While dogs are often lauded as man’s best friend, cats have long suffered from an unfair reputation. Stereotypes paint them as aloof, selfish, and untrainable creatures who begrudgingly tolerate humans. This couldn’t be further from the truth! In reality, cats are intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable animals that make wonderful companions and cherished members of the family.
This guide to the Best Cat Breeds will dispel those outdated myths and show you just how diverse and delightful the feline world truly is. From playful and energetic to calm and cuddly, there’s a cat breed to match every personality and lifestyle. With the right care, attention, and understanding, a cat will bring years of love, laughter, and companionship into your life.
To help you navigate the many wonderful options, we’ve compiled a list of 15 of the most popular and beloved cat breeds. Whether you’re seeking a hypoallergenic friend, a low-maintenance companion, or a playful family pet, you’re sure to find inspiration within these pages. We’ll start by exploring breeds known for being hypoallergenic, then move through short-haired to long-haired varieties, offering a diverse range to consider.
1. Sphynx
The strikingly unique Sphynx cat is a breed that truly stands out. Beyond its hairless appearance lies a playful, active, and even goofy personality that endears it to families and individuals alike. Sphynx cats are known to be exceptionally social, getting along famously with children and other pets, including dogs. In fact, their dog-like temperament and affectionate nature often surprise those unfamiliar with the breed. However, despite their adventurous spirit, Sphynx cats are strictly indoor companions. Their lack of fur makes them vulnerable to the elements, so secure windows and balconies are a must to ensure their safety.
A wrinkly, hairless Sphynx cat with large ears sitting upright and looking directly at the camera.
The Sphynx is a relatively modern breed, originating in Canada in 1966. Their hairlessness is due to a naturally occurring recessive gene, which also contributes to their low-shedding coat. This characteristic often leads to them being labeled as hypoallergenic cats, though no cat is truly allergen-free. However, Sphynx cats do require regular bathing to manage the natural oils that accumulate on their skin. If you are a fan of cuddles, the Sphynx is an ideal choice. Lacking fur, they feel the cold easily and will readily snuggle up with their human for warmth and affection.
Weight: 8–10 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
2. Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair is a breed brimming with personality. Playful, intelligent, and remarkably social, these cats thrive on companionship and interaction. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their affectionate and cuddly nature. Oriental Shorthairs are also energetic and curious, enjoying active play and exploration. While they can adapt to apartment living, they truly appreciate access to the outdoors. If you have a secure garden or catio, your Oriental Shorthair will relish the opportunity for outdoor playtime.
Second only to their love for exploration is their desire for attention. Oriental Shorthairs are devoted to their humans and enjoy being involved in daily life. They are known to follow their owners around the house, perch on laptops during work sessions, and generally seek to be at the center of household activities. This highly social nature means the Oriental Shorthair is not well-suited to being left alone for extended periods. They can become lonely and even depressed if they lack sufficient interaction.
Oriental Shorthairs are often considered hypoallergenic due to their fine, short coat, which sheds minimally. Their sleek fur also makes grooming a breeze. However, their thin coat means they can get cold easily, so providing warm and cozy spots, especially during colder months, is important.
Weight: 7–12 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
3. Devon Rex
Often described as dog-like, the Devon Rex is an endlessly entertaining and affectionate breed. Mischievous, energetic, and playful, the Devon Rex wants nothing more than to be by your side. They are loyal companions who will follow you from room to room, offering quiet companionship without being overly demanding of constant attention. However, like the Oriental Shorthair, they thrive on interaction and can become unhappy if left alone for too long.
A cream and brown Devon Rex cat with large ears, sitting and looking alert.
What truly sets the Devon Rex apart is its trainability. Highly intelligent and eager to please, they can learn tricks with remarkable ease, much like a dog. Fetching, jumping, and sitting are all within their repertoire, and some Devon Rexes can even be leash-trained for walks. Despite their adventurous nature, they are best suited to indoor living to keep them safe from outdoor hazards.
This distinctive breed is another relatively recent development, discovered by chance in Devonshire, England, in 1960. They are characterized by their short, wavy coat, slender bodies, and strikingly large ears. Like the Sphynx and Oriental Shorthair, Devon Rex cats are often considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coat. However, their short fur can become oily, requiring regular baths to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
Weight: 7–12 pounds
Lifespan: 9–15 years
4. Burmese
If you’re looking for a cat that will be your constant shadow, the Burmese is a breed to consider. These exceptionally affectionate cats crave attention and are known for their unwavering devotion to their owners. A Burmese will rarely leave your side, whether you’re tackling household chores, preparing meals, or relaxing on the couch. They are always ready to be involved and to offer their loving companionship.
Burmese cats are also bundles of playful energy, retaining a kitten-like spirit well into adulthood. They are highly interactive and thrive on playtime, making them wonderful companions for children. Like other social breeds, Burmese cats are not happy when left alone for long periods and can become despondent if they lack sufficient human interaction.
While primarily indoor cats, Burmese may enjoy supervised outdoor time in a secure enclosure. Their short coat is low-maintenance, requiring minimal grooming and shedding very little. They are often considered hypoallergenic, making them a potentially good choice for allergy sufferers.
Weight: 8–14 pounds
Lifespan: 12–18 years
5. Siamese
As one of the oldest and most recognizable pedigreed cat breeds, the Siamese has been captivating cat lovers since the 19th century. Their striking appearance and engaging personalities have cemented their enduring popularity. Siamese cats are intelligent, playful, and energetic, balanced by their affectionate and sociable nature. They are known for being quite vocal, often “talking” to their owners and expressing their needs and desires. Siamese cats thrive on attention and are not shy about demanding it, following their humans around and engaging them in conversation. Unsurprisingly, they also dislike being left alone for extended periods.
While they can be content as indoor cats, Siamese cats appreciate having access to a secure outdoor space, such as a catio or enclosed garden, where they can explore and play. Their short coat is easy to care for, requiring only weekly brushing to minimize hairballs.
A sleek Siamese cat with blue almond-shaped eyes sitting and looking elegant.
Regarding their hypoallergenic status, the Siamese breed presents a mixed picture. While some individuals with allergies report fewer reactions to Siamese cats, others experience typical allergy symptoms. They may be a tolerable option for those with mild cat allergies, but it’s best to spend time with a Siamese cat before committing to adoption if allergies are a concern.
Weight: 5–8 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
6. Bengal
The Bengal cat, with its striking wild appearance, is a captivating breed that combines beauty with an adventurous spirit. Friendly, loving, and highly active, Bengals are not typically lap cats but thrive on interaction and play. Their intelligence and curiosity make them highly adaptable to different environments, even bustling and noisy households. Notably, Bengals often have a fascination with water, sometimes even joining their owners in the shower!
Bengals are excellent family pets, getting along well with children and other animals. However, their high energy levels mean they require plenty of enrichment and playtime. They are best suited to indoor living with ample opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. If you are frequently away from home, the Bengal might not be the ideal choice, as they thrive on interaction and can become bored without sufficient attention.
The Bengal’s wild appearance is a direct result of its origins as a hybrid breed, created by crossing Asian Leopard Cats with domestic cats. Modern Bengals are bred Bengal to Bengal, but their lineage still contributes to their unique look and energetic nature. It’s important to check local regulations before considering a Bengal, as some areas have restrictions or bans on hybrid breeds.
Most Bengals have short coats that require minimal grooming. They shed moderately and are sometimes considered hypoallergenic by some allergy sufferers, though individual reactions can vary. Despite their moderate weight, their muscular build gives them a larger appearance than many other domestic cat breeds.
Weight: 8–15 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
7. Abyssinian
Hailing from Ethiopia, historically known as Abyssinia, this breed boasts a long and fascinating history as one of the oldest cat breeds. Abyssinians are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and inquisitive nature. Always eager for adventure, they love to explore their surroundings and participate in household activities. While not known for being cuddly lap cats, Abyssinians are affectionate and loyal companions, forming strong bonds with their families and getting along well with children and other pets.
A ruddy Abyssinian cat with ticked fur, sitting and looking alert with large ears.
Abyssinians thrive as primarily indoor cats. If outdoor access is provided, it should be within a secure, properly constructed enclosure to ensure their safety. To prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues, Abyssinians need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, including toys, climbing structures, and interactive playtime with their owners.
The Abyssinian’s short, ticked coat requires minimal grooming and sheds very little. While not generally classified as hypoallergenic, their low shedding may make them a more tolerable option for individuals with mild cat allergies.
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
8. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a breed known for its easygoing nature and adaptability. Chill, playful, and content in various living environments, they are a versatile choice for many households. Affectionate yet independent, American Shorthairs are capable of entertaining themselves and don’t demand constant attention. Their gentle temperament makes them ideal family pets, patient with children and compatible with other pets.
Unlike some more clingy breeds, the American Shorthair values its independence and isn’t particularly fond of being carried. They will happily cuddle on your lap when they choose to, but on their own terms. They are generally low-maintenance and undemanding companions.
American Shorthairs are best kept indoors to protect them from outdoor dangers and to prevent them from disturbing local wildlife. While they are relatively clean cats requiring minimal bathing, their short, thick coat does benefit from weekly brushing to manage shedding, especially during seasonal shedding periods. American Shorthairs are not considered hypoallergenic due to their moderate to heavy shedding.
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
9. Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is often described as the “lazy person’s Persian” due to its similar gentle and sweet nature but with a much easier-to-manage coat. This breed is a delightful mix of Persian and American Shorthair traits, resulting in a calm and affectionate companion suitable for a wide range of owners. Exotic Shorthairs are playful as kittens, gradually mellowing out as they mature, making them a good fit for less active families and households with older pets. They are not overly demanding of exercise and are content with moderate playtime.
One of the most endearing features of the Exotic Shorthair is their perpetually kitten-like face, which retains its adorable charm throughout their lives. Their personality is similar to that of a Persian, being quiet, gentle, and devoted to their owners. They adapt well to apartment living or larger homes and are more focused on human companionship than exploring their surroundings.
A cream Exotic Shorthair cat with a flat face and large round eyes, looking directly at the camera.
Exotic Shorthairs are primarily indoor cats. Their short, dense double coat requires less grooming than a Persian’s long fur, but they do shed moderately, particularly during seasonal changes, and are not considered hypoallergenic.
Weight: 10–15 pounds
Lifespan: Up to 15 years
10. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a quintessential family cat, known for its easygoing temperament and quiet demeanor. They strike a perfect balance between sociability and independence, offering affection without being overly needy. British Shorthairs are moderately active, enjoying playtime but not requiring excessive exercise. They are happy to cuddle on your lap when they are in the mood, but prefer to be approached on their own terms and are not fond of being carried around.
This breed typically gets along well with people of all ages, including children, and is generally tolerant of other pets. British Shorthairs are adaptable to various living situations, content in apartments or houses. They can enjoy both indoor and outdoor environments, but if allowed outdoors, they should be kept in a secure cat garden or enclosure for their safety.
True to their name, the British Shorthair has a short, plush coat that is relatively low-maintenance. While they shed moderately, regular brushing is usually sufficient to keep their coat healthy. They are not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
Weight: 7–17 pounds
Lifespan: 12–16 years
11. Scottish Fold
Instantly recognizable for their distinctive folded ears, giving them an owl-like appearance, the Scottish Fold is a breed with a sweet and gentle personality to match. They are known for their easygoing and adaptable nature. While sociable and friendly with everyone, Scottish Folds tend to form a particularly strong bond with their primary owner, becoming deeply attached and devoted companions. They are affectionate with people and other pets, but prefer gentle handling.
Scottish Folds are well-suited to city living, adapting readily to apartment life and tolerating loud noises. They are content in smaller spaces as well as larger homes. If left alone for extended periods, especially in quieter households, they can become lonely, so providing companionship, whether human or feline, is important. Keeping them indoors is generally recommended for their safety.
A grey Scottish Fold cat with folded ears, sitting upright and looking directly at the camera.
The Scottish Fold has a short, dense coat that sheds moderately. Weekly brushing can help prevent hairballs. They are not considered a hypoallergenic breed. Due to their unique genetic trait causing folded ears, Scottish Folds are prone to certain health issues, so it’s crucial to obtain them from reputable breeders who prioritize health and responsible breeding practices.
Weight: 6–14 pounds
Lifespan: 11–14 years
12. Birman
The Birman is a truly gentle and sweet-natured cat breed. Their quiet, friendly, and relaxed personalities, combined with their tendency to bond deeply with one person in particular, make them exceptional companions for single individuals. However, their affectionate nature extends to all humans, making them equally wonderful family pets. Birmans are not overly demanding of attention or playtime, and they are known to be excellent lap cats, enjoying quiet cuddles and affection.
Birmans adapt well to both apartment living and larger houses. They enjoy a balance of indoor and outdoor time. If allowed outdoors, it should be in a secure enclosure to ensure their safety. Their medium-long, silky coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, lacking a dense undercoat that can lead to matting. However, they are not hypoallergenic due to moderate shedding.
Fun fact: The Ragdoll breed, featured next on our list, was originally developed using Birman cats in its breeding program.
Weight: 6–15 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
13. Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is aptly named for its tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up, just like a rag doll. These large and gentle cats are known for their mild-mannered, easygoing, affectionate, and friendly personalities. Ragdolls are cuddle enthusiasts, relishing attention and physical affection. Petting, belly rubs, and gentle handling are all welcomed by this loving breed.
Ragdolls are social butterflies, enjoying the company of their owners and often following them around the house. They are wonderful with children and other pets, thriving in multi-pet households. Remarkably trainable, Ragdolls can learn tricks like fetching and often greet their owners at the door upon their return home. Despite their adventurous spirit, their trusting nature makes them best suited to indoor living.
The Ragdoll’s long, soft, single coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, resisting matting and requiring less grooming than some other long-haired breeds. However, they are not considered hypoallergenic. Ragdolls are truly beautiful cats, both inside and out.
Weight: Most weigh between 14–18 pounds, but some may go beyond 20 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
14. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is often referred to as the “gentle giant” of the cat world, and for good reason. This large and impressive breed is known for its playful and intelligent personality, making them wonderful companions. Maine Coons are remarkably trainable, often exhibiting dog-like behaviors. They are attentive to their owners but not overly clingy, and while affectionate, they are not typically lap cats.
This popular breed is known for its love of people, including children, and generally gets along well with other pets. Maine Coons are relatively independent and can entertain themselves, making them a good choice for households where owners are away from home during the day.
A large brown tabby Maine Coon cat with long fur, standing and looking majestic.
Maine Coons can adapt to both indoor and outdoor living, but require ample space to explore and play, regardless of their environment. Many owners recommend providing them with safe outdoor access, such as a secure catio or enclosed garden. Their long, double coat, with a water-resistant outer layer, requires consistent grooming, at least weekly, to prevent matting. Maine Coons are not a hypoallergenic breed.
Weight: Most weigh 8–20 pounds, but they can also go up to 30 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
15. Persian
Renowned for their exquisite beauty, the Persian cat has been a beloved breed for decades. They are known for their affectionate and quiet nature, coupled with a sweet and gentle temperament that makes them ideal for cuddling. Persians are generally calm and get along well with everyone, including other pets, but thrive best in peaceful and predictable environments.
Often described as “couch potato cats,” Persians are content to relax in the same spot for hours on end. They are best suited to indoor living to prevent overheating, and adapt well to both apartments and larger homes. Before bringing a Persian home, it’s always wise to check with your landlord regarding pet policies to ensure a smooth transition.
As a purebred breed, Persians are predisposed to certain health issues. Their thick, long, and luxurious double coat requires daily brushing to prevent knots and matting. Unfortunately, they shed moderately, with seasonal increases, and are not considered hypoallergenic.
Weight: 7–12 pounds
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Cats truly are remarkable creatures, and the best cat breeds showcased here demonstrate the wide range of personalities and traits available. Far from being aloof or unfriendly, these breeds are loving, affectionate, and thrive on human companionship. Some even actively crave it!
If you’re considering adding a pet to your life, we encourage you to explore the wonderful world of cats. With proper care, love, and attention, a feline companion will enrich your life immeasurably. Consider teaching them a few tricks – you might be surprised at how intelligent and trainable cats can be. You’ll gain not just a pet, but a devoted friend and companion for years to come.
