The Peke-Faced Cat is a variety of Persian cat with an extremely flat face, resembling a Pekingese dog. These cats have the same long, luxurious coat and gentle personality as other Persians, but with a more extreme facial structure that requires special care and attention.
In this comprehensive breed guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about the Peke-Faced Cat, including breed characteristics, health considerations, care requirements, training tips, grooming needs, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for the breed, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Peke-Faced Cat Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Peke-Faced Cat:
- Food: Premium Cat Food for Flat-Faced Cats - AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition
- Food Bowl: Shallow Food Bowl - Specifically designed for flat-faced cats
- Grooming Tools: Long-Hair Cat Brush - Daily brushing to prevent matting
- Eye Care: Eye Wipes for Tear Stains - Daily cleaning to prevent staining
- Nose Care: Gentle Nose Wipes - Regular cleaning of facial folds
- Litter Box: Large Litter Box - Appropriate size, easy access
About Peke-Faced Cats
The Peke-Faced Cat is a variety of Persian cat with an extremely flat face, resembling a Pekingese dog (hence the name "Peke-Faced"). These cats have the same long, luxurious coat and gentle personality as other Persians, but with a more extreme facial structure that requires special care and attention. The Peke-Faced Cat is not a separate breed but rather a type of Persian cat with specific facial characteristics.
Breed History and Origin
The Peke-Faced Cat variety emerged in the 1930s when a spontaneous mutation occurred in Persian cats, creating an extremely flat face. This variety was initially controversial, but some breeders worked to develop and stabilize this trait. The Peke-Faced Cat shares the same history as the Persian breed, which has been developed over many centuries.
Today, the Peke-Faced Cat is recognized as a variety of Persian by some cat registries, though it's important to note that this extreme facial structure can lead to health issues. Potential owners should be aware of the special care requirements and potential health concerns associated with this variety.
The extreme flat face of the Peke-Faced Cat can cause breathing difficulties, eye problems, and dental issues, so these cats require dedicated owners who are committed to providing specialized care.
Physical Characteristics
Peke-Faced Cats are medium-sized cats, typically weighing 7-12 pounds, with a stocky, cobby build. Their most distinctive feature is their extremely flat face, with a very short nose and large, round eyes. The face is so flat that it appears almost pushed in, similar to a Pekingese dog.
The breed has a long, luxurious coat that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The coat requires daily grooming to prevent matting and maintain its appearance. Peke-Faced Cats have small ears set low on the head, large round eyes, and a short, flat nose.
The extreme facial structure of the Peke-Faced Cat can cause the eyes to protrude slightly, and the very short nose can lead to breathing difficulties. Their facial folds can also trap moisture and debris, requiring regular cleaning.
Personality and Temperament
Peke-Faced Cats share the same gentle, calm, and affectionate personality as other Persians. They are known for their sweet, quiet nature and their love of lounging and being pampered. These cats form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their owners, but they are not overly demanding of attention.
These cats are typically good with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets for calm households. They are known for their pleasant, soft voices and are not typically very vocal. Peke-Faced Cats enjoy a quiet, peaceful environment and may become stressed in overly chaotic situations.
Their calm nature makes them well-suited for apartment living and households with less activity. They are not particularly active cats and prefer lounging and being groomed to running and playing.
Peke-Faced Cat Health Issues
Common Health Considerations
The Peke-Faced Cat has an average lifespan of 10-15 years, which is typical for a Persian variety. However, the extreme flat face of the Peke-Faced Cat can lead to several health issues that potential owners should be aware of.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
The extreme flat face of the Peke-Faced Cat can cause brachycephalic airway syndrome, which includes narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate, and other breathing difficulties. These cats may snore, have difficulty breathing, especially in hot weather, and may be more prone to respiratory infections.
Eye Problems
The flat face can cause the eyes to protrude, making them more susceptible to injury and irritation. Peke-Faced Cats are prone to excessive tearing, which can lead to tear staining and skin irritation. They may also be more prone to eye infections and corneal ulcers.
Dental Issues
The flat face can cause dental misalignment and crowding, leading to dental issues. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining oral health.
Skin Fold Dermatitis
The facial folds can trap moisture and debris, leading to skin irritation and infection. Regular cleaning of facial folds is essential to prevent skin fold dermatitis.
Heat Sensitivity
Due to their breathing difficulties, Peke-Faced Cats are more sensitive to heat and may have difficulty regulating their body temperature. They should be kept in cool, well-ventilated environments.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Like many Persians, Peke-Faced Cats can be prone to polycystic kidney disease, a genetic condition that causes kidney cysts. Responsible breeders screen for this condition, and potential owners should ask about PKD testing when selecting a breeder.
While individual cats may vary, it's important to be aware of potential health issues that can affect Peke-Faced Cats. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and specialized care are essential for keeping these cats healthy throughout their life. Pet insurance may be a particularly good investment for Peke-Faced Cat owners.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Cat Food | High-quality protein, AAFCO-compliant, complete nutrition, easy to eat | Daily nutrition, health maintenance | Appropriate for flat-faced cats |
| Shallow Food Bowl | Shallow design, easy access for flat faces | Feeding, water | Designed for brachycephalic cats |
| Grooming Brush | Long-hair brush, prevents matting | Coat maintenance, reducing shedding | Appropriate for long coats |
| Eye Wipes | Gentle, safe for daily use, prevents tear stains | Eye care, preventing staining | Safe for sensitive eyes |
| Nose Wipes | Gentle cleaning of facial folds | Preventing skin fold dermatitis | Safe for sensitive skin |
What To Feed a Peke-Faced Cat
Nutrition Basics
Feeding commercial cat food that's compliant with the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards is essential for ensuring your Peke-Faced Cat receives complete and balanced nutrition. Given their flat face and potential breathing difficulties, Peke-Faced Cats benefit from easily digestible, high-quality diets.
Look for cat foods that list a high-quality animal protein (such as chicken, turkey, or fish) as the first ingredient. Both dry and wet food can be appropriate, though wet food may be easier for flat-faced cats to eat. Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, or low-quality protein sources.
Given their potential for dental issues, dental care foods or treats may be beneficial. Hairball control formulas may also be helpful due to their long coats. Portion control is important to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties.
Key Features: High-quality protein, AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced, easy to eat, appropriate for flat-faced cats, portion control, dental care support
View Premium Cat Food on Amazon
How Much Should You Feed a Peke-Faced Cat?
The recommended caloric intake for Peke-Faced Cats varies based on their age, activity level, metabolism, and whether they are spayed or neutered. Adult Peke-Faced Cats typically need between 200-300 calories per day, though this can vary significantly based on individual needs.
The best way to determine the right amount is to consult with your veterinarian, who can calculate the appropriate portion based on your cat's specific needs. Additionally, follow the feeding guidelines on your cat food package as a starting point, and adjust based on your cat's body condition.
Monitor your Peke-Faced Cat's weight regularly, as obesity can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Adjust food portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Use shallow bowls that are easy for flat-faced cats to access.
Behavior and Training Tips for Peke-Faced Cats
Peke-Faced Cat Personality and Temperament
Peke-Faced Cats share the same gentle, calm, and affectionate personality as other Persians. They are known for their sweet, quiet nature and their love of lounging and being pampered. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their owners, but they are not overly demanding of attention.
Their calm nature makes them excellent candidates for basic training, though they may not be as interested in active play or tricks as more energetic breeds. They respond well to gentle, positive reinforcement training methods.
Peke-Faced Cat Training
Training a Peke-Faced Cat is typically straightforward due to their gentle, eager-to-please nature. These cats respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, including treat rewards.
Key training areas for Peke-Faced Cats include:
- Litter box training: Usually straightforward, as Peke-Faced Cats are naturally clean
- Scratching post training: Redirect scratching to appropriate surfaces
- Basic commands: Teach sit and stay using positive reinforcement
- Grooming tolerance: Train to tolerate daily grooming and facial cleaning
Key Features: Positive reinforcement, gentle training, grooming tolerance, early socialization
View Training Treats on Amazon
Socialization
Early socialization is crucial for Peke-Faced Cats to develop into well-adjusted adults. Expose kittens to various people, sounds, and experiences in a positive way. Well-socialized Peke-Faced Cats are typically calm, friendly, and adaptable to new situations.
Peke-Faced Cat Grooming Guide
Skin Care
Peke-Faced Cats have relatively low-maintenance skin care needs, but their facial folds require special attention. Regular bathing is usually not necessary unless your cat gets into something messy, as they are excellent self-groomers. However, if you do bathe your Peke-Faced Cat, use a gentle cat shampoo formulated for longhaired cats.
Monitor your cat's skin, especially in facial folds, for any signs of irritation, infection, or dermatitis. Regular cleaning of facial folds is essential to prevent skin fold dermatitis.
Key Features: Minimal bathing needed, gentle shampoo when required, regular facial fold cleaning, skin monitoring
Coat Care
The Peke-Faced Cat's long, luxurious coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Brush your Peke-Faced Cat daily with a slicker brush or comb to remove loose hair and maintain the coat's appearance. The long, thick coat can mat easily, especially in areas where the cat can't reach.
Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting, which can be painful and lead to skin issues. It also provides an opportunity to check for any skin issues, parasites, or abnormalities, and helps reduce hairball formation. During shedding seasons, you may need to brush more frequently.
Key Features: Daily brushing, slicker brush for long coats, prevents matting, reduces shedding and hairballs
Facial Care
Due to their extreme flat face, Peke-Faced Cats require daily facial care. Clean the eyes daily with gentle eye wipes to remove tear stains and prevent irritation. Clean the facial folds regularly to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Use gentle, cat-safe products designed for sensitive areas.
Key Features: Daily eye cleaning, facial fold cleaning, gentle products, prevents staining and infection
View Eye Care Products on Amazon
Nail Care
Regular nail trimming is important for Peke-Faced Cats, especially if they are indoor cats. Trim nails every 2-3 weeks using cat-specific nail clippers. If your cat is resistant to nail trimming, start slowly and use positive reinforcement.
Dental Care
Given the breed's potential for dental issues, regular dental care is essential. Brush your Peke-Faced Cat's teeth several times per week using a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental treats and toys can also help maintain oral health between brushings.
View Dental Care Products on Amazon
Exercise and Enrichment for Peke-Faced Cats
Exercise Needs
Peke-Faced Cats are not particularly active and have low exercise needs. They prefer lounging and being pampered to running and playing. However, they still benefit from gentle play sessions to maintain muscle tone and prevent obesity.
Interactive play sessions should be gentle and low-intensity. They enjoy gentle play with wand toys, soft toys, and puzzle feeders. Avoid overly strenuous exercise that could cause breathing difficulties. Without adequate exercise and stimulation, Peke-Faced Cats may become bored or gain weight, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties.
Key Features: Gentle, low-intensity play, interactive toys, puzzle feeders, moderate exercise
View Gentle Cat Toys on Amazon
Environmental Enrichment
Create an enriching environment for your Peke-Faced Cat by providing:
- Comfortable perches and lounging areas
- Window access for bird watching
- Soft, comfortable beds
- Puzzle feeders for mealtime enrichment
- Quiet areas for rest and relaxation
- Cool, well-ventilated spaces (important for breathing)
Considerations for Pet Parents
Family Compatibility
Peke-Faced Cats can make excellent family pets for calm households with older children and other gentle pets. Their gentle, calm nature makes them good companions for quieter families. They typically get along well with children who understand how to interact with cats respectfully, and they usually adapt well to other pets, especially if introduced properly and socialized from a young age.
However, their special care requirements and potential health issues mean they may not be suitable for all families. They require dedicated owners who are committed to providing specialized care, including daily grooming and facial cleaning.
Living Environment
Peke-Faced Cats adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses, as long as they have a quiet, peaceful environment. They are indoor cats by nature and should be kept indoors for their safety. They should be kept in cool, well-ventilated environments, as they are sensitive to heat due to their breathing difficulties.
These cats appreciate having their own space and may become stressed in overly chaotic environments. Provide quiet areas where your Peke-Faced Cat can retreat when needed, while also ensuring they have comfortable lounging areas and opportunities for gentle activity.
Time Commitment
Peke-Faced Cats require a significant time commitment from their owners. They need daily grooming (brushing and facial cleaning), regular veterinary care, and specialized attention to their health needs. Their long coat requires daily brushing, and their facial folds require daily cleaning. Additionally, their potential health issues mean they may require more frequent veterinary visits than other cats.
Final Verdict
The Peke-Faced Cat is a unique variety of Persian that combines a distinctive appearance with a gentle, calm personality. With their extremely flat faces, long luxurious coats, and sweet nature, Peke-Faced Cats make excellent companions for calm households that can provide specialized care and attention.
With proper care including a high-quality, easily digestible diet (AAFCO-compliant food) with portion control, daily grooming appropriate for their long coat (brushing and facial cleaning), gentle exercise and mental stimulation, early socialization and training, regular veterinary care, and special attention to their breathing and facial care needs, your Peke-Faced Cat can live a healthy and happy life for many years.
Quality supplies are an investment in your Peke-Faced Cat's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for flat-faced cats, and designed to meet their specific needs for grooming, facial care, and comfort. With proper care and attention, your Peke-Faced Cat will be a delightful, gentle companion that brings joy to your home.
Use this breed guide as a reference when considering or caring for a Peke-Faced Cat, and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your cat's specific needs or notice any signs of health issues. The Peke-Faced Cat's combination of distinctive appearance and gentle personality makes them a truly special variety for those who appreciate their unique looks and are committed to providing the specialized care they require.