If you’ve ever held a cute little Persian kitten, you know the magic. That round face. The silky, long-haired coat. The way they melt into your arms like they’ve always belonged there. I raise Persian kittens in my home, and even after years of litters, I still grin when the nursery wakes up—tiny paws, polite chirps, and those bright, trusting eyes.
Below, I’m sharing the Persian kitten characteristics new families ask me about most: temperament, grooming, diet, health, etc. It’s a friendly primer from a breeder who collaborates with other CFA/TICA breeders across the U.S., plus a few anecdotes you only learn after hundreds of baths, countless comb-outs, and many happy send-offs.
The Look: How to Recognize a Persian Kitten
When families write to me—often with screenshots from listings—the first question is, “Is this really a Persian?” Here’s what I teach them to spot:
- Face & eyes: The classic brachycephalic profile (a soft, flat face) with big, round, expressive eyes—copper, blue, or green.
- Coat: Long, silky hair in a rainbow of colors and patterns. Yes, they’re truly long-haired cats.
- Build: A cobby, sturdy body with short legs. They waddle more than they sprint, especially as babies.
- Presence: Even as kittens, Persians carry themselves like tiny royalty. It’s a calm, serene confidence.
Temperament: Calm, Devoted, and People-Oriented
Persian kittens are gentle observers. While some breeds stage aerial acrobatics, my Persians prefer a feather wand on the rug, a sunbeam, or your lap. Their play style is intentional and sweet, not chaotic. They’re wonderfully affectionate and tend to bond deeply with their people.
Parents often ask, “Are they good with kids?” My rule: calm homes and gentle hands. When children are taught to be respectful, Persians respond with loyalty—quietly following from room to room, choosing a favorite person, and checking in for cuddles throughout the day.
Grooming: The Non-Negotiable (From a Breeder’s Toolkit)
Let’s talk care. If you fall in love with a Persian’s coat, you’re also committing to it. I send every new family home with a printed grooming guide because consistency is everything with long hair. Skip a few days and tangles turn to mats.
My Daily & Weekly Routine
- Daily comb-through (5–10 minutes): I use a stainless-steel comb first, then a gentle slicker. Focus on armpits, behind ears, and pantaloons—those are the “sneaky tangle zones.”
- Bath every 3–4 weeks: I introduce bath time early so kittens accept it. Quick blow-dry on low heat, with lots of praise and a warm towel waiting.
- Eye care: A soft, damp pad for tear tracks once a day. It’s fast and keeps skin comfortable.
Want the blow-by-blow? Here’s my step-by-step Persian Cat Grooming Guide with practical cat grooming tips.
Health: What Responsible Breeders Screen and Support
In my program—and with the U.S. breeders I work alongside in CFA/TICA—health is non-negotiable. Breeding cats are vetted and DNA-screened (including for PKD), and I’m transparent about results and pedigrees.
Common Persian Considerations
- Brachycephalic traits: Flat faces can mean mild respiratory sensitivity. Keep life calm and air fresh.
- PKD (polycystic kidney disease): Reputable programs screen breeding cats; I’m happy to discuss testing and lineage.
- Dental alignment: Shorter jaws can mean quirky bites. Your vet will advise if anything needs extra attention.
For general cat-care basics, I like the ASPCA’s cat care hub. If you’re researching breed standards or breeder referrals, the Cat Fanciers’ Association is a solid starting point.
Feeding: Practical Tips for Little Flat Faces
Feeding Persians is simple once you adjust for that adorable face. Shallow, wide dishes help a lot. I also use a small, non-slip mat because kittens push bowls around when they get excited.
- Food type: High-quality kitten food—real animal protein leads the label. I add wet food daily for hydration and coat shine (great for Persian cat health).
- Hydration: Water fountains are fantastic for encouraging frequent sipping, which supports kidneys.
- Portions: Track amounts; fluff can hide pudge. Slow and steady growth is best.
- Transition: I send a starter bag of their current food so tummies stay happy during the switch.
If you’re researching the best food for Persian cats, look for consistent protein quality, DHA for brain/eye development, and formulas that don’t upset sensitive stomachs.
Adoption Day: Choosing Your Persian Kitten With Confidence
Whether you adopt from me or another reputable breeder, here’s the simple checklist I share with visiting families:
- Bright, clear eyes with minimal discharge.
- Clean ears & nose and a soft, well-kept coat.
- Calm curiosity: Shy is fine, but the kitten should warm up with gentle interaction.
- Paper trail: Health records, test results, and a clear outline of care and return policies.
Ask questions. A good breeder welcomes them—pedigrees, socialization, grooming demos, even travel tips for getting home comfortably. I often print a “first-week plan” for new parents—feeding times, litter tips, and a quick comb map—so nothing is forgotten in the excitement.
Breeder Notes You Won’t Find in Generic Guides
- The printer pillow: At least one kitten every season decides my office printer is the perfect warm nap spot. I keep a folded towel there.
- The comb game: Turn grooming into play. I let babies “boop” the comb with a paw, then glide it once. Treat, praise, done.
- The quiet hour: Persians adore routine. A predictable “quiet hour” after meals helps them settle and prevents mat-causing tussles.
- Carrier training: Leave the carrier open with a cozy pad and a toy. They’ll nap in it by choice, so vet trips feel normal later.