8 Flat-Faced Cats with the Cutest Smooshed Faces These cats stand out with their unique look—but come with unique care needs. By Katie Koschalk Katie Koschalk Katie Koschalk is a writer specializing in the pet niche. In addition to The Spruce Pets, her writing has appeared in Be.Chewy, Great Pet Care, and Vetstreet. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 10/15/25 Credit: Kryssia Campos / Getty Images Flat-faced cats, also known as brachycephalic cats, have distinctive facial features that give them an endearing, almost cartoon-like appearance. However, their unique flat faces can make them more prone to health issues, which pet owners should be aware of, according to Jessica Apted, DVM. We rounded up eight cat breeds that share the flat-faced characteristic and got expert advice on how to best care for these unique felines. Meet the Expert Jessica Apted, DVM, is the regional medical director for Sploot Veterinary Care. Breed Characteristics The most defining characteristic of these flat-faced cat breeds is their brachycephalic skull, which results in a flat face and short nose. While undeniably cute, the facial structure of flat-faced cats can increase the risk of a few health problems. According to Apted, some of the most common issues seen in flat-faced cats include: Respiratory problems: The compressed nasal passages in flat-faced cats can lead to breathing difficulties, a condition known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This can result in a range of symptoms, from mild snorting and snoring to more serious breathing issues. These breeds are also more susceptible to respiratory infections. Dental issues: Flat-faced cats often have misaligned teeth, making them more susceptible to dental problems, such as crowding and periodontal disease, particularly if regular dental care is not provided. These breeds are also at a higher risk of tooth resorption—a condition that causes the cat’s body to break down and absorb a tooth's structure. Eye conditions: The prominent eyes of flat-faced cats are more exposed, making them vulnerable to physical injuries, corneal damage, and eye infections. Additionally, their tear ducts don’t drain into the nose, leading to persistent tearing and tear staining. Without regular grooming, this can result in skin irritation. Skin fold dermatitis: The skin folds around the cat’s face can trap moisture, bacteria, and fungal spores, increasing the risk of skin infections and facial dermatitis. This can cause itching, redness, and discomfort, necessitating regular cleaning and veterinary care to prevent and manage these issues. Heat sensitivity: Panting is a key way cats cool down, but because flat-faced cats have compromised respiratory function, they can struggle with regulating their body temperature. As a result, they’re more susceptible to heatstroke, especially during hot weather. Depending on the breed and breeding program, some of the cat breeds below are fully brachycephalic, while others are only moderately so. Regardless, it’s important to keep an eye out for unusual symptoms and take your cat to regular veterinary checkups. 01 of 08 Persian White Persian Cat with Blue Eyes. Credit: Getty / Agency Animal Picture Persians are the quintessential flat-faced cats, famous for their distinctive scrunched noses and luxurious long fur. As one of the oldest cat breeds, their history dates back to the 1600s. Although their exact origins are a bit unclear, it's believed they originated in Mesopotamia, later known as Persia (modern-day Iran), which is where they get their name. Beyond their appearance, Apted says this breed is known for their calm and affectionate nature, making them perfect lap cats. Just be sure to detangle their long fur daily with a wide-toothed metal comb, followed by brushing, to prevent matting and remove loose hair. Breed Overview Height: 10 to 15 inches Weight: 7 to 12 pounds Personality/Temperament: Sweet, gentle, affectionate, laid-back Energy Level: Calm Coat and Color: Long hair; Solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, bicolor; Blue, black, white, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, silver, golden Life Span: 15 to 20 years 15 Captivating Long-Haired Cat Breeds That Will Enchant You 02 of 08 Himalayan Credit: The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong The Himalayan, a cross between the Persian and Siamese, features the Persian's long, flowing coat and flat face, combined with the Siamese's striking blue eyes and distinctive color-point markings (darker ears, nose, feet, and tail). The breed is commonly believed to have originated at Harvard University in the 1930s, where researcher Clyde Keeler conducted a study focused on merging Siamese and Persian traits. While known for being laid-back, Himalayans also have a kitten-like playful side and love interacting with their human and animal family members. Like Persians, Himalayans need daily combing and brushing to maintain their coat. Breed Overview Height: 10 to 12 inchesWeight: 7 to 12 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Laid-back, affectionate, gentle, friendly, and intelligentEnergy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Long hair; Pointed markings; Chocolate, seal, blue, lilac, redLife Span: 9 to 15 years 03 of 08 British Shorthair Credit: Getty Images/chendongshan British shorthairs descended from cats brought to Great Britain by the Romans, which then interbred with local feral cats. Over time, these cats evolved into the British shorthair, characterized by their dense coat, round face, and teddy bear-like appearance. While they have a slightly flat-faced look, their muzzle is not as short as that of Persians or Himalayans. British shorthairs are affectionate without being overly demanding, making them ideal for those who want a loving but relatively independent cat. They are fairly low-maintenance compared to long-haired breeds, but their thick coats benefit from brushing once or twice weekly. Breed Overview Height: 12 to 14 inchesWeight: 7 to 17 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Affectionate, easy-going, and friendlyEnergy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Short hair; Tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, bicolor; White, black, blue, red, cream, smoke, silver, goldenLife Span: 12 to 16 years 11 Best British Cat Breeds 04 of 08 British Longhair Credit: EndTimeImages / Getty Images The British longhair was developed in the early 20th century when British shorthairs were bred with Persians to introduce long-haired traits. This breed has a round face and short nose, giving them a moderately smooshed-face look. British longhairs tend to be quite food-motivated and intelligent, so you can likely teach them some tricks (if you can get them to get up from their cozy nook, that is). Due to their long locks, this breed requires daily combing and brushing to keep their fur in top condition. Breed Overview Height: 12 to 14 inchesWeight: 8 to 16 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Affectionate, social, mellow, loyal Energy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Long hair; Bicolor, solid, tabby; Black, blue, gray, brown, beige, lavender, red, whiteLife Span: 12 to 15 years Continue to 5 of 8 below 05 of 08 Exotic Shorthair Exotic. Credit: Dmitry Brant [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)] This breed was developed in the US in the 1960s when breeders bred Persians with American shorthairs. Exotic shorthairs share many of the Persian's characteristics (including a flat face) but have a shorter double-coat that requires less grooming, thus earning them the nickname ‘lazy man’s Persian,’ Apted says. Exotics are known for their sweet, affectionate nature, and tend to get along with everyone, including children and other pets in the house. They have relatively low activity needs, but won’t pass up a good play session with a fishing pole feather teaser. Breed Overview Height: 10 to 12 inchesWeight: 10 to 12 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Affectionate, social, loyalEnergy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Short hair; Tortoiseshell, bicolor, tricolor, tabby, smoke, shaded;Black, blue, gray, brown, beige, lavender, silver, red, whiteLife Span: 8 to 15 years 06 of 08 Scottish Fold Credit: The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska “Scottish folds, also known as Coupari cats, are easily identifiable by their unique folded ears, expressive eyes, and thick, plush fur,” Apted says. Their rounded faces and short, wide noses also gives them a moderately flat-faced look. This breed originated in Scotland in the 1961 when a kitten with folded ears was discovered in a litter of otherwise normal-eared kittens. This kitten was then bred with domestic cats and British shorthair cats to establish the folded ear trait. “When it comes to temperament, they’re known for their sweet and loyal personalities, often forming strong bonds with their pet parents,” Apted says. They’re playful and enjoy interactive toys but are also content to curl up in a cozy spot. Breed Overview Height: 8 to 10 inchesWeight: 6 to 13 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Affectionate, social, playful, intelligentEnergy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Short or long hair (a long-haired variant is less common); Tabby, tortoiseshell, and calico; Brown, gray, black, red, cream, whiteLife Span: 11 to 14 years 07 of 08 Selkirk Rex Credit: Krister Parmstrand / EyeEm / Getty Images The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new breed that originated in the United States in 1988. The breed began when a Montana cat breeder discovered a curly-coated kitten in a litter of otherwise straight-coated kittens. This kitten was bred with a Persian (and later British shorthairs and Exotics), establishing the Selkirk Rex breed, which is one of only four breeds of cats with wavy fur. Selkirk Rex cats stand out with their curly fur and round, moderately flat faces, giving them a whimsical, teddy bear-like appearance. These cats are very loving (and sometimes a little needy), but not overly demanding. They enjoy interactive play and are known for having lots of personality. Breed Overview Height: 9 to 11 inchesWeight: 6 to 16 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Affectionate, social, loyal, curiousEnergy Level: CalmCoat and Color: Long or short hair; All patterns; Black, blue gray, brown, beige, lavender, silver, red, whiteLife Span: 15 to 20 years Curly-Haired Cats: 4 Breeds with Unique Coats and Charming Personalities 08 of 08 Burmese Credit: The Spruce / Kristie Lee Burmese cats are recognized for their round faces with a slightly flat profile, large yellow eyes, and short noses, giving them a moderately flat-faced appearance. They have a compact, muscular build and a short, glossy coat with a satin-like feel. The majority of today’s Burmese trace their lineage back to a single cat brought to America from Burma in 1930. This cat was bred with Siamese cats, resulting in the Burmese breed. Burmese cats have been described as “dog-like” in that they tend to develop strong bonds with their humans and love following them around. As such, they don’t do well being left alone for long periods of time. These kitties are also very curious and enjoy interactive play, making them a lively and engaging addition to any household. Breed Overview Height: 9 to 13 inchesWeight: 8 to 15 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Alert, affectionate, friendly, intelligent, playful, loyalEnergy Level: ActiveCoat and Color: Short hair; Tortoiseshell, solid, or pointed markings; Platinum, blue, gray, brown, champagne, lilac, red, creamLife Span: 15 to 20 years Breeds to Avoid If you’re drawn to the flat-faced look, any of the breeds mentioned above would be an excellent choice. With other popular cat breeds like the American shorthair, Siamese, Maine Coon, ragdoll, Siberian, and Bengal, you won’t find that distinctive smooshy face. Welcoming a flat-faced cat into your family comes with added responsibilities and costs. These breeds require careful monitoring due to potential health issues, like respiratory or dental problems, linked to their facial structure. It's essential to consult your veterinarian promptly if any health issues arise. FAQ What is brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)? Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a condition that affects animals with very short snouts, leading to breathing difficulties due to compressed nasal passages. This syndrome is common in flat-faced breeds, causing symptoms from mild snoring to severe respiratory issues. How often should I groom a Persian cat to maintain its coat? Persians require daily grooming to prevent matting and maintain their luxurious long fur. A wide-toothed metal comb can help detangle the hair, followed by a brush to remove loose hair. Can flat-faced cats tolerate hot weather? Flat-faced cats tend to struggle with heat due to compromised respiratory functions, making them more vulnerable to heatstroke. It's essential to keep them cool and monitor them during hot weather. Explore more: Cats Cat Breeds Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Persian Cats. Encyclopedia.com. Himalayan Cat. Wikipedia. British Shorthair. VCA Animal Hospitals. British Longhair Cat: Characteristics, Personality, and Breed Information. Cats.com. Exotic Shorthair. VCA Animal Hospitals. Scottish Fold. VCA Animal Hospitals. Selkirk Rex. VCA Animal Hospitals. The History of the Burmese Breed. Burmesecat.org.