Cats, like us, have varying personalities. Some are wild and crazy. Some are lovers. Some are talkative. Some are very shy except with those they know and trust. Unfortunately, some are also down right mean. Again, you need to look at your lifestyle and your own personality to find the one that is right for you.
PLEASE. Don't just go and grab the first cat that looks pretty or meows at you. It's a temptation, but not always a good one. Most shelters or pet shops (and I recommend you research the pet shop thoroughly to find out where they get their pets before giving them money for one) have rooms where you can take a pet and spend a little bit of time with them. This lets you get a bit of an idea about how well you like the cat and the cat likes you. Spend some time with them - more than 5 minutes. You would not pick a mate after knowing them for 5 minutes and expect a successful relationship. If you've had cats before, remember, just because Felix looks like your old cat Tigger, doesn't mean he will be.
Male or Female? There are mixed opinions on which gender is better. I've had success with each. Some say males are more affectionate. Some say females are gentler. Some say males bite more. Some say males spray more and are more territorial. Some say females are more affectionate and more nurturing. Honestly, I think they are all opinions since I've seen and heard of many exceptions to these stereo-types. I had a female that ruled the roost. My male doesn't spray (and I will write more about spraying and litterbox use in a later blog). Each cat I had would nip when over stimulated or petted roughly. None of these bites ever broke the skin, but some still caused bruises. I think it again goes back to simply getting to know a cat before you adopt it.
Breed? I've never owned a purebred cat. I can tell you that a purebred Persian will require more work. They need groomed regularly to keep mats from developing in their fur and to prevent hairballs. Because of their pushed in faces, they are more likely to have respiratory problems. Maine Coones are said to be very affectionate, very talkative cats. They are usually larger in size than your average cat. Siamese and Abyssinians tend to be more active and Siamese tend to be VERY vocal.
I've had excellent experiences with your standard American short-hair, mixed breeds. They tend to be known by their markings. I will say that over time, I have developed suspicions about personalities tied to these markings. As I volunteer at my local shelter, I will be doing some research to see if my theories prove true. But, I will share them here. Tuxedos - these are typically black with white underbellies and paws (like a tuxedo) - these cats tend to be more outgoing and like to control their habitat. They are fun, affectionate, playful cats. Fair warning, the one I had was called Mischief and I think that may be true of most tuxedos. Tortoise shells - their markings are mottled browns, blacks, tans and sometimes grays. These seem to be affectionate, but more shy cats. They may hide under a bed when company comes over, but be near you, loving and purring when their home is not disrupted by guests. Tabbies/Tiger-striped - again typically affectionate, but more likely to want that affection on their own terms not necessarily yours or anyone else's. These are all theories and I'd love feedback if your experiences support or contradict them. There are also always exceptions.
Purebred or mixed breed. If you select a purebred cat, please go through a reputable breeder. However, you will typically be assigned a kitten based on your gender preference as opposed to being able to select the specific kitten you want. When working with a breeder, it is important to see the breeding pair if possible and get to know about their personalities as many times the kittens will mirror their personalities to an extent. It is also important to ask about genetic disorders common to the blood line or breed. As always, do your research. Don't be afraid to question the breeder. If you've chosen a purebred cat, you are spending quite a bit of money. Also be aware that the kittens can be classified as pet quality vs. show quality. You will pay more for show quality as these meet criteria for that breed and can be shown at cat shows. If you aren't planning on going the show route, pet quality should be sufficient (and slightly cheaper).
Personally, I think the mixed breeds make wonderful pets. They can be found at your local shelter, typically are already spayed/neutered and have at least their first series of vaccinations. The adoption cost is less than these services would typically be.
Cat or kitten? Again, it depends on you and your lifestyle. A kitten has not fully developed its personality yet in most cases. They will be very active, almost hyper-active in some cases. They will find a way to get into trouble. You, as their owner, will play a LARGE part in the final formation of their personality. A cat, especially over three years is beginning to settle. Its personality is formed. Basically, what you see is what you get. I'll write more about the training, care and ownership of each later.
My key point here again is do your research, spend some time with the cat you think you want - get to know them, let them get to know you. I don't believe you will regret a carefully thought out decision, but I do believe you could come to regret an impulse adoption/purchase.
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