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

The Original Space Invaders – Why Zero Respect for Personal Boundaries Is a Good Thing

Cats have a reputation for being independent, and in many ways they are. But anyone who has tried to work at a laptop...

How Cats Are Helping to Cure Cancer

When most people think about medical breakthroughs, they picture scientists in laboratories and clinical trials involving human patients. Few would imagine that the...

Ask Dr. Paola – My Cat Loves Eating Grass, But It Makes Her Vomit! (June 29, 2026)

Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our...

Learning to Speak Cat with Anthony Smith

Many cat lovers know me through Learn to Speak Cat and Cattitude – Doggonit, cartoons that explore the often mysterious, occasionally mischievous, and...

More related

What Kind of Cat Breed is Ferguson in New Girl? Feline Celebrities Facts

If you’re a fan of the sitcom New Girl, you’re probably a fan of the cat Ferguson. Even if you’ve never seen the...

Cat Art Show 2 Draws 7,000 People to a Los Angeles Gallery

On March 24 – March 27 2016 in Los Angeles, more than 7,000 people visited a gallery to see artwork featuring cats. Breathe...

Welcome to Seborga: A Small Mediterranean Nation of Cats

Tucked away in the southernmost foothills of the Alps, within sight of the Mediterranean Sea, is a tiny and little-known nation teeming with...

10 Best Chew Toys For Cats in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dog owners are painfully aware of their pet’s need for safe chew toys, frequently at the expense of their shoes. However, cat owners...

Keep reading

7 Safe Exercises for Cats With Arthritis: Vet-Approved Advice

Cats with arthritis need special care to overcome the pain and stay active. If your feline friend has been diagnosed with arthritis, they will become slower and won’t enjoy their playing time as much as before. While the condition primarily...

cat folding his paw while sleeping

Do Cats Pee Out of Spite? Behavior & Possible Causes Explained

No, cats do not pee outside of the litter box out of spite. While you may think that your cat has it out for you when they pee outside of the litter box, it’s usually for a reason, and the...

cat pee on carpet

Weaning Kittens: Vet-Reviewed Guide for How & When to Do It

At some point, all mammals need to be weaned. Transitioning kittens from nursing to eating solid food is a messy, fun experience. To properly transition, the kittens will need the appropriate support and food. Of course, whenever you switch the...

F1 Kitten drinks milk from a bottle

How Did My Indoor Cat Get Fleas? 7 Possible Reasons (Vet Verified)

You might think that your indoor cat would be safe from a flea infestation, but sadly, that’s not always the case. The bad news is that even indoor cats can get fleas. While indoor cats are admittedly at lower risk...

cat scratching ear

Will My Cat Eat My Bearded Dragon? Coexisting & Socialization Tips

Felines and reptiles have a complicated relationship. On the one hand, cats naturally hunt small lizards, such as geckos. In turn, these lizards sometimes carry parasites called flukes (Platynosomum fastosum) that can cause “Lizard Poisoning” in your cat. If you...

Cat and Bearded Dragon side by side

How to Pick Up & Hold a Kitten: 7 Vet-Reviewed Expert Tips

Congratulations if you’ve recently adopted a kitten or are caring for a litter of little ones! Between their sweet little meows and naughty antics, kittens can make even the most stoic among us fall in love. Although kittens often engage...

man holding two cute canadian sphynx kittens

Can Cats Control Their Tails? Vet-Verified Positions & Movement Explained

Cats use their tails to communicate to the world through body language. You can tell a lot about a cat’s disposition by what their tail is doing. With that being said, cats have full control of their tails. The tail...

tail of a cat on vintage background

Why Does My Cat Stare at Me? 7 Vet-Reviewed Reasons for This Behavior

You’re alone in your home, just going about your business, and you suddenly get the sinking feeling that you’re being stared at. You look out the window—nothing. You call out and ask if anyone’s there—no response. That’s when it hits...

Grey tabby cat with intense golden eyes

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.