondrodysplasia. 

This genetic anomaly in their body affects their cartilage. If taken proper care, you will fall in love with their sweet nature. Besides, they are extremely playful and outgoing. 

Exotic Shorthair Cat

Exotic Shorthair is also a popular flat-faced cat breed. They have a round and broad head, which is large in proportion to their body. It is their large and round eyes that make them look intimidating. This cat breed is a mix of American Shorthair and Persian. Do not make the mistake of confusing these cats with the Cantankerous cat breed. 

They are known to have a mellow temperament, and they are extremely affectionate and people-oriented. These feline pals acclimate well to apartment living. 

Burmese Cat

Burmese is another sour-faced cat breed who thrives on interaction and attention. These feline pals enjoy exploring and are highly active. However, they can be quite dominant at times. Furthermore, they can get depressed if kept alone for long periods. These cat breeds are not inherently aggressive. 

However, they can behave in an aggressive manner if they feel threatened. Behind their grumpy face, they have a loyal, playful, and affectionate nature. Burmese can easily adapt to changes. 

Selkirk Rex Cat

You will get the name Selkirk Rex in the list of grumpy-looking cats. However, their appearance can be misleading as they are calm and gentle. Besides, they are highly sociable and playful in nature. Their distinctive curly coat and affectionate personality make them endearing and pleasant to cuddle. 

Selkirk Rex is known to have an alert and active personality. These feline pals make great companions for all people of different age groups and lifestyles.  

Health Problems Faced by Flat-Faced Cats

It is very important to take good care of the flat-faced cats. Their anatomy makes them vulnerable to specific health issues. 

• Breathing Problems: Breathing issues are also common in flat-faced cat breeds. These feline pals are susceptible to contracting brachycephalic airway syndrome. Some breeds have extremely tiny nostrils, which makes it difficult for them to breathe especially when they have any kind of allergies or upper respiratory infections. The brachycephalic cats can have a hypoplastic trachea. Some flat-faced cat breeds are seen to have an extended soft palate which stretches to the back of their throat. This can partially block the opening of the trachea.
• Dental Malocclusion: Flat-faced cat breeds tend to suffer due to their altered skull shape. The misalignment of teeth in some breeds hampers their oral structure, causing much pain. Grumpy cats also suffer from mandibular bites, making it difficult for the feline pals to eat. 
• Dermatitis: The altered shape of the skull can result in excessive tear flow from the eyes of the grumpy kitty. As most flat-faced cats have extra skin folds, the excessive moisture from the eyes can cause dermatitis. 

Furthermore, this cat breed is prone to respiratory infections and ocular infections. 

Common Misconceptions About Grumpy Cat Breeds

The most common misconception that surrounds the grumpy-looking cat breed is their tendency to exhibit aggressive behavior. However, that is not the case. Most of the grumpy-looking cats have a calm demeanor. 

It is said that the grumpy cat breeds suffer from several physical and hereditary conditions frequently. Though the statement is partly true. They often undergo many health-related complications. However, with proper care and grooming, you can keep your feline pal away from chronic ailments. 

Takeaway

Cats with shorter skull bones tend to have a pushed-in or smooshed face and nose, giving them a grumpy appearance. Their appearance can be misleading as they mostly have a soft and calm nature. However, their oddly proportioned body can cause a lot of health issues. Hence, it is important to go for periodic veterinary visits if you choose to keep them as pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many grumpy or flat-faced cat breeds. They are also known as brachycephalic breeds and they have become increasingly popular these days. It is not only their adorable appearance but also their affectionate and playful nature that makes them desirable. 

Different flat-faced cat breeds have different origins. For instance, Tardar Sauce was believed to have a three-way mix of Ragdoll, Snowshoe, and Persian. The Burmese cat originated from Burma. It is believed to have its origin near the Thai-Burma border. 

Yes, the flat-faced cats have shorter skull bones, which results in their pushed-in face. They tend to have expressions like humans. Their round face, large eyes, and short nose give them a sullen look. Regarding the marking, there are no specific markings associated with the grumpy cat’s breed. 

It is the grumpy yet adorable appearance of the flat-faced cats that made them popular. In 1950, breeders went ahead with selective breeding to get the ‘peke-faced’ look in cats. With time, the squashed face has become a breed standard. 

No, there is no specific behavior that is unique to the grumpy cat breeds. Different cat breeds have different behavioral traits. For instance, Persian cats are known to be gentle, patient and playful. On the other hand, Scottish Fold are sensitive to change and can become aggressive if they are kept with new pets.

Yes, grumpy-faced cats can come in different colors within the same breed. For instance, Scottish Fold comes in various coat colors like black, cream, white, etc. Burmese cats come in sable, lilac, and platinum color. 

Reference Links:

https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/flat-faced-cat-breeds

https://www.alwayspets.com/s/pallas-cat-grumpy-cat-breed-1f94126891ed4254

https://cats.com/flat-faced-cat-breeds