Most cats are not a breed, and that is fine
Unlike dogs, the large majority of pet cats have no pedigree. They are domestic shorthairs or longhairs: healthy, mixed-ancestry cats that come in every colour and pattern.
So a tabby coat does not make a cat a Bengal, and a fluffy grey cat is not necessarily a Persian or a Maine Coon. Miyu names the breed your cat resembles most and uses the confidence level to show how strong that resemblance is.
What the cat breed identifier looks at
- Coat: length, texture and pattern, such as tabby, pointed, tortoiseshell or solid.
- Colour: of the coat and, when visible, the eyes.
- Body type: slender, medium or sturdy, and the overall size.
- Head and ears: face shape, ear size and ear set, when the photo shows them clearly.
Coat pattern is not the same as breed
Many people search for a breed when they are really describing a pattern. These are patterns that appear across many breeds and in mixed cats:
| Pattern | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| Tabby | Stripes, swirls or spots, usually with an M shape on the forehead |
| Tuxedo | Black and white, like a formal suit |
| Calico | White with patches of orange and black |
| Tortoiseshell | Orange and black mixed together, little or no white |
| Pointed | Pale body with darker face, ears, paws and tail |
How to take a photo that gets a better guess
- Use daylight near a window. Dark cats especially need good light.
- Photograph the whole body from the side, then the face from the front.
- Wait until your cat is calm and sitting or standing, not curled up.
Frequently asked questions
Can a photo tell me my cat's breed for certain?
No. A photo shows what your cat looks like, not its ancestry. Miyu gives a best guess with a confidence level. Pedigree papers or a DNA test are the only way to be sure.
Why does my cat get a low confidence result?
Most pet cats are mixed, so they show features of several breeds or of none in particular. A low confidence result is the honest answer for a domestic shorthair or longhair.
Is the cat breed identifier free?
Miyu is free to download on iPhone and includes breed checks. A subscription removes the monthly limit.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Miyu is not a veterinarian and does not diagnose. If your pet seems unwell or you are worried, contact your vet.
