Designed for the cat enthusiast, this volume provides a photographic catalogue of over 100 different breeds and varieties. The book explores the distinctive characteristics of each breed and provides readers with information and advice on cat care, breeding, showing and behaviour. A general chapter on cat evolution, their basic behaviour, anatomy, intelligence and ability to communicate with each other and their owners serves as an introduction to the main part of the book, which is devoted to individual breeds. This unique photographic guide covers both longhaired and shorthaired varieties in full colour; each specially commissioned photograph has been chosen by experts to represent the breed illustrating the individual markings, colouring and distinctive physical characteristics. Further chapters cover other aspects of cat ownership with practical advice. A chapter entitled Keeping Your Cat covers all the everyday occurences of bringing up your cat; washing him; travelling; common ailments; first aid; common household hazards and when to call your vet. A section on breeding takes you from the sexual behaviour of your cat through pregnancy to kitten development; fostering; worming and neutering. Finally, a section on showing tells you how the shows are organized, explains the points system and shows you how to prepare for the big day.