11 Friendliest Cat Breeds (With Pictures)
Updated on
There are many different breeds of cats, and each one has its own personality. Some people may prefer a feisty cat that loves to play, while others may prefer a calm and docile cat. Some might prefer a cat that is more independent, while others might prefer a cat that is more friendly and social. There are many reasons why people love cats, but one of the most endearing qualities of cats is their friendliness.
There’s something special about the bond between humans and cats, and when a cat is especially friendly, it only makes that bond stronger. All cats like to be petted and scratched, but some cats take it a step further and become bona fide lap cats. Friendly cats are always happy to see us. They come running when they hear our voice or see our silhouette in the doorway, or they will purr or nuzzle their human companions when they’re being affectionate. Here is a list of the friendliest cat breeds.
Before You Start
There are many different factors to consider when selecting a cat breed. Some of the most important include your lifestyle, living situation, and personality. Some breeds are better suited for homes with children while others are more independent and prefer to be left alone. Selecting a friendly cat is not a good idea if you are never home. Friendly cats need interaction with their human companions and might become depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time.
Felines who require regular interaction with their human guardians in order to remain healthy and happy may even become destructive without regular attention. So don’t just pick a friendly cat breed because you like the idea of getting loving attention: you must also have love—and time—to give your friendly cat. It is important to do your research before you decide on a breed of cat and to find one that will really fit your lifestyle. Now, let’s find out all about the friendliest cat breeds.
The 11 Friendliest Cat Breeds
1. Maine Coon
Because of their large size and tufts on their paws and ears, Maine Coons are known as the gentle giants of cats. Despite their size, they’re friendly with other cats, people, children, and dogs. Generally, they like to cuddle up to you and show their love with chirps, trills, and other sounds. They’re also pretty intelligent and people often say they’re like dogs because they can learn basic commands.
Water is also a big love for the Maine Coon, so don’t be surprised if you see it playing in the shower or the water bowl! Their size and characters make them something truly special among felines.
2. Siamese
Siamese cats have striking blue eyes and are known for their loving nature and inquisitive personalities. The Siamese cat is one of the most popular in the world and they’re very vocal—whatever they’re doing, they want to talk to you while they’re doing it. These cats make a lot of different sounds, and they’ll meow at you to get your attention. Siamese cats are also extremely loyal and affectionate. It’s likely they’ll become attached to the people in the house, though they may be wary of strangers. Additionally, the Siamese does well with other cats since they help them burn off energy and reduce their anxiety.
3. Abyssinians
Abyssinian cats are known for their outgoing and active personalities. They are highly playful and love to explore their surroundings. Abyssinians also tend to be very vocal and are often quite talkative. They are extremely intelligent and can be quite demanding of attention. Abyssinians make great companions and are ideally suited for households with active families, and have a unique personality that is often described as “busy.”
They are always on the go, always playing, and always exploring. They are highly active cats and love to be around people. They are also very affectionate and love to cuddle. Abyssinians are typically very friendly and sociable cats, and they make great pets for families with children.
4. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are a specific breed of cat characterized by their relaxed and floppy body posture. The personality of a Ragdoll is typically laid-back and docile, making them a popular pet choice. The Ragdoll is good with both other cats and dogs. They are known for being gentle and tolerant of children and any other pets, making them an ideal addition to any family.
They are well suited to families with babies and seniors because of their gentle nature. Even though they can be playful, they’re not overly active. It’s more comfortable for them to be on the ground than climbing your furniture. Not every friendly cat needs to be a daredevil!
5. Sphynx
Sphynx cats are known for their unique personality. They are extremely social and interactive and love to be around people and spend time with their owners. They are typically very affectionate and will often head-butt their owner for attention. They are also very playful and love to play fetch, chase a laser pointer, or explore their surroundings.
Sphynx cats are very intelligent and can be easily trained to do tricks. They are also very vocal and will often chatter or meow when they want something. All of these characteristics make them quite charming to be around. Those who give their hearts to a Sphynx have their affection returned tenfold.
6. Persians
Persian cats are typically docile, laid-back animals that enjoy being around their people. They are typically not as active as other breeds of cats and can even be lazy at times. Persian cats are known for their gentle personalities and often enjoy simply being petted and cuddled. They typically get along well with other pets in the home and usually make good indoor companions. Persian cats are known for their loving natures and typically make great lap cats. They are also usually quite playful and enjoy spending time with their families. Persians are often quite vocal and can be quite talkative, particularly when they want something.
7. Burmese
Burmese cats are typically friendly and outgoing, are generally very active. They enjoy playing and being around their people and tend to be very social and curious. Burmese cats are typically known for their extremely personable personalities. They are also typically quite vocal, often meowing or chirping to get your attention. They are also playful and enjoy playing games with their families plus typically get along well with other family pets, too. Those who own Burmese are often deeply charmed by their loyalty and affection.
8. Birman
Perhaps not as popular as many of the other cats on our list, Birman cats are known for their striking blue eyes and white fur with pointed ears and tails. They are a mellow breed that loves to be around people and usually has a very friendly personality. Birmans are good with children and other pets, making them a great choice for a family pet. They are intelligent and easy to train and love to play fetch or chase around a laser pointer.
Birmans are known for their gentle personality and their love of family. They are typically not as active as other breeds of cats, preferring to relax on a comfortable surface. Birmans are also known for their intelligence.
9. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic shorthairs, as their name suggests, are a breed of cat that is a cross between a shorthaired domestic cat and an exotic wildcat. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities and make great pets for people who want a cat that is both playful and affectionate. Exotic shorthair cats are known for their fun-loving and personable personalities. They are typically very active and enjoy playing games, chasing toys, and jumping around.
Many people describe them as being “clowns” of the cat world, as they love to entertain their owners and make them laugh. Exotics are also very affectionate and often seek out human companionship, wanting to be near their people as much as possible.
10. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are a breed of domesticated cat with a natural mutation that causes their ears to fold forward and down. Scottish fold cats are known for their friendly personalities and laid-back demeanors. They are typically docile and easygoing, making them great companions for people of all ages. These cats often seek out human companionship and often follow their owners around the house.
They make good pets for people who live in apartments or small homes, as they are low-maintenance and do not require a lot of space. Scottish Folds are also very curious and will explore everything around them. They are typically very relaxed cats and rarely get into trouble.
11. Chartreux
The Chartreux is known for being a very docile and mellow breed of cat. They are typically shy around strangers but once they are comfortable with someone, they are very loyal and loving companions. Chartreux cats have a reputation for being great hunters, and they love to play fetch with their owners. They are also very clean animals and tend to groom themselves often. They are typically not as active as some other breeds of cats, but they do enjoy playing and exploring.
Chartreux cats are also very good with children and other animals, making them great pets for families. They aren’t loud or showy, but they are friendly and loving in abundance to make up for it.
Conclusion
A friendly and affectionate cat can be found within any breed or mix, so do not fret if your kitty’s breed is not on the list. When selecting a cat breed, it is important to consult with your shelter, vet, or breeder to get advice on what might be the best fit for your individual lifestyle and personality. Different breeds of cats have different temperaments and needs, so it is important to do your research before making a decision. For example, Siamese cats are known for being very active and vocal, while Persians are known for being more laid-back and docile. We hope you’ve found the perfect friendly cat to bring love and joy into your life.
See Also:
- Himalayan Cat vs. Siamese Cat: Key Differences (With Pictures)
- 11 Great Indoor Cat Breeds (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: rock-the-stock, Shutterstock
