Cottagecore Squared: Cat breeds loved in the Victorian era

For many of us, one of the essential components of a home is a feline companion. Cats are so well loved these days, but it might come as a surprise that their time to shine first came quite recently. The popularity of cats as pet animals boomed during the Victorian era in England - the time period where the cottagecore aesthetic originates.

Cottagecore, a modern movement that harkens back to the days of old-fashioned rural living, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. It is an aesthetic subculture that started in fashion and moved on to home decor - in some more extreme cases even to lifestyle. After all, there is an existing trope about the obsession of modern day English people in their 30s with buying an old property and renovating it.

Cottagecore is a visual aesthetic and obviously it’s not like you will automatically tap into the aesthetic than with a furry feline friend by your side. But still, seeeing how popular cats got with the upper echelons of Victorian society, what would be the best cat breed for cottagecore enthusiasts? Let’s take a look at some of our furry favorites.

1. Persians

First and foremost, the Persian cat, which was all the rage in the Victorian era and remains popular today. The longhaired, affectionate breed is perfect for the relaxed cottagecore lifestyle. With their gorgeous locks and friendly nature, these iconic cats are bound to steal the spotlight in any cottage-style home.

2. Siamese

Siamese cats are beautiful and social creatures with striking blue eyes and a vocal talent to make them perfect for those hoping to replicate a genteel homestead. Their tendencies for being more demanding of attention and territorial instincts make them an interesting pet, sure to be a conversation starter. Not only have celebrities including Johnny Depp and Taylor Swift taken a liking to the Siamese, they’re also a favorite of designer Diane von Furstenberg.

3. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is also a classic choice. Once bred for hunting, these felines are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They love to nap and snooze during the day, making them great companions for those long, lazy days spent chilling in the cottage garden.

4. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a modern cat breed (first bred in the 1960s) but its adorably fluffy hairdo and laid back attitude give it a timeless charm that’s perfectly suited for anyone who loves old-timey, romantic aesthetics. Often referred to as “puppy cats” due to their friendly, loyal and velvety personalities, these cats are great for those who want a bundle of cuddles in a fur-ever home.

5. Devon Rex

Finally, the Devon Rex is a mischievous, intelligent cat that loves to explore and play. These cats are incredibly smart, and their lovely, wavy coats are sure to make them stand out in any cottagecore home.

Whatever breed you choose, you can guarantee a cottagecore-approved housemate who’ll be a loyal companion for years to come. So, if you’re looking for a purrr-fect fit for your rustic retreat, why not consider one of these furry favorites?

Victorian England and Cat Breeds: A Closer Look

When venturing into the quaint, countryside-inspired art of living, it only makes sense that cats would be an essential component. Whether it’s a contented feline curled up next to the fireplace or a gentle mouser lending its presence to a cozy bedroom — cats have a way of enhancing the feeling of home.

The Victorian Era was an era of exploration, where cats were given a considerable amount of attention in both general culture and within households. After all, cats had a hand in keeping rat populations down in a time when the mouse was a real threat to public health.

In this period, the most fashionable cats were the Angora, Persian, British Blue, Chartreux, and Siamese breeds. It’s worth mentioning that the backdrop of all this was colonization - that is how some of these cat breeds were introduced to the English. However, let’s not blame the cats for that. They are delightful companions all the same.

What do all those popular Victorian breeds have in common? All of these cats had thick, long fur that was both aesthetically appealing and provided comfort during the cold winters. Due to their use of color, even their mottled coats contain an almost magical quality, perfect for evoking a sense of nostalgia and soft charm.

Though these breeds are still popular today, best suited for cottagecore living is the Manx, the Scottish Fold, and the Bengal cat. All of these breed of cats are exceptionally loved for their unique appearance and personality. These breeds of cats typically have a British look about them - with golden and copper-colored eyes, long or curled tails, and an air of many meow-sir. Together, these breeds embody the Victorian principle of beauty, with a classic and manageable look that is not overly stylized. Consequently, they are ideal choices for anyone looking to recreate the cottagecore look in their home.

Whether it’s the gorgeous Angora, or the playful Manx, cats have an undeniable place in the cottagecore aesthetic. With the right breed, cats can bring the feeling of home to any living space, and bring us closer to the romantic notion of the 19th century.

And whether for the adorable appeal or the prestigious pedigree, cats have been and will continue to be popular companions amongst celebrities as well as in cottagecore. Choose the cat that suits your personality and share a little of their charm to others.