Jim Davis’ popular cartoon character, Garfield, is a lasagna-loving big orange Persian/ tabby cat. While some speculate that he looks more like a Persian cat, others are adamant that he is a tabby cat due to his distinctive stripes. However, it is likely that Garfield is a mixed-breed cat; therefore, he has both Persian and tabby in him. Now you know what kind of breed Garfield is, read on to discover exactly what makes Garfield a mixed-breed cat and everything you need to know about the adored cartoon character.
Originally, Garfield was a comic strip created and illustrated by Jim Davis. In 1978, the comic became nationally and internationally known under the name ‘Garfield’. In 1988, Garfield first aired as a television series and became a hit. Since then, there have been numerous movies, series, and spin-offs of Garfield, to this day. Therefore, it’s safe to say that Garfield is a well-known household name. The whole premise of the series, comics, and movies focuses on the day-to-day life of an overweight - and somewhat sarcastic, sassy - orange cat called Garfield. The cat is famously known for his hatred for Mondays and insatiable love for lasagna. Other characters in the show include Odie (the pet dog) and Jon (Garfields’s owner), as well as other frequent characters.
Despite the fact that Garfield can talk, other features that distinguish him from any other cat include his striped body, his round face, and his bright orange fur. These are all features that have made Garfield become as popular as he is today, as well as his laziness and smug sarcastic personality that people love. All of these physical traits are commonly found in both tabby and Persian cats. While the comic strips don’t specify the length of Garfield's fur, since Persians are bred with exotic shorthairs, it is likely that Garfield is a shorthair tabby/Persian.
The name ‘Garfield’ was incorporated by Jim Davis to honor his grandfather. This was determined by Davis due to Garfield's and his grandfather's somewhat shared resemblance in their personalities. Garfield developed his infamous fixation on pasta, more specifically lasagna, from birth having been born close by an Italian restaurant. Although, in due course, Garfield found himself in a pet store. This is where his owner, Jon, found him and decided to adopt the adorable, chubby kitten. Famously known for his strong personality, Garfield is an extremely smug, sarcastic cat who doesn’t take any form of criticism without dishing out a snide remark back at you. Despite teasing Jon and Odie relentlessly, Garfield, deep down, loves them both - although, he won’t admit it! He also loves his teddy bear which he is often seen sleeping with, this frequently makes an appearance in the comics.
Since the comics, as previously mentioned, there have been numerous films and television spin-offs that, primarily, took inspiration from the original comics. For instance, in 1988, the first Garfield television show debuted called Garfield and Friends. Actors including Scott Beach, Tom Smothers, and Bill Murray are some of the voice-actors that were used to portray Garfield and have become voices synonymous with the grumpy cat. Apart from a television show, other adaptations of the comic strip include video games and a musical, which, unfortunately, was never as popular as the original adaptations. Garfield continues to grace the funny pages, with the same designs and inspirations from the original illustration of Jim Davis. Although, some illustrations are manufactured by Dan Daivs.
In the United States, Persian cats are the second most popular cat breed to have as a pet. They can be characterized by their stocky legs, short noses, and long fur. This fur can come in a wide variety of colors; however, they are most famously known for their pristine white coats which are featured a lot in movies and television series; ranging from the 007 Bond movies to The Aristocats. The particular origin of Persian cats is not widely known or recorded. When looking at the 1600s, records exist stating that Persian cats were imported from Iran to Italy, as well as from Turkey to France.
Within a Mental Floss interview, Jim Davis explained that Garfield is a very universal character, and isn’t constrained to one particular gender, race, nationality, or age. However, within the comics, Garfield is commonly referred to and described with male pronouns such as he/him/his or ‘boy’. Although, after many raging Wikipedia edit wars that were seen debating the pressing topic of whether or not Garfield is a boy or girl, Jim Davis spoke in The Washington Post to settle the debate once and for all. He answered a more direct question and revealed that Garfield is in fact male. In the Mental Floss interview, it is likely presumed that Jim Davis intended to say that Garfield was created and designed for all audiences, no matter their background or gender. Therefore, Jim Davis created a funny, chubby cat for everyone to enjoy and love.
Garfield is a fictional cat. However, during his childhood, Jim Davis grew up on a farm surrounded by several cats. He based his illustrations on the many large cats that were roaming his farm. Although Garfield may not be based on a real cat, his name and personality were based on and inspired by Jon Davis’ grandfather.
Throughout the years, Garfield has become a loved and adored comic strip, television series, and movie by many generations. While Garfield may be a fictional character, he shares many of the same characteristics as a Persian/ tabby cat. Hopefully, this guide has provided you with everything you need to know about Garfield.
The famous comic strip character created by Jim Davis, has gotten many people curious as to whether a Garfield cat breeds really exist.
Just exactly what kind of cat is this iconic kitty?
Do his breeds (yes, breeds, he’s more than one as you’ll see below) make good household pets?
Keep reading for all of these answers and more!
What Kind of Cat is Garfield?
According to Garfield creator, Jim Davis, this fictional feline is a composite of different kinds of breeds. However, Garfield, the cat is more associated these days with a Persian breed known as the Persian Tabby.
That said, there are actually a bunch of other orange tabbies that can be considered as a Garfield breed. Let’s take a look.
Check more fluffy orange cats!
The Persian Tabby
The Tabby Persian cat is probably the one that is most associated with the fictional feline among all types of cats that can be considered as a Garfield cat breed.
This breed of cat was developed through years of experiments that ultimately resulted in a fluffy feline with a cute face.
Persians are considered to be one of many short-ear cat breeds. Their ears, along with their round face and short muzzle give them that perfect Garfield look!
Unlike the character in the comic strip, the Tabby Persian has quite a sweet personality. They can be quite laid back and, in fact, likes being shown affection by their human owner without being too needy or clingy.
The breed can be quite choosy with whom it likes to be with, though, pretty much like how Garfield often chooses Jon Arbuckle as his constant companion.
Exotic Shorthair Cat
This breed is actually another type of Persian cat breed, this time a short-haired version. The thick and soft fur coat makes them quite huggable. It also is an expensive cat breed that is usually priced anywhere between $1500-2500!!
These kitty cats appear to be heavily boned but with well-balanced body structures. Their faces are usually around and almost cherubic.
Added to this are their large eyes that are set wide apart to complete that innocent, sweet look.
Unlike other Persians, this breed can be quite playful without carrying their playfulness to an extreme. Although they are more active and playful than their Persian relatives, they generally still have a calm temperament.
They enjoy most of their day lying in one corner of the room or sitting on their human’s lap. They can be quite devoted to their adopted humans.
This type of cat can be quite a loyal companion that will follow his human wherever he goes. It can shower his human with lots of affection too whenever he receives the attention and cuddles that he needs.
READ MORE: Siamese Color Patterns
British Shorthair Cat
British shorthair cat breeds used to be known for their bluish-gray dense coat although nowadays, their coat color now comes in a variety of combinations.
This is a popular cat breed known for a rounded head and cute, chubby cheeks which makes them look like a cuddly teddy bear.
In terms of personality, this breed has an affectionate personality without being too clingy. In fact, maybe it’s the British in them that makes these cats quite reserved and quiet.
They rarely like being cuddled nor carried. They would rather stay by the feet of their humans due to their reserved and independent nature.
Once they get past their reservations though, they can be extremely loyal and faithful feline companions.
Unlike Garfield, who seems to see poor Odie the dog as his arch-nemesis, the British Shorthair can easily get along with anyone in the household, including other common household pets. Yes, that includes your dog!
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon gets its name from Maine, USA where it first originated. They’re quite popular among American cat lovers.
Maine Coons are considered to be one of the largest breeds of cats. They usually weigh anywhere from 6-11 kgs and can reach up to 16-inches tall.
For domesticated house cats, they can be quite long reaching up to an average of 38 inches in length.
They are big ear cat breeds with their ears sitting high on their heads. Their ears are quite large in width at the base which continuously tapers as they reach the tip.
The Maine Coon has a thick and shaggy coat. Along with its size, this pet cat breed is one of the most huggable there is.
Despite its size, the Maine Coon has a gentle personality which makes it a perfect match for kids. It is an intelligent breed and it can be trained to follow commands, pretty much like dogs.
Unlike other cats, this breed seems to enjoy water so giving a bath is not a problem with these gentle giants.
Check: All About the Tabby Maine Coon Cat
Munchkin
If this cat were colored gray, you could probably consider this breed as the live version of Garfield’s cat nemesis, Nermal.
Munchkins, as their name implies, are small cats with thick but well-rounded chests, medium-sized bodies, and short legs. They have walnut-shaped eyes that are widely spaced.
Their ears are wide at the base and although they taper, the tips are rounded rather than pointed. They may have either short or long silky hair.
Munchkins can be very playful and active, capable of forming strong bonds with their humans through constant interaction with them.
They are quite affectionate and friendly, despite their mischievous character. Although they are pretty playful and active, don’t expect to see much climbing from this breed due to their short legs.
The short legs though do not limit their activity as this breed can be pretty agile and quick. At the end of the day, after all the play, they do like to cuddle up to their humans and end up in their chosen human’s lap.
American Bobtail
American bobtails have long coats that are silky in texture. They have medium-sized heads, almond-shaped eyes, and short tails giving them a gorgeous appearance. Their coats come in a wide combination of patterns and shades.
Just like Munchkins, American Bobtails too can be quite intelligent, playful, and energetic. They, too, can be quite friendly even to strangers and other household pets. (Yes again! It can get along with the pet dog too!)
They also are very loyal to their adopted humans, forming deep bonds with those whom they choose to associate.
Turkish Angora
These types of cats carry with them a graceful look due to their fine and silky coat. They come in a wide range of colors, including the orange color that is associated with Garfield.
Unlike Garfield though, their bodies can be long and muscular, which adds to that graceful look. They also have heads that are small and round, with ears that are quite a wide set.
The almond eyes can come in different colors too — paired blue-amber or blue-green!
Turkish Angoras can be quite active and they prefer to stay in high places.
Although gentle in nature, Turkish Angoras seem to be set in their opinions. They can be quite insistent with what they want that you can rarely win an argument with this feline friend.
In other words, they like to be in control of the situation. This doesn’t mean though that they aren’t capable of affection. They can be affectionate but a bit more reserved than the others on the list.
They can also be very devoted companions as well. Angoras develop a great sense of loyalty to the family that has adopted it, but it does have the tendency to be more devoted to the member that showers him with the most affection.
ALSO CHECK: Siberian Cat Colors Patterns
Bengal
The Bengal cat may take on the features of a wildcat, but its temperament is pretty much that of a domestic housecat. It has a muscular body covered with a thick, orange coat that has black spots or stripes. This makes it one of the most beautiful domestic, distinct breeds of cats.
The Bengal cat is a very active and playful cat. Its muscular body makes it easy for them to get to pretty high places, which is where you can usually find them. They also are quite intelligent and curious. You can easily teach them a number of tricks, that is if they haven’t learned the tricks by themselves. Bengal cats are quite friendly so they immediately get along with humans.
They are quite fun-loving but are pretty devoted and loyal to their adopted family. They do like seeking attention and that is what you have to give to them in order for you to gain their unswerving loyalty. Attention, however, doesn’t mean that they love being cuddled. Bengals treasure their freedom quite a bit so restraining them in a hug can be a source of irritation for them.
There may be many other cat breeds that can pass for a Garfield cat breed. Anything that falls within the category of an orange cat species can be considered a Garfield cat breed. The cat’s passion for lasagna though is an entirely different matter.
References
- “British Shorthair.” 2020. Daily Paws. 2020. //www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/british-shorthair.
- “Garfield Cat Breed (Persian Tabby) – Everything You Need to Know – Tuxedo Cat.” 2021. Tuxedo Cat. July 8, 2021. //www.tuxedo-cat.co.uk/garfield-cat-breed-persian-tabby/.
- “Jim Davis.” 2021. Garfield Wiki. 2021. //garfield.fandom.com/wiki/Jim_Davis.
- “Maine Coon.” 2018. Petfinder. 2018. //www.petfinder.com/cat-breeds/maine-coon/.
- “Munchkin.” 2018. Petfinder. 2018. //www.petfinder.com/cat-breeds/munchkin/.
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