Breed Recognition & Status ★

Some breed names have recognition that differs from full breed recognition or registration status. GCCF's current breed page lists American Curl, German Longhair, Khao Manee, Kurilian Bobtail and Transylvanian under recognised breed names for registration and exhibition. The exact rules should be checked with GCCF because status and eligibility can change.

Breed recognition describes the status assigned to a breed by a particular cat organisation. Recognition, registration eligibility and show eligibility are not necessarily identical concepts. For UK shoppers and breeders, GCCF is an important reference point. Its current material distinguishes recognised breeds, recognised breed names and unrecognised breeds, with status subject to change.

GCCF recognised breeds are breeds currently recognised by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy for its registration and breed framework. GCCF states that it recognises 40 different cat breeds. Its current breed page provides breed characteristics and links to full details, while the Standard of Points version shown on that page is dated June 2026.

Cats may be recognised by other organisations even when they do not have the same status with GCCF in the UK. GCCF maintains an unrecognised-breeds resource explaining why some breeds are not currently recognised and notes that the list is subject to change. Buyers should distinguish an external registry's recognition from GCCF recognition and consider welfare evidence.