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.

13 Quiet Cat Breeds That Don’t Meow a Lot (With Info & Pictures)

Share

siberian cat sitting on the jute wicker rug

Cats are independent and courageous. They’ll spend hours snuggled up in your lap while you are lounging around on the couch. They will also spend hours outside playing and hunting small prey if you allow them to. Most cat breeds also tend to enjoy talking throughout the day and night, which can get a bit annoying, especially when you’re trying to get some shut-eye.

Luckily, you don’t have to succumb to midnight yowls and midday harassment from your cat. If you already own a cat that meows more than you’d like them to, you can train them to adopt quieter behavior. But don’t expect the process to be easy!

If you’re looking to adopt a new kitty, you can opt for a quiet cat breed. There are many “silent” cat breeds that would make a wonderful furry companion for your household. Check out our favorites below.

divider 3 paws

The 13 Quiet Cat Breeds

1. Birman

Cute Birman Cat
Image Credit: Borkin Vadim, Shutterstock
Temperament: Affectionate, social, gentle
Suitable for: Anyone looking for a friendly feline
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years

Featuring a playful personality, the Birman loves company but tends to be a quiet cat breed when they know you’re busy or sleeping. They have luxuriously silky fur that doesn’t mat, and males can weigh up to 15 pounds, so these aren’t small cats.

These cats prefer not to be the only animal living in the house, so consider adopting a set of siblings.


2. Chartreux

Chartreux Cat on the floor
Image Credit: Michael Hahn, Shutterstock
Temperament: Loving, docile, friendly
Suitable for: Singles, small and large families, seniors, and anyone looking for a quiet feline
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years

The Chartreux cat is typically a shade of beautiful blue and can weigh up to 15 pounds. They’re soft, gentle, and sweet. They love to cuddle, yet their powerful bodies make them ideal mousers. These cats tend to form close bonds with their human family members. Best of all, they’re known for being quiet cats.


3. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex kitten
Image Credit: Elena Loginova, Shutterstock
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, friendly, intelligent, quick learners, gets along well with other pets
Suitable for: Active families and individuals looking for a low-shedding cat.
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

These cats’ loving demeanor makes them popular among friends and family members. The Cornish Rex cat has super soft fur that’s enjoyable to stroke.

These are small, active cats that love to play with toys and interact with others. Luckily, they’re known for playing and interacting quietly making them a favorite on our list of the quietest cat breeds.


4. Havana Brown

Havana Brown cat
Image Credit: slowmotiongli, Shutterstock
Temperament: Alert, intelligent, friendly
Suitable for: Attentive owners, families, households with other pets
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

These brown cats are outgoing, playful, and funny. They particularly like moving toys, and they will never turn down the opportunity to enjoy catnip. When it comes time for bed, you can expect your Havana Brown cat to cuddle up by your feet for the night. They are also one of the cats that don’t meow at you every time they want attention or have a need.


5. LaPerm

Fawn LaPerm
Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock.jpg
Temperament: Loyal and loving, intelligent, easy to train, friendly, and gets along with other pets
Suitable for: Active families, those looking for a loving and friendly cat, and those with other pets
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

With wavy hair and a fun-loving persona, the LaPerm is a quiet cat. They’ll happily spend their days on your lap or snuggled up by your computer while you work. They only meow when something really important is happening or when they aren’t feeling well. Otherwise, they tend to prefer communicating through touch and play.


6. Ragdoll

ragdoll cat on bed
Image Credit: choosangyeon, Shutterstock
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, friendly, intelligent, quick learners, gets along well with other pets
Suitable for: Active families and individuals looking for a low-shedding cat
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

The plush hair of this cat breed is irresistible and easy to care for. They like to follow their family members around and sit in laps to show their affection. They’re smart and can even learn how to do tricks for you. They’ll do all of this quietly, with the occasional meow thrown in throughout the day for good measure.


7. Persian

ginger persian cat lying on the floor
Image Credit: CKYN stock photo, Shutterstock
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, laidback, playful, gentle, quiet
Suitable for: Families or singles in a quiet household
Lifespan: 10 – 13 years

This is a quiet cat breed that’s typically docile and prefers snuggling up rather than playing. They’re quite independent, so they don’t need a lap to stay content. They’re perfectly happy to people-watch from their cat perch or from a bed on the floor. These cats do well with other animals, including mild-mannered doggies.


8. Singapura

Singapuras
Image Credit: jojosmb, Shutterstock
Temperament: High energy, frisky, affectionate, fun, clingy, shy
Suitable for: Families, seniors, singles
Lifespan: 11 – 15 years

Singapura cats are small and typically weigh less than 8 pounds when fully grown. Some people think that these quiet cats are pesky because they’re so curious and playful. They aren’t prone to lay around napping all day long, as most cat breeds do. Although they’re outgoing and social, they don’t like loud noises or too much hustle and bustle, and they tend to be quiet cats and stick to themselves.


9. Scottish Fold

Scottish Fold Cat
Image Credit: Psihopat, Wikimedia Commons
Temperament: Friendly, social, and docile
Suitable for: Families with children, families with dogs, apartment living
Lifespan: 11 – 15 years

Smart and curious, the Scottish Fold cat may have short or long hair, but either way, it’s smooth and silky. These cats vie for human attention and relish in pets and snuggles. They don’t like being left at home alone, so another cat or a cat-friendly dog should be there to keep them company. They also won’t wake you up with yowling in the middle of the night.


10. Siberian Cat

Siberian domestic cat sitting in snow during wintertime
Image Credit: Dmitry Naumov, Shutterstock
Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, tough
Suitable for: Active families looking for an affectionate and playful cat
Lifespan: 11 – 18 years

These gorgeous quiet cats feature soft, semi-long hair and fluffy tails. They love being around humans and will take well to strangers. Siberian cats enjoy being active and will even play a game of fetch when offered the opportunity. They like to climb, which can get them in trouble from time to time. But they’re also quiet animals that would rather purr than meow.


11. American Curl

American curl cat Silver tabby color
Image Credit:Nitiphonphat,Shutterstock
Temperament: A people-loving cat that gets on well with children but may not like the company of other cats.
Suitable for: Anyone looking for a warm and friendly indoor-only cat
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years

The American Curl cat is known for its distinctively curved ears and kitten-like personality that seems to last through adulthood. Alert and graceful, these cats can easily adjust to different situations as they arise, which makes them ideal for busy households that see a great deal of activity throughout the day.

They aren’t keen on using their voice to communicate, which means a nice and quiet house for you.


12. Bengal Cat

Bengal cat like a leopard sneaks Indoor
Image Credit: Alexander_Evgenyevich,Shutterstock
Temperament: Willful, wild, mischievous, and entertaining
Suitable for: Small families with plenty of space, experienced cat owners looking for a challenge
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years

Although quiet in voice, the Bengal cat is curious and unpredictable. They don’t have a problem hopping in the shower with human family members, for example, and they’ll take every opportunity to paw at the fish tank. These cats can be trained to walk on a leash for some safe outdoor play, and they’ll happily snuggle up for a movie on a rainy Sunday afternoon.


13. Pixiebob

Pixie-Bob Cat sitting in a white background
Image Credit: Nynke van Holten, Shutterstock
Temperament: Laidback, gentle, calm, intelligent
Suitable for: All cat-loving families
Lifespan: 11 – 15 years

This quiet cat breed resembles the wild Coastal Red Bobcat that is typically found living in the Pacific Northwest, but luckily, they’re much smaller. These cats are easygoing and can get along well with kids and other animals alike.

This is another trainable breed that can high-five, fetch, walk on a leash, and sit and stay. They don’t talk much, but they communicate well with their body language.

divider 1 paws

Our Final Thoughts

We think all cats are awesome, whether they meow a lot or not. But we understand that not every household is right for the meowing cat. Every cat breed on our list does talk, but not often or incessantly. If you’re looking for a cool cat to spend your free time with and that will help fill your home with love and enjoyment, any one of the quiet cats on our list is worth your consideration.


Featured Image Credit: evrymmnt, 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.


Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Ask Dr. Paola – Help! My Cat Suddenly Has Dandruff! (March 30, 2026)

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

Your Cat Keeps Vomiting After Eating: Here’s What’s Going On

Cats vomit. It’s one of the less glamorous facts of life with a feline, and most cat owners have cleaned up more than...

Ask Dr. Paola – Help! My Cat Gets Diarrhea from Wet Food! (March 23, 2026)

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

Cat Shampoo Alternatives That Are Already in Your House

If your cat has ever gotten into something disgusting and you’ve found yourself without cat shampoo, we’re here to help. Before you panic...

More related

Can You Set Boundaries With Cats? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

As much as we love our feline friends, they can often send us into confusion with their curious behavior, whether it’s disruptive nighttime...

Why Does My Cat Lick My Lips? 10 Likely Reasons

Having a cat as a family member can bring you love, adventure, and even confusion. We may never fully understand cats and some...

What Are the Acro-Cats? Facts, History & FAQ

Animal lovers on a mission are always looking for ways to get our attention. If you have recently heard of the Acro-Cats, but...

6 DIY Fun Fleece Toys for Cats To Make At Home Today

Many cats love fleece. It’s also very easy to work with, making it a great option for new DIYers. There are many ways...

Keep reading

American Journey Cat Food Review in 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary American Journey Pet Food is an exclusive brand owned by Chewy.com. It was first launched in 2017 and sold almost exclusively through Chewy’s website. All American Journey’s pet food is made in the U.S.A. by a manufacturer in...

American Journey Cat Food Review

Can Cats Eat Minnows? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

If you’re a cat owner, you may have wondered whether your feline friend can snack on minnows. It’s a valid question. After all, fish are a natural part of their diet, in the wild, right? The answer is yes, so...

Can Cats Eat Minnows

Cat Pedicures: What’s Involved? Vet-Approved Facts & Explanation

Our kitties might need a little extra love in the nail department. These lethal murder mittens can do quite a lot of damage. If you’ve shared your home with a feline, you know just how much it can impact your...

Cat in a veterinary clinic hairdresser cutting nails

Does Baking Soda Kill Fleas on Cats? Vet-Approved Effectiveness & FAQ

Baking soda is an effective and inexpensive home remedy for several problems, and you may have heard that baking soda can kill fleas on cats. The idea is that baking soda creates an environment that the fleas cannot survive in...

baking soda in a glass bowl

How to Find an Affordable Vet for Your Cat: 11 Easy Ways

Despite your best intentions, you might not be in the same financial position when you first adopted your cat. Paying for your necessities might be difficult, never mind trying to cover medical care for your cat, especially in an emergency....

vet-and-cat-owner-having-a-consultation-at-the-clinic_H_Ko_Shutterstock

Skin Tags on Cats: Vet-Reviewed Causes, Care, & FAQ

It can feel alarming when you’re petting your cat, and your fingers suddenly come across a small bump on their skin. However, not all bumps are the same, and some are completely benign. Cats can start to develop bumps and...

vet examining a skin disease of a cat

Do Cats Need Sunscreen When Going Outside? Vet-Approved Facts

Applying sunscreen to a cat may sound a little messy or unnecessary, but some breeds and those with light-colored coats could benefit from wearing sunscreen at times. Cats that are at higher risk of skin damage due to sun exposure...

cat on the beach

How to Tell If a Cat Has UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)? Vet-Reviewed Signs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats. They mainly occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and go up to the bladder1. Once the bacteria reproduce and multiply, your cat can get a UTI. UTIs can disrupt a cat’s...

cat sitting with pee on couch

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.