Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

17 Friendliest Cat Breeds (With Info & Pictures)

Share

Scottish fold cat with siamese cat are sitting_Witsawat.s_shutterstock

We’ve all heard horror stories of people who bring cats into their homes that simply want nothing to do with them. You try to convince the cat to play with you or let you pet them but they want no part of it. Luckily, that doesn’t have to always be the case. Yes, there are cats out there that enjoy the company of people. You’ll even find that some prefer being with people. Take a look below at the 17 friendliest cat breeds so you can find the perfect feline partner for you.

divider 1 paws

The 17 Friendly Cat Breeds

1. Maine Coon

ginger-Maine-coon-cat-on-the-balcony
Image Credit: Meriluxa, Shutterstock

As the largest domestic cat breed, Maine Coons look a bit intimidating but are one of the friendliest breeds out there. These lovable balls of fluff are big babies that love spending time with their owners. You can even have adventures with these kitties as they love the water and doing whatever you’re up for.


2. Ragdolls

Ragdoll British Shorthair
Image Credit: Bianka Kovacs, Shutterstock

Nothing is more adorable than the blue-eyed Ragdoll cat. These kitties love their owners and are known for following them around the house in the same fashion as a dog. Ragdolls even enjoy being carried around. This breed got their name due to the way these cats go limp in their owner’s arms when being held.


3. Abyssinian

abyssinian cat resting in carpet
Image Credit: tsapenkodg, Pixabay

Also known as the Aby, Abyssinians are a cat breed that hails from Ethiopia. The different colored hair bands of these cats are quite unique. What’s even more appealing is their reputation of being the class clowns of the cat world. These are some of the friendliest cats around and love to have fun.


4. Burmese

burmese cats lying on sofa
Image Credit: Sergey Neanderthalec, Shutterstock

The Burmese are a close relative of the Siamese. These cats are quite loving and friendly. They are known to be people-oriented. They even enjoy playtimes and hang onto their kitten-like tendencies well into their adult years.


5. Birman

Birman cat kitten with beautiful blue eyes lying on the floor
Image Credit: Daydream Photographie, Shutterstock

The Birman is a beautiful colorpoint cat breed with blue eyes. These cats are known for being very calm, cool, and collected. Birman are friendly cats that enjoy their humans but like to watch their surroundings from high perches. Oddly, these cats nearly went extinct during World War II but were rejuvenated by breeders.


6. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex kitten
Image Credit: Elena Loginova, Shutterstock

Considered a new cat breed, the Cornish Rex originated in the United Kingdom in the 1950s. These cute kitties are hairless yet covered in a fine downy fuzz. They are also known as cuddlers that prefer lying with their owners and being affectionate.


7. Chartreux

Chartreux
Image Credit: congerdesign, Pixabay

Hailing from France, the Chartreux is a rare cat breed with short legs and strong bodies. These cats are great with people and children. They are even playful throughout most of their lives. When you look at these cats, the shape of their heads even makes you think they are smiling.


8. Manx

manx-lying-on-the-floor
Image Credit: TheMetalDroid, Shutterstock

The Manx is often known for their lush, prized coat. There’s more to these cats, however. Manx are very family-oriented cats. They bond closely with their families but aren’t very open to strangers.


9. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic-shorthair-cat-focusing-in-the-foreground
Image Credit: Wutlufaipy, Shutterstock

The Exotic Shorthair is often compared to the Persian thanks to the shape of their head and their large eyes. These cats are quite friendly and gentle. They are also a very playful cat breed at times. However, due to their tendency to bond with their owners, these cats aren’t fans of being left alone.


10. Persian

Persian cat and a pile of shedded cat hair
Image Credit: DreamBig, Shutterstock

We’ve mentioned the Persian, so let’s take a look at these beautiful and friendly cats. Having been around for the last 400 years, Persians are a popular breed with thick fur. These cats enjoy lounging around the house with their owners and can be playful friends to the household.


11. Munchkins

white munchkin cat outdoor
Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

All of us know the Munchkin breed and their adorable short legs. But did you know these cats are open, friendly, and enjoy their owner’s company? They also have lots of fun playing and rushing around the house.


12. Russian Blue

Russian Blue Cat eating
Image Credit: slawomir.gawryluk, Shutterstock

This breed’s name gives away their origin and color. However, they are also extremely intelligent and friendly. Russian Blues can remember faces. If they like you, they’ll rush to greet you.


13. Ragamuffin

Ragamuffin cat hiding
Image Credit: Ryo Nagashima, Shutterstock

The name may give away the fact that Ragamuffins are a bit lazy. Yes, these gorgeous cats that come in many colors prefer lounging around to being active. The thing is, they also prefer to do this lounging with you.


14. Scottish Fold

orange scottish fold with striped bandana
Image Credit: Kajohnwat Srikulthanakij, Shutterstock

These adorable cats are known for having ears that fold. What you may not know about them is just how precious and affectionate they are. Yes, Scottish Folds are loving cats that enjoy their owner’s company.


15. Siamese

Seal Point Siamese cat standing on white background
Image Credit: Nynke van Holten, Shutterstock

The Siamese is easily one of the best-known cats in the world. These pointed cats have a popular look, but did you know they also love people? It’s true. Siamese are known for being loving and affectionate with their owners.


16. Sphynx

sphynx cat with curly tail
Image by: Igor Lukin, Pixabay

The Sphynx is a popular hairless cat that is constantly struggling to get warm. This makes them huge snugglers. Sphynx love cuddling under blankets and spending time anywhere with their owners. Yes, body heat helps with the warming. If you have a Sphynx, be prepared to have these cats on your lap constantly.


17. Somali

somali cat with green eyes
Image Credit: Louno Morose, Shutterstock

A distant relative of the Abyssinian, the Somali has a bushy tail and looks a lot like a fox. What makes these cats even more unique is that each strand of hair has 20 different colors on it. These cats are extremely loving of their owners. More often than not, they try to stay within only a few feet of where their owners are.

divider 1 paws

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a loving and friendly cat, the 17 on this list are the perfect candidates. Each of these cat breeds has something unique that will draw you to them. What they all share, however, is their friendly nature and love of their owners.

See Also: 


Featured Image Credit: rossiaa33, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything cat

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.




How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


Catster's Digital Magazine is Back!

Vet-approved health & behavior advice

Real cat stories & community features

Chatting With Dr. Matt McGlasson About Special Needs Kitties, Social Media Fame, and Rating Cat Toe Beans | Chatty Cattys, Episode 32

In this episode of Catster’s Chatty Cattys podcast, Dr. Karyn and Nicole sit down with a very special guest: veterinarian and social media...

Does Your Cat Need A Friend? How to Tell If Your Cat Is Lonely

Cats have a reputation for being perfectly happy on their own – independent, self-sufficient, and solitary. But, like many stereotypes, this one does...

Proof That Moving Cats Indoors Is Easier Than You Think

We know that indoor cats live longer and have significantly lower rates of illness and injury than those that spend part or all...

Why Cats Love To Get High

If you’re trying to find a cat in any home, the search almost always ends by looking up. They’ll be on top of...

More related

Why Is My Cat Lethargic & Limping After a Vaccine? Vet-Verified Facts

Most cats are not big fans of visiting the vet, so you can imagine how unimpressed they will be when they have to...

Can Cats Eat Seaweed? Vet-Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ

It is no secret that most cats are fans of fish, and if you have a particularly keen cat, they might try to...

8 Cat-Themed Cocktail Recipes For Feline Loving Party Guests

If you’re hosting a cat-themed cocktail party soon, you’ll need some tasty beverage recipes to serve at your gathering. Why not stick with...

Why Do Cats Scratch? 4 Vet-Reviewed Reasons for This Behavior

Have you lost count of how many times you’ve had to stop your cat from scratching your couch, carpet, or curtains? While cat...

Keep reading

Why Does My Cat Sleep With Me and Not My Husband? 6 Likely Reasons

Often, our cat’s behaviors can seem strange. One point of confusion is often the places our cats try to sleep. They seem to sleep in the oddest places and may prefer to sleep with only one person. They may even...

cat sleeping on bed

Do British Shorthair Cats Shed More Than Average? Vet-Reviewed Breed Comparison & Helpful Tips

British Shorthair cats don’t shed more than average. Compared to other shorthair cats, their shedding is about even. Usually, they shed more during the spring and fall, when their coat is adjusting to the shifting seasons. You will probably find...

british shorthair

Is It Cruel to Keep My Cat Indoors? Vet-Reviewed Verdict & Facts

Cats are inquisitive, adventurous animals that enjoy exploring their surroundings. However, they prefer sticking close to their home territory. Some cats are born outdoors and live a feral life on the streets with no human companions to care for them....

cat-meowing-or-trilling-by-the-door

Safe & Effective Cat Shampoo Alternatives: 8 Vet Approved Options

Most cats are good at keeping themselves clean, but sometimes, your furry friend might need a little help, especially if they’ve investigated something filthy. Of course, a shampoo specifically designed for cats is the best and safest option. Sometimes, we...

Woman washing cat in grooming salon

How Much Hissing Is Normal When Introducing Cats? What to Tolerate & Guide (Vet-Reviewed)

Welcoming a new kitty to the family is exciting for the humans in the household. The other resident cats? Maybe not so much. While some cats get along instantly, others need some time to warm up to one another. It’s...

Angry cat hisses to another cat

How to Protect a Cat From a Hot Stove: 11 Vet-Reviewed Methods

Many cats know to keep away from hot stoves. Most can feel the heat coming off of it and can guess that it probably isn’t a good idea to touch it. However, some cats can jump on the hot stoves...

cat following owner to the kitchen seeking for attention

Mouse Meat Cat Food: Vet-Reviewed Pros, Cons & Future Uses

If we think of the great matchups in history, a few stand out as quintessential examples. There’s apple pie and ice cream, hamburgers and French fries, among many others. In the animal kingdom, there’s the cat and mouse. Pet owners...

woman-buying-cat-food-at-pet-store

Invisible Aging In Cats: How Veterinary Geroscience Could Help Cats Live Longer, Healthier Lives

Cats first began interacting with humans over 10,000 years ago, but they can still be a mystery, especially when it comes to health and aging. Given the feline reputation for being aloof and a bit standoffish, it can be difficult...

Invisible Aging In Cats 1

Love Cats? So Do We! Join the Catster Community

Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.




Sign up for the Catster Email Newsletter

Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.