With the exception of a few true cat fanciers, Americans have traditionally been less particular about the bloodlines of their cats than of their dogs. Cats were most commonly seen on farms and they worked to help keep down the vermin population. As cats have become more of a companion than a farm-hand there has been a steadily increasing interest in cat breeds, their purity, and pedigree . The Cat Fanciers' Association is dedicated to the preservation of the purebred and recognizes 39 pedigreed cat breeds. Listed below are 15 of these breeds along with some information about the breed's characteristics and history.