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Persian: temperament, health and care
Persian: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium, about 3.5–7 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–17 years |
| Exercise | Low |
| Grooming | Very high: daily brushing and eye cleaning |
Temperament and who it suits
Quiet, docile and sweet; enjoys calm surroundings.
Often suits: owners who can commit to daily grooming.
Flat faces mean more health problems, so choose breeders who health-test.
Health problems to know about
- Polycystic kidney disease (test available)
- Breathing problems in flat-faced types
- Eye problems
- Dental crowding
- HCM
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Persian
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Persian live?
A Persian typically lives 12–17 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Persian need?
Low.
What health problems are common in a Persian?
Common concerns include polycystic kidney disease (test available), breathing problems in flat-faced types, eye problems, dental crowding and HCM. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Persian need?
Very high: daily brushing and eye cleaning.
Who does a Persian suit?
It often suits owners who can commit to daily grooming. Flat faces mean more health problems, so choose breeders who health-test.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.