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Here is the bible of pure cat breeds--spanning eight millennia and the entire globe--from one of the world's best known authorities.

From neolithic farm cats to ancient Egypt's feline deities to modern house pets, and from the first cat show in 1598 (with prizes for the best ratter and the best mouser) to the high-tone competitive exhibitions that began in the Victorian era, the domestication of the African wild cat has produced a superb, intriguing spectrum of creatures. With the wit, style, and erudition that made international bestsellers of his Catwatching and Catlore, Desmond Morris here details all 100 breeds: both the long-established and the exotic newcomers, from tough European shorthairs to delicate, slender, hot-country Orientals. Cat Breeds of the World brims with authoritative and entertaining information on each breed's history, myths, and legends (who knew there were nine possible explanations of the Persian Cat's origins?); its appearance, special features, and personality; and lists of color forms and breed clubs. Supplementary chapters cover experimental--often controversial--breeds, coat colors and patterns, feline anatomy, terminology, and cat societies. Illustrated with full-color photographs by leading cat photographers, this is the definitive reference for cat professionals and owners of pedigree felines, and a magnificent gift for every last cat addict.
Customer Review: IF THE AUTHOR IS DESMOND MORRIS, ITS A GREAT BOOK!
I have almost all books by Desmond Morris in regard to cats and dogs in my library and would not part with any of them. This one is no exception and makes a great coffee table book. The information found here is just as implied - info on a vast variety of cats from around the world. There are many other similar books available but few as complete. For those contemplating the purchase of a cat and not sure what type is right for you, this book is a terrific place to start. The book provides a history of various breeds of cats and the characteristics of each individual breed. Any lover of the feline world will not want to miss this beautiful, informative book.
Customer Review: Cat Breeds of the World : A Complete Illustrated Encyclopedi
A wonderful and resourseful book with absolutely glorious pictures. Desmond Morris has given the most detailed history of our rare breed, the Turkish Van cat, that I have found anywhere. A joy to curl up with.


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