15 Most Popular Cat Breeds of 2026 (With Info & Pictures)
A true cat lover will love a cat, no matter what breed. However, some breeds will always hold a special place in people’s hearts. Every year, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) tallies the most popular breeds based on their registration data, so let’s have a look at the breeds that made the list for this year!
How Was the List Compiled?
The CFA created a cat breed registration system to record the numbers of pedigreed cats in the hopes of preserving and promoting these breeds as well as monitoring the overall well-being of these cats. One benefit of having a cat registered is that they can compete in competitions. If people plan on breeding their cat, the registration ensures the kittens’ genetic health and unbroken lineage for potential buyers.
It is important to note that the data compiled by the CFA was taken from previous years, so our list reflects their most recent research.
The 15 Most Popular Cat Breeds
1. Ragdoll
It is no surprise that the Ragdoll takes first place again, making this the fifth year this breed has remained at the top spot. The breed’s combination of beauty and gentleness makes it popular among everyone. Being called the “most doglike cat” only attests to how loving this feline is toward people.
2. Maine Coon
Maintaining its second-place position from 2022, here comes the Maine Coon. This cat is famous for being the largest domestic cat breed in the world, with males weighing 20–25 pounds. That is one big cat! While they look intimidating, they are gentle, family-friendly felines.
3. Persian
The Persian cat has moved up on the list since 2022, going from fifth place to third. There are two types of this internationally loved feline: the peke-face and doll-face Persian. You need to make time to groom either one you bring into your life.
4. Exotic Shorthair
Coming in at fourth place, the Exotic Shorthair sometimes gets confused with the peke-face Persian because of the slightly squished face. However, they are two separate breeds, and one noticeable difference is that the Exotic Shorthair needs less grooming than the Persian.
5. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex fell a few places on the 2023 popularity list from the other year, coming from third and moving to fifth. However, this breed is still in the top five, which is an accomplishment. The highly energetic Devon Rex is truly unique; with their large eyes and massive ears, they definitely grab people’s attention!
6. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat due to their adorable appearance and calm demeanor. Very few cat lovers can resist their chunky cheeks and squishy bodies. The British Shorthair is not overly social and would best be suited for households without small children or other pets.
7. Abyssinian
Holding seventh place for the second year in a row is the regal Abyssinian cat. Their rich cinnamon, red, or fawn coloring is definitely eye-catching. But keep in mind that the Abyssinian is an energetic breed, so it will need a family that can accommodate their exercise and stimulation needs.
8. Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is the eighth most popular breed for 2023. There is a reason this breed has held the same place two years in a row. There is some debate on the breeding of Scottish Folds, so if you are interested in adopting one, make sure you read up on the subject or consult your vet.
9. Siberian
In 2021, the Siberian missed out on being in the top 10. However, in 2022, it landed tenth place and continues to hold that position. The Siberian has often been compared to the Maine Coon. While it is smaller than that breed, Siberians do share similarities, such as in their personality and muscular build.
10. Sphynx
The Sphynx just made it into the top ten most popular breeds, dropping one position from ninth place in 2022. Much like the Devon Rex, the Sphynx has enlarged ears, giving it an elf-like appearance. This hairless cat is known for being quite vocal, so be prepared to get serenaded!
11. American Shorthair
Like the British Shorthair, the American Shorthair resembles the typical cat. With its round face and stocky body, this breed is easygoing and friendly. Its history of being an effective rat catcher made this cat a popular addition to have on ships and farms for a few hundred years!
12. Russian Blue
It is no wonder that the Russian Blue made it on this list! This beautiful cat is renowned for its slate-gray fur and striking emerald eyes. Their playful and energetic natures make them excellent companions for cat lovers of all kinds.
13. Norwegian Forest Cat
Another big cat has made the list of the most popular breeds: the Norwegian Forest Cat. While not as large as the Maine Coon, this cat does share similarities with that giant feline. They can be friendly and affectionate but calm enough for households with children. These cats are also trainable due to their intelligence.
14. Oriental
The Oriental Cat has genetic connections to the Siamese cat; however, its origins are in the USA. These affectionate cats have an incredibly uniquely shaped face and ears that closely resemble the Devon Rex and Sphynx cats—both of which are on this list. People love cats with unique features.
15. Bengal
Last on the CFA’s most popular cat breed list is the Bengal. This is quite a feat because Bengal cats are illegal to own in some states. Plus, this breed was only recognized by the CFA in 2018, making this the “newest” recognized breed on the popularity list.
Conclusion
It is always exciting to see an updated list of popular breeds! Some of the cats held strong to their positions, while others got more popular and others slightly less. However, this list shows us how incredibly loved these cats are based on their temperament, beauty, or uniqueness—or a combination of all three.
Featured Image Credit: CKYN stock photo, Shutterstock
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Nicole is a lover of all animals, especially of the feline variety. She's mom to four, three fur babies and a human baby. She and her husband, John, live on a large forest property down in New Zealand.
Their beautiful Burmese cat Baby (who is now 17 years old) was their first child, though he is now called Baby Cat since their human baby joined the party in 2022. The dogs Rosa and Mac also love cats, but the whole family agrees that King Baby Cat is enough cat for this household.
Nicole is the Director of Content Management at Catster and Pangolia. With a Bachelor's degree in Education and years of online experience, she shares her pet knowledge and the knowledge of other professionals with the world, aiming to improve pets and pet parents' lives.
