Several types of cats consistently rank among the Cat Fanciers’ Association’s list of top breeds. These cat breeds tend to be quite friendly, affectionate, and playful. And many can adapt to a variety of household situations, including living with children and other pets. Some of these breeds are more active than others. And some need more social time than others. So you’re sure to find one that suits your individual lifestyle.
If you are looking for a tried-and-true companion, here are 10 of the most popular cat breeds for all types of households.
Tip
It’s important to remember that every cat has a unique personality within its breed. You can find many of these popular cat breeds at animal shelters, where you’ll be able to spend time with individual cats and get to know their temperaments.
Abyssinian
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The Abyssinian also referred to as the Aby, is a lively and active cat. Many Abyssinians even love water, and most will spend their days climbing and exploring in your home. Be prepared to provide plenty of interactive play for an Aby, and you will be rewarded with a lifetime of loyalty.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 8 to 12 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Tall, pointy ears; wedge-shaped head; slender and muscular body
back to menu ↑American Shorthair
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The American shorthair, the pedigreed version of the domestic shorthair, is a fairly low-maintenance pet. These cats are hardy, easygoing, and largely tolerant of whatever life throws their way. And if they receive proper socialization from a young age, many American shorthairs can get along well with children, strangers, and other pets.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 10 to 15 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Athletic build; short, dense coat
back to menu ↑British Shorthair
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The British shorthair is considered to be the oldest natural cat breed from England. While moderately active, British shorthairs are ideal household cats and can be comfortable with children and other pets. They’re generally not lapping cats, but most are quite affectionate and prefer to be near their favorite humans.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 12 to 14 inches
WEIGHT: 7 to 17 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Large head; round eyes; well-balanced body
back to menu ↑Exotic
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Purple Collar Pet Photography / Getty Images
The exotic has been dubbed “the lazy man’s Persian” because it’s similar to the Persian cat in its sweet looks but has a coat that requires much less maintenance. Brushing or combing once a week is typically all it takes to keep the coat free of tangles. Exotics tend to be laid-back, loving lap cats, but they have a playful side, too.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 10 to 12 inches
WEIGHT: 10 to 12 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Short legs; rounded body; short nose
back to menu ↑Maine Coon
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Nina Pearman / Getty Images
Contrary to folklore, the Maine coon isn’t the result of a cat breeding with a raccoon. It’s most likely a cross between an American domestic cat and a longhaired foreign cat. Maine coons have a “gentle giant” reputation and are generally comfortable around children and other pets. They are highly affectionate and engaged with their favorite humans, but they typically don’t demand attention.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 10 to 16 inches
WEIGHT: 10 to 25 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Muscular build; thick, heavy coat
back to menu ↑Persian
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Benjamin Torode / Getty Images
With their flowing coat, sweet face, and affectionate disposition, it’s no wonder Persians are one of the most popular cat breeds. Persians prefer a calm, predictable environment and do best in quiet households. Their coats must be combed daily to prevent tangles as well as bathed weekly to keep them shiny and clean.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 7 to 12 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Long coat; short, stocky legs; large, round eyes
back to menu ↑Ragdoll
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Ragdoll cats got their name because of their tendency to relax and go limp in a person’s arms. These cats adore their humans and will follow them from room to room. They are often very tolerant with children and other pets, and they can be quite playful. They have a moderate energy level, and many are even willing to walk on a leash for exercise.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 9 to 11 inches
WEIGHT: 8 to 20 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Blue eyes; semi-longhaired coat
back to menu ↑Scottish Fold
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Nico De Pasquale Photography / Getty Images
While the Scottish fold typically has ears that fold forward (a genetic mutation), the occasional kitten will have straight ears. In fact, all Scottish fold kittens are born with straight ears, which begin to bend forward after a few months. These cats are generally affectionate and easygoing, and they can adapt well to various living situations. They prefer to be around their favorite humans and love a good game of fetch.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 6 to 14 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Round body; large, round eyes; folded ears
back to menu ↑Siamese
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Jovana Rikalo / Stocksy United
Siamese cats, fondly known as “Meezers,” are one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds. These cats tend to be curious, intelligent, and rather chatty. They will “talk” to their humans day and night to express their opinions and demand attention. They also need lots of entertainment from interactive toys or even on-leash walks, or they might seek out their own games, such as turning on faucets.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 8 to 10 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Sleek body; almond-shaped eyes; wedge-shaped head
back to menu ↑Sphynx
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The Sphynx is another highly recognizable and popular cat breed, thanks to its hairless body and prominent features. These cats tend to be intelligent, curious, and easygoing. They often love meeting new people and can do well with children and other pets. But they do need to be kept warm due to their lack of coat, and their skin needs regular bathing to remove excess oil.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches
WEIGHT: 10 to 12 pounds
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Hairless; wrinkled head; lean build
