When it comes to choosing a pet, people often misunderstand cats solely because they are more independent compared to canines. However, once cats are bonded well with their owners, they can be super affectionate. But that also depends on the cat’s personality.
While it is undeniable that some cat breeds are known to be more affectionate and cuddly than other cat breeds, and they rely on humans for a close attachment.
But did you know which are the friendliest cat breeds?
Keep reading to find out!
1. Abyssinian
Abyssinian cats top the list for being one of the friendliest cat breeds of all time, though they are not considered lap cats anymore.
The history of these felines dates back to Ancient Egyptian time, believed to have originated from Abyssinia, which is now called Ethiopia. These cats are friendly and very active, making a striking pet addition to the family.
2. Maine Coon
The cats of the Maine Coon breed are particularly friendly and intelligent. In fact, Maine Coon cats can easily adapt to their surroundings and get along with almost everyone, including kids, other pets, and also other cats.
Together with the friendly characteristics, the Maine Coons cats have one of the most beautiful cat coats that are also one of the longest.
And if we are not insulting, Maine Coons are a more dog-like breed, they love playing “dog games” like fetch and activities such as walking on a leash.
3. Siamese
One of the best and a well-known cat breeds, Siamese cats are curious, smart, and love seeking attention, as they are highly demanding cats. The perfect cat breed for you, if you are looking for one that is ready to play and converse with you all day.
Moreover, this cat breed is also one of the most intelligent cat breeds in the world. Siamese cats are known to be deeply sensitive and can get easily jealous. These cats can be possessive of their owners and difficult to deal with unfamiliar people. These beauties also have mesmerizing blue eyes.
4. Persian
Next up, we have one of the most popular cat breeds in the world — Persian cats. The cats of this breed are known to be very friendly, and they have a laid-back and relaxed nature.
Moreover, Persian cats love to snuggle up with their owners, so when you come back home, you can expect your Persian kitty to seek your attention for cuddles. Persian cats have a unique appearance, they have a pushed-in flat face with a round head, small, rounded ears, and big eyes, making them one of the most unique-looking cats.
5. Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats are one of the relatively new-age cats, they originated during the 1960s, crediting the creation of the breed to the breeder named Ann Baker from California.
By choosing the traits like friendly personality and long, soft fur, Ann Baker was finally able to produce the big, soft kitty every cat lover knows and loves today — Ragdoll. However, the breeds used in the creation of Ragdoll still remain a mystery. At last, Ragdolls are known to be gentle, calm, and sociable as well, making them a perfect pet.
6. Sphynx
Although not considered as one of the best-looking cats, the Sphynx cats are actually one of the friendliest cat breeds in the world. In fact, a study in 2012 by Journal of Veterinary Behavior ranked Sphynxes as the most affectionate cat breed in the world.[1]
If you want a happy cat that is not the best looking but will sleep on your lap while you watch TV, cuddle with you at night, and be present waiting for you when you are back from work, then the Sphynx cats won’t disappoint.
7. Burmese
The cats from the Burmese breed are definitely people cats who enjoy spending as much time as possible with their owners. You are not likely to get much privacy if you had a Burmese cat as a pet.
These cats are very curious and attention-seeking, they will want to know everything, what’s in the cupboard, what’s under the bed, sit with you while you surf the web on the computer. While you might have a little less privacy with a Burmese cat in your home, but the cuddles will surely make it all up.
8. Birman
The person who came up with the phrase for dogs as “a man’s best friend,” has surely never met a Birman cat. These cats are docile and quiet, but they are also affectionate, intelligent, and social.
While there is no origin of the cats of Birman breed, they have been bred as companions for generations. Moreover, they can make a good playmate for kids, as Birman cats are gentle, patient, and just the right balance between a loving and active, and playful pet.
9. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthair is a cat breed that originated from the Persian cat breed. Except for hair attributes, the Exotic Shorthair cats are similar to Persian cats in many ways, including temperament and conformation, appearance — a flat nose, and face.
These cats have gentle and calm personalities, moreover, they are curious and playful, and playful to other pets such as dogs. Exotic Shorthair cats make the best lap cats, and they don’t like being left alone and need the presence of their owners all the time.
10. Bengal
Isn’t it surprising when a cat loves water? Well, Bengal cats are obsessed with it, so don’t be amazed if she jumps in the bathtub with you. If you have a Bengal cat at home, then buying a cat fountain would keep her entertained, plus she will appreciate this sweet gift.
Moreover, Bengal cats would top the list of the sportiest cats in the world; they are active, energetic and also retain their athletic personality from their Asian leopard cat ancestors. However, this does not mean they are not the friendliest cat breeds. When introduced to other pets, such as cats and dogs, they would be able to bond well and get along quickly.
Bengal cats make great, affectionate pets, as they are generally very friendly. However, before getting a Bengal cat, know that they require lots of attention and stimulation.
The list of the friendliest cat breeds does not end here, you are only halfway there. Keep reading!
11. Devon Rex
Here’s another cat that likes nothing more than just some quality cuddling time with its owner — Devon Rex. They are highly sociable, and they get along perfectly with kids and other pets.
It is said that the Devon Rex cats have a clownish character, which makes them fun pets to have around. At last, cuddling and messing around with their owners is a favorite thing to do for the Devon Rex cats.
12. Scottish Fold
Scottish Fold cats are couch potatoes and are prized for their affectionate and outgoing character. It is interesting how they are born with straight ears. However, the ears fold when the kitten gets 2 to 3 weeks old.
Moreover, these cats are famous for their fun quirks — they like to sit like humans, which has been dubbed as “The Buddha Sit” by their owners. And due to their roly-poly build and short legs, Scottish Folds cats are better cuddlers than they are jumpers.
13. Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin, once thought of as a variant of Ragdolls, was later discovered to be a separate cat breed. These cats are well-known for their friendly personalities and thick, rabbit-like coat.
The pleasant and friendly cat demeanor of these cats makes them excellent pets for homes with children and other pets such as dogs and fellow cats.
14. Chartreux
Chartreux, as the name suggests, is a cat breed from France. The cats from this breed are uniquely large and muscular with relatively short, fine-boned legs, however, they possess fast reflexes.
Like the Maine Coon cats, Chartreux cats also exhibit some dog-like behavior, such as following you throughout the house and sometimes playing fetch. And they love mousing, very much.
15. Cornish Rex
Known for a soft, short, and wavy coat, the cats from the breed Cornish Rex are a product of a spontaneous natural mutation, not an unheard occurrence in the world of cats.
Cornish Rex cats are very affectionate and enjoy being around people — so much that they might demand attention and companionship with anyone.
16. Russian Blue
Although Russian Blue cats are a distinct breed with unique characteristics, they belong to the same classification as the British Blue Cat, the Chartreux of France, and the Korat of Thailand.
Russian Blue cats have a triangular-shaped head with pointed ears and wide, round eyes that give them a friendly, cute expression. These cats are not easily trainable but also highly friendly.
17. Siberian
Another great lap cat, Siberian cats are a Russian cat breed and are lovable and loyal family companions who get along perfectly well with children and other pets.
Not only are the cats of this breed friendly and affectionate to their owners, but also to random strangers.
18. Bombay
Bombay cats have an elegant black-colored short coat with a solid pattern. Grooming these cats is easy, and they are one of the easy cat breeds to maintain. But when you pick up a Bombay cat, you would feel that she is considerably heavier than she actually appears.
Moreover, becoming friends with a Bombay cat means that she will demand a lot of attention and your time.
19. Tonkinese
Tonkinese cats are playful and energetic, with a tricky side. Full of beans, these cats are sociable and would enjoy hanging out with humans. If someone were to come to the door, a Tonkinese cat is sure to act like a door-greeter.
Perfect for children, other pet cats, and cat-friendly dogs, the Tonkinese cats are very communicative and friendly.
20. American Shorthair
At last, we have American Shorthair cats that are known for their adaptable temperaments and quiet, chatty voices.
These cats are outgoing and relatively easy to train and adapt well to the surroundings, with other pets, and other people.
Conclusion
When you choose to bring home a cat and decide to share your life with her, bear in mind there are other additional factors to developing a close, friendly relationship with your cat, and not just the breed type.
Though this post talked about the friendliest cat breeds, these cats are indeed known for their affectionate nature, but all cats are not the same.
Thus, if you are hoping to bring home one of these cats, it is best that you talk to a breeder or shelter for more information about specific cats that you are interested in.
References
- Abyssinian — PetMD
- Top 10 Friendliest Cat Breeds — Pumpkin Pet Insurance
- Six of the Friendliest Cat Breeds — Hill’s Pet