Book excerpt: The numerous cat breeds are both varied and mysterious. Most have tails, some do not. Some have curled ears, some have huge ears. Some have long hair, some have short, and some have no hair at all. Some have hair, but it's really no more than a little peach fuzz. But there are more just than just physical differences between the breeds. Their personalities are just as vibrant, and each breed is not quite like the others. Some are chatty and friendly, others are aloof and circumspect. Some spend their days climbing door frames, others would rather lie about in the sun. These differences are fascinating to behold and helpful to all those interested in sharing their home with a cat. Found here are more than sixty of the most common breeds and hybrids from around the world.