Last updated Apr 14, 2023
Garfield is a fictional character and one of the most well-known and popular cats in America. The big question on everyone’s mind is what type of cat is Garfield the cartoon feline?
There are several orange cat breeds that Garfield may or may not be mistaken for. In this article, we will look at seven Garfield cat breeds and what makes them so lovable.
What Kind Of Cat Is Garfield?
Jim Davis, the creator of Garfield, has been asked what breed this fictional feline is, and he has said that Garfield is a composite of different kinds of breeds.
However, if we wanted to narrow it down, based on his personality, facial features, and striped ginger fur, Garfield is possibly an orange tabby Persian cat or Exotic Shorthair cat (which is the Persian cat’s shorthaired cousin).
Both breeds have laid-back personalities, and love to lay around and enjoy the company of their humans. Taking a look at the breeds’ body types (which are similar), the Persian and Exotic Shorthair have short yet large body frames (referred to as cobby) with a fluffy tail and an adorable, squishy round face.
What Breed of Cats Look Like Garfield?
Garfield is an orange tabby cat, but tabby patterns can vary somewhat. Here are the patterns and coat types you might see in an orange tabby cat:
- Mackerel tabby is very common and includes stripes along the chest, body, tail and legs of the cat.
- Classic tabby is also common and produces an almost tie-dyed look with bold swirls and large blotches.
- Spotted tabby has spots or blotches of any size on their coats. These can be entirely random or in straight lines.
- Ticked tabby has faint light and dark alternating bands; sometimes the pattern is not obvious, but it can be seen if you look closely. Ticked fur may have a sand-like appearance.
Garfield appears to sport a mackerel tabby coat with vertical stripes on his body. Mackerels are the most common type of pattern in tabby cats. Another telling trait is the lines that form an M shape on the forehead, as well as the dark lines coming from his eyes.
In addition to the Persian and Exotic Shorthair, some other breeds that may have lent lovable characteristics to the cartoon character of Garfield. The orange tabby color pattern Garfield the cat sports is most commonly found in the British Shorthair, Persian, Maine Coon, Munchkin, Turkish Angora, Bengal, and Exotic Shorthair. Read on to meet the breeds that may have inspired one of America’s most beloved fictional felines.
#1 British Shorthair
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Medium-to-large shorthair
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$300-$5,000
British Shorthairs are one of the oldest breeds of cat in the world. The Romans are said to have imported these cats from Egypt, probably bringing them over with them when they invaded Britain.
The British Shorthair’s coat is short, thick and plush, and comes in many colors, including orange. Eye color, which depends on the coat color, ranges from blue to copper.
Like Garfield, the British Shorthair is often relaxed and easy-going, and have a sweet temperament and affectionate nature. They generally like to remain inactive and don’t need much play or exercise to be content.
#2 Persian
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Medium to large long-haired
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$1300 - $3000
The Persian cat appeared in the West around 1620, but it wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that this breed became in high demand. The Persian is considered one of the most intelligent cats and are known for the ability to be trained.
Persians with white coats are considered the the most iconic, but orange Persians are some of the most distinct-looking cats around.
Similar to the character of Garfield, Persian cats are selective and only offer attention with family and a few trusted friends. This adorable, flat, round faced cat breed does get along well with children as well as other household pets. However, Persian’s are not a fan of loud environments and prefer calm homes where little changes.
#3 Maine Coon
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Large Longhair
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$400 to $2,000
The Maine Coon cat breed is one of the largest and most popular in the world, hailing from the state of Maine, where it developed naturally.
Maine Coons are available in more than 30 color variations, including orange tabby, just like Garfield. The Main Coon’s long hair is silky and smooth and grows shorter near the shoulders.
Maine Coons are a smart and loyal breed that loves human companionship. They are known for their sweet disposition and calm outlook on life, and they tend to follow their favorite human around the house. The Maine Coon’s activity level can range from couch potato to energetic, but they do like to be high up. They are also known to be intrigued by water.
#4 Munchkin
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Small short-haired and long-haired
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$1,000-$2,000
The Munchkin is a relatively new breed, only becoming established during the 1980s.
Munchkin cats come in many color combinations and patterns, including orange tabby. They may have short hair, or long hair. Shorthaired Munchkins can have plush medium coats, while longhaired Munchkins have silky smooth hair.
Munchkin’s are spry, energetic, and loving little cats. What they lack in leg length they make up for with their unusual looks and affectionate temperament. They can often be seen sitting up on their back legs to look out of the window or to see over furniture. The Munchkin is highly intelligent and can be taught tricks when rewarded with treats.
#5 Turkish Angora
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Small to medium-sized long-haired
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$1000 - $2000
This natural breed originated in the Ankara region near central Turkey and they are considered a national treasure. It is believed that the Turkish Angora was introduced to Europe by the Vikings, probably during the 10th century. The Turkish Angora was then believed to have been brought to the United States in the 1950’s by American servicemen.
he first Turkish Angoras were white with blue or green eyes, they are now found in many colors, including orange tabby. Like Garfield, the Turkish Angora has a cobby build and large, expressive eyes.
The Turkish Angora is very intelligent and is known for its problem-solving skills, as well as being highly trainable. This breed can learn basic commands, and actively responds to human emotions, making them an emotionally intelligent breed.
#6 Bengal
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Large shorthair
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$1,500 - $3,000
Bengals have gorgeous coats that come in many striking patterns including tabby, rosetted, spotted, and marbled, which consists of two-toned swirled markings, sometimes with additional color tones inside the pattern. Many Bengals ahem glitter, an effect that makes the coat look as though it’s sparkling.
Like Garfield, some Bengals come in an orange tabby coloration. Bengals are also very smart and social cats with playful personalities—they are known to get into trouble by turning on light switches or opening cabinets when they are restless. Unlike Garfield, however, the Bengal is naturally athletic and enjoys climbing and jumping, so you can be sure they will find an indoor adventure to get into. The Bengal is also trainable and has been known to walk on a leash.
#7 Exotic Shorthair
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Small to medium-sized shorthair
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$1,000-$5,000
In the United States and Britain in the 1960s, Persians were exclusively bred with American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs, in order to produce shorter coats that are easier to manage. This lower-maintenance breed is a favorite among cat owners because it is less likely to get matted fur.
Exotic Shorthairs are very much like the Persian having the same small, rounded, wide-set ears that slope slightly forward. The Exotic Shorthair has a short muzzle, and rounded, doll-like eyes also like the Persian. The main thing that makes these two breeds different is that the Exotic Shorthair lacks the long, plush coat of the Persian.
Like Garfield, the Exotic Shorthair has a laid-back, mellow personality. Exotic Shorthairs are reported to be somewhat livelier than Persians; they are as likely to be found taking a nap as they are playing with their owners.
Garfield Cat Breeds Tend To Gain Weight Easily
Garfield is known for overeating (especially his favorite food lasagna). Large-framed cats ware prone to obesity, which can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, and a shorter life span. It is a good idea to have your cat on a routine and portion-controlled meal schedule.
To help your kitty maintain a healthy weight, stimulate him with some interactive play time. Keeping your cat active will keep his joints, bones, and muscles strong.
Final Thoughts
Garfield type cats are not a breed, but many breeds with the orange tabby coat color pattern may have inspired the fictional feline. Not all cat breeds have orange tabby as an option; orange is considered one of the rarer cat colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of breed of cat is Garfield?
Jim Davis, the creator of Garfield, has said that fictional comic character cat named Garfield is a composite of different kinds of breeds. However, judging by his personality, facial features, and his fur pattern, it's possible that Garfield may be closest to an orange tabby Persian or Exotic Shorthair.
Is Garfield a Bengal cat?
Garfield is actually a composite of many cat breeds according to creator, Jim Davis, who grew up with many cats his family farm in Fairmont, Indiana.
How much does a Garfield cat cost?
A Persian kitten can cost anywhere within the range of $1,300 to $3,000 or more. But why not consider an orange tabby rescue? There are many Garfield type cat breeds that fit the bill.
I was pleased to see that the Persian Angora lives to 18 years. That means there must be many who live longer. My guy is 17. What a beautiful and loving animal he is. He is all white with one blue eye and one green.
Thank you for commenting, Natalia! Wishing you and your beautiful kitty all the best.
Very. Informative reading….
Now I know where my cat,, 2 years old male , comes from
I got him from the family, who bought the kitten during Covid lockdowns…. Now they all are busy…l
He is orange,eyes are orange too, tail with white stripes and white tip..
Their loss, my gain..
Thank you
I want a Garfield cat so bad but it’s too many people in my family allergic to cats 😔
Hi I’m looking for a Persian tabby cat or British short hair I live in Brooklyn New York adopting one is a wonderful I saw two on your site that I’m interested in can you please email me information about them. Thank you
Hi Renee, we do not sell or house any cats; you will need to contact local rescues or look for breeders in your area!
Garfield is the best! Meow!