In this post I’m going to share what I consider the top 10 friendliest cat breeds. Although most cats are friendly, these are especially known for their friendliness.
Whether you’re looking for a companion pet, or a cat suited to children, I hope this article will inspire you. Owning a cat provides so many benefits both for health and wellbeing.
In fact, cat owners tend to be less stressed and more able to cope with life’s problems. This is more so if you live on your own.
It’s like having another living soul to confide in. The good thing about confiding in a cat is your secret is safe!
Are Cats As Friendly As Dogs?
Many dog owners will tell you cats are aloof with no feeling. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, some of the cat breeds I’m about to share with you are very dog-like in nature.
The good thing though is you don’t have to take them for walks several times a day! With these friendly cat breeds you get the best of both worlds.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are the giants of the cat world. Yet, despite their size they’re very gentle.
If you’re looking for a friendly breed of cat that’s good with children this could be the one for you. Maine Coons are highly intelligent with a sweet, gentle personality.
This makes them an ideal choice if you have kids. Their friendly, tolerant nature means they can adapt to your children’s needs.
If you’re concerned about high maintenance, you needn’t worry. This massive size cat isn’t over demanding and doesn’t expect to be constantly entertained.
However, you should make time each day to play with your cat. This rule applies whether you go out each day or work from home.
If you want to know more about Maine Coon cats including size and personality read my article. It goes into greater depth and will give you a better understanding.
Sphynx
Sphynx are definitely one of the top 10 friendliest cat breeds. In case you’ve never heard of the breed they have a covering of fine, downy hair.
In fact, some are even completely hairless! While this may seem like cruel freak of nature, they are a happy and mischievous breed.
If you decide to own a Sphynx cat you’ll never feel lonely. In fact, be prepared to be followed everywhere!
Their dog like personality makes the Sphynx a loving and very friendly companion. You’ll always receive a warm welcome on your return home as your little sphynx greets you at the door.
Due to its friendly and playful nature, the Sphynx gets on well with children. In fact, don’t be surprised if it joins in your kid’s games!
Bombay
The Bombay is a distinctive looking cat with a beautiful black coat and mesmerising copper eyes. Even their paw pads and noses are black.
Bombay cats are a very friendly and sociable breed. In fact,they form very strong bonds with those they get close to.
You’ll also be pleased to hear Bombay cats get on well with other pets and children. Whether you have dogs or another cat you should be fine.
Persian
Persian cats are a stunningly beautiful breed, with flat faces and large round eyes. In addition, thick, long hair adds to its beauty, though also demands daily grooming.
If you’re looking for a cat that’s friendly, the Persian is definitely high on the list. They have the gentlest and sweetest personality as well as being super friendly.
Laid back and easy going are words that typically describe the Persian cat. This is one of the top 10 friendliest cat breeds that doesn’t demand constant attention.
Quiet natured and calm, you’ll find your this furry companion will let you work in peace. This is great news if you work from home as many of us do nowadays.
If you have children you’ll find this cat breed to be very tolerant. Even boisterous children are tolerated, though always supervise.
Birman
The Birman is a large, semi-long haired breed that looks like a Persian without the flat face. It’s actually a cross between Siamese and Persian.
One of the Birman’s personality traits is friendliness. Also, just like its Persian cousins this breed is quiet and undemanding.
If you have young children or other pets this could be a perfect choice. With an affectionate and gentle nature you’ll find the Birman will love being around them.
Birman cats are also quite intelligent and often respond well to training. In fact, they’re described by many as being doglike.
Fetching toys or even greeting you at the door are typical of what you can expect with this friendly cat breed.
Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats get their name from going limp when picked up and held. These gentle giants are very affectionate making them one of the friendliest cat breeds.
The Ragdoll’s docile, friendly nature makes this breed a perfect companion. Not only are they affectionate but can easily be trained to come when called.
However you also need to be aware this trait also make the Ragdoll an easy target for thieves. As long as they’re kept indoors at night though, most owners will be fine.
Similar to the Maine Coon, Ragdolls don’t demand a lot of attention. In fact, they like nothing better than cuddling on your lap.
Its gentle, laid back personality also makes the Ragdoll a perfect choice if you have children. In addition, if you have other cats you needn’t worry.
Ragdolls aren’t known for picking fights or hissing. In fact, you’d be more likely to find it walking away from a confrontational kitty.
Burmese
I’ve listed the Burmese in my top 10 friendliest cat breeds as it’s one of the most affectionate. Not only is the Burmese a true lapcat, but it also loves the company of children, dogs, and other cats.
If you’re looking for a friendly cat breed, the Burmese is certainly one to consider. However, if you go out to work make sure you get two!
This because they hate being alone. Their friendly, chatty nature means the Burmese craves company.
As I’ve often mentioned before, bored cats soon make their own entertainment! You can avoid this by providing plenty of toys.
Ocicat
Despite it’s resemblance to a wild cat, the Ocicat is one of the friendliest breeds of cat. However, before you think about getting an Ocicat you need to be aware of its needs.
This is because Ocicats are high energy and need plenty of stimulation. You can provide this though with a large cat tree and outside space to play.
If you get an Ocicat you’ll notice how doglike it is. In fact, this breed loves being around dogs.
Not only is the Ocicat friendly with canine family members, it likes to join in games. You’d even be forgiven for thinking you’d adopted a dog instead of a cat!
Although Ocicats are very affectionate they’re not lapcats. If this is the type of cat you want you should consider other breeds.
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is a medium size cat with large ears and looks just like a small mountain lion. This muscular breed is also high energy and very friendly.
If you’re looking for an affectionate cat that’s not too demanding, the Abyssinian is a breed to consider. While you’ll find this cat prefers to sit near you rather than on you, the Abyssinian is very loyal.
This breed has a slender build with tufted ears. While it loves human company the Abyssinian also enjoys being around other pets.
In fact, most Abyssinian cats would prefer it if you had other cats or dogs as playmates. In addition, its friendly nature makes this cat a good choice if you have children.
Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair cat is certainly one of the friendliest cat breeds you’ll find. Not only is it very affectionate, but placid and even tempered as well.
If your lifestyle is busy with little time to spare, an Exotic Shorthair could be a good choice. Though loving, this cat doesn’t demand constant attention.
In fact she’ll be quite happy to play on her own. As long as you provide her with toys she’ll be fine if you’re out all day.
As with other breeds I’ve covered here, the American Shorthair is a good choice if you have children or other pets.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article about top 10 friendliest cat breeds has inspired you. Whether this will be your first cat or you already have other pets, any of these will be a perfect addition.
If you’ve enjoyed this post and found it useful please share. Also, feel free to share this pin on your “pets” board.
Also, if you have any questions or would like to share experiences leave a comment below.
Wishing you a purrfect day:)
Kathy
Hi Kathy,
Your post was just in time!
I loved how you debunked the popular belief that ‘cats are aloof creatures that love being alone.’ I’ve been caught in many of such arguments myself, and I’ve explained severally that there are several cats that are just like dogs too!
This list, why definitely not exhaustive, contains truly exotic breeds that like you said can be really friendly, needy, and just perfect if you have children around.
Personally, I have the Persian as a favorite. Their large eyes, soft hair and sweet personality gets to me every time.
Thanks again Kathy. I’d read up more on the other breeds mentioned. I hope to see more of this.
Cheers,
Femi.
Hi Femi, thank you for your comment:) Yes, most cats definitely aren’t aloof. Glad you enjoyed reading about the different breeds in this post. The Persian is one of my favourites as well:)