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15 Most Independent Cat Breeds (With Info & Pictures)

Jessica Kim

By Jessica Kim

persian cat circling on a table near the window

While cats have a reputation for being aloof and non-relational, different cat breeds actually have varying temperaments that make them very distinct and unique from each other. Some cat breeds are known to be needy while others are more independent. Independent cats are good for first-time cat owners, individuals with busy lifestyles, or individuals with mobility issues because they have relatively low care needs and don’t mind being left alone for extended periods.

So, if you’re looking for a pet that shows affection but also doesn’t mind having their own alone time, an independent cat can be a good fit for you. Our list has information on some of the most independent cat breeds, and one of them could potentially become your next pet.

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The 15 Most Independent Cat Breeds

1. Abyssinian

Abyssinian Blue Cat sitting on the arm of a sofa
Image By: Foonia, Shutterstock

Abyssinians are very intelligent and curious cats, and they tend to have a lot of confidence. So, rather than demanding your attention, they often prefer exploring their surroundings. These cats often do well when you hide food or treats around the house for them to “hunt” and discover.

Abyssinians do tend to develop strong loyalty ties to one or two people and often enjoy playing lively games with them. However, since they’re pretty active, they’ll be pretty content to play on their own as long as you establish a cat-friendly home that has plenty of spaces for them to climb and jump on.


2. American Shorthair

cream american shorthair
Image By: studiogala, Shutterstock

American Shorthairs are descendants of European cats that traveled across the Atlantic on the Mayflower. The long history that these cats have with humans shows that they’re very resilient and independent. While many American Shorthairs are known to be very affectionate with their owners, they do well by themselves and don’t mind spending time alone. They also have relatively low grooming and care needs, so they’re excellent for people with busier lifestyles and novice cat owners.


3. American Wirehair

American Wirehair cat
Image Credit: Boyloso, Shutterstock

American Wirehairs are New York natives with laid-back personalities. These cats have a mind of their own and don’t tend to be demanding of their humans. While they’ll love to play with people, they also enjoy playing alone with their toys.

Another great thing about American Wirehairs is that they tend to form strong bonds with all of their family members. They often enjoy hanging out and lounging with their owners after a long day. So, you have the best of both worlds, having an independent cat that also enjoys cuddling and being around people.


4. Bengal

seal mink bengal cat
Image By: K Lim, Shutterstock

Bengals have an exotic appearance and are very athletic and active. They’re not the most social cats and tend to form a strong bond with one or two people. In general, Bengals do well being by themselves and playing on their own. However, it’s important to provide plenty of exercise outlets and mentally stimulating toys to prevent boredom and engaging in destructive behaviors.

It’ll be beneficial to have at least one cat tree for your Bengal and several vertical spaces that it can jump and climb on. As long as you have a cat-friendly, stimulating environment for your Bengal, they’ll be content playing on their own and keeping themselves out of trouble.


5. Birman

Birman cat on the floor
Image By: Daydream Photographie, Shutterstock

Birmans are beautiful cats with mild temperaments. They have go-with-the-flow personalities and aren’t known to be demanding. Birmans are social and don’t mind meeting new people, but they don’t really get too stressed out if they’re left home alone. They’re uniquely flexible as cats and are easy to please. Despite having long hair, they don’t require too much extra grooming and just may need some brushing once in a while to prevent their coats from tangling.


6. British Shorthair

golden british shorthair cat lying on bed
Image By: Katrin Baidimirova, Shutterstock

British Shorthairs are the ambiverts of the cat world. They can be playful, but they’re not needy or constantly begging for your attention. They’re not timid and are usually friendly towards strangers, but they also don’t mind being left alone and having their alone time. They might become lap cats, but they won’t try to distract you from work or any tasks you have to complete. British Shorthairs really just seem to enjoy living in the moment and are content with spending time with you. They also don’t mind if you leave them home alone for several hours.


7. Himalayan

Himalayan cat
Image Credit: No-longer-here, Pixabay

Himalayans are wonderful pets that can adapt to many different lifestyles. While they prefer being lap cats, they don’t mind being left alone. They’re also known to be social with other cats, so they can benefit from having another cat in the house and will enjoy their company, especially when you’re out of the house. Himalayans are particularly quiet and aren’t known to be demanding. However, they do enjoy human interaction, so make sure that you do give your Himalayan plenty of attention when you’re at home.


8. Manx

manx cat
Image Credit: PradaBrown, Shutterstock

Manxes have sweet temperaments but often have a strong independent side. These cats are intelligent, active, and curious, so you may notice that they disappear on their own for extended periods of time. Manxes can go on their own adventures and they’re also great hunters, so if you have one as an outdoor cat, you may just see them at night when they return home to rest.

While they’re independent, Manxes are also highly loyal to their families. So, don’t be surprised if they follow you around from room to room whenever you’re home.


9. Norwegian Forest Cat

beautiful norwegian forest cat tortoiseshell sitting in garden in a summer evening
Image Credit: ElisaPutti, Shutterstock

Norwegian Forest Cats are gentle giants with sweet and calm personalities. These relaxed and chill cats are adaptable to many different kinds of lifestyles, and they’re usually good with children and other pets.

Norwegian Forest Cats do love human interaction and crave attention, but they’re not very demanding. They can wait for you to approach them and give them all the pets and play sessions that they want. They won’t complain if you leave the house, but just make sure to give them plenty of attention when you return home.


10. Ocicat

Ocicat,Adult,Cat,Lookin,In,Lens
Image Credit: bez_bretelky, Shutterstock

Ocicats may have an exotic appearance, but they are completely domesticated and don’t have any wild cat DNA in their genetic makeup. Ocicats are very active and intelligent, so it’s important to provide plenty of toys and create fun playing areas for them in your home. They’re also very confident and adaptable, so they don’t mind being left alone.

However, Ocicats are known to be social and don’t like being home alone for too many hours a day. So, if you do have a busier lifestyle, an Ocicat in your home will benefit greatly from having a cat companion.


11. Persian

Persian cat looking out the window
Image Credit: NTP_RASTA, Shutterstock

Persians are affectionate cats that enjoy human companionship. However, they also don’t mind if you leave them alone for a while. These cats have pretty calm temperaments, so you don’t have to worry too much about them being too nosy and opening cabinets or knocking things off your counters. They usually prefer napping in quiet and cozy areas. Persians will always welcome your attention, but they’re not so demanding that they’ll pester you if they feel your attention is too divided.


12. Ragdoll

ragdoll cat under the couch
Image Credit: jsphotography289, Shutterstock

Ragdolls are another breed of gentle giants. They’re affectionate cats, but they’re not very vocal or demanding. These cats are so sweet that when they’re held, they tend to go limp, which is how they got their name. They also tend to stay pretty low to the ground, so they’re ideal pets for older adults or people who have mobility issues.

Owners of Ragdolls just have to make sure that they’re giving their cats plenty of attention and are attuned to their needs because these cats are very quiet. They usually won’t make much noise unless something is significantly bothering them.


13. Russian Blue

Russian-Blue-cat-with-green-eyes
Image Credit: Popova Lena, Shutterstock

Russian Blues are independent cats that also have low grooming needs, so they’re a great pet for people with busier lifestyles. These cats take time to warm up to strangers and tend to form strong bonds with just one or two people. Once they become comfortable in your home, they will be playful and show you a lot of affection. However, don’t be surprised if your Russian Blue never ends up becoming a lap cat.

Russian Blues can be pretty vocal, so they will let you know when they need food, water, or attention. So, it’s pretty easy to live with a Russian Blue because they will let you know when they need some attention or when they prefer to be alone.


14. Scottish Fold

scottish fold Bicolor
Image Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock

Scottish Folds are another calm and easy-going cat breed. They love human interaction, but they’re not known to be demanding or pushy about receiving attention. These cats also don’t have particularly active lifestyles, so they’re pretty content with lounging around. If anything, you’ll have to be on top of encouraging your Scottish Fold to exercise to prevent excessive weight gain.

Scottish Folds are also pretty laid back and don’t mind living with other pets. So, they could benefit from living with another cat, especially if you have a busy lifestyle.


15. Somali

a portrait of ruddy somali cat
Image Credit: Nataliya Kuznetsova, Shutterstock

Somalis are very energetic and playful cats. So, they’re not the best cat for novice cat owners because they require a lot of exercise and stimulation. However, they can be independent as long as your home is designed in a way that they can thrive.

Somalis need a lot of vertical spaces and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. Be prepared to install cat trees, shelves, hammocks, and window perches if you plan to bring home a Somali. When you’re able to create a fun living space for a Somali, they can be left alone and keep themselves entertained. It may also be helpful to have another cat with a calmer personality at home to keep them company.

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Conclusion

No matter how independent a cat is, it’s still important to give them plenty of attention and make sure that they’re not left home alone for too long and too frequently. Cats still need human interaction and attention. Some just may not need as much as others.

So, even if you do end up living with an independent cat, make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for them to exercise, play, and interact with you. This is excellent for a cat’s health and well-being, and it’ll also help establish and strengthen the bond that you share together.


Featured Image Credit: ANURAK PONGPATIMET, Shutterstock

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