21 Cutest Cat Breeds: History, Pictures, & Info

The Sphynx is both highly independent and social, making it perfect for families who prefer to be hands-off. These cats will entertain themselves in your business and then go away when they’re ready for self-entertainment.

These cats are very active and inquisitive. They need a highly stimulating environment to stay happy, so they do best with owners who have a lot of time on their hands. The Sphynx works best for single owners, retired couples, and other household settings where you can spend a good chunk of your time playing with this breed.

If you take on the responsibility of owning a Sphynx cat, it’s important to learn straight away that this is not an outdoor cat in any capacity. While you can certainly create a sanctuary outdoors where they can experience nature but not be directly involved, they should never be left to their own devices outside.

These cats have extremely sensitive skin and can get frostbite and sunburn very easily. They’re also extremely expensive cats, and most people know that! A lot of time spent outside increases the chance of somebody abducting your cat. Unfortunately, that’s a real thing.

In addition to their charming appearance, the Scottish Fold has a wonderful personality that can mesh with just about any living situation. These cats are known for being very loving, affectionate, and people oriented. They would make wonderful additions to growing families and tend to do very well with experienced children.

These cats can be particularly prone to weight gain. It is important to portion their meals properly and accordingly. This is one area of care that shouldn’t be overlooked, as it can lead to a whirlwind of other more serious health complications.

Because of their docile nature, this kitty can work wonderfully with small or growing children. They also love having playmates and cuddle buddies, so having a few extra cats would do them well.

The Ragdoll is known to be quite a floppy cat, very limber and movable. Even though they seem more flexible than others, take extra caution when you’re handling them. Even though these cats are quite cuddly, they require an extensive amount of exercise and can get bored quite easily. You should have lots of activities available for your cat to take part in, or else they might take matters into their own hands.

These cats are incredibly intelligent but prefer to march to the beat of your own drum. They are fiercely independent and don’t mind time for themselves. You can have them with or without other feline companies, and they will likely be fine either way. As for humans, this breed is very friendly with people, and we’ll acclimate very well into a variety of lifestyles.

Munchkins tend to be very docile in nature. They make wonderful pets for a variety of lifestyles and get along very well with other cats. The Munchkin can be prone to back problems because of their elongated spine, so it’s important to handle them with care.

The British Shorthair is known for being an all-around fantastic feline to have in the home. These cats are docile, playful, and agreeable towards most people and other pets. The British Shorthair is revered for its amiable nature and often chosen to take on companionship roles. These cats can do well in almost any living situation, whether you’re just starting out or enjoying your golden years.

These cats tend to be very playful, intelligent, and energetic. They love to interact with their humans and might involve themselves in your everyday activities. Because they have such keen intelligence, they can be easily trained and tend to do well in numerous social settings.

They love observing, so this might be the kind of cat that jumps on counters or other high points in the home. Since these cats prefer stimulation and activity, they actually do best in growing families and homes with other pets.

The Egyptian Mau is very aware of everything going on around them. They tend to get very connected with their owners and love to play. They are highly vocal cats making a variety of interesting noises.

The Egyptian Mau can be compatible with other pets if they are raised together. However, once one of these cats is set in their ways, it can be harder for them to acclimate to new family members.

It is important for you to do something to get them outside, such as teach them to walk on a leash or build a cat sanctuary. If you are unable to take your Bengal outdoors, it might be best to search for another breed.

These lean and elegant cats have wild-like appearances and personalities. They tend to be very playful, prey-driven, and sociable amongst their families. You need to always make sure you are giving them enriching toys to play with to develop their predatory instincts.

This is not a compatible breed with any smaller pets that could be mistaken for prey. However, they make incredible mousers, keeping pests at bay.

This particular breed was designed for the cold. Their long, beautiful fur helps to insulate them from cold temperatures. They really love it outside, especially when the snow starts. So, be prepared to give them outdoor stimulation.

Maine Coons are generally very hardy and healthy. They get along very well with everyone and everything. However, they make fierce hunters, so don’t ever let them around the family hamster!

The Selkirk is a very active and inquisitive breed, wanting to play and make friends at every turn. This social cat does best when they have other cats to spend time with. They can work in various settings, including with small children and other pets.

The Selkirk Rex loves being the center of attention. They will gladly accept affection from guests, whether they know people or not. They love to play as well, enjoying having other cats to groom and romp around with.

These cats are extremely calm, affectionate, and intelligent. However, they are also totally willing to give you your space, so you don’t have to worry about neediness. They tend to be highly sensitive with great emotional intelligence.

These cats like to play, but they are very easy to please. Give them a catnip-stuffed plush mouse, and they will be satisfied. They also will love having another feline around to mingle with, but it isn’t always a necessity with this breed.

The Oriental Shorthair is one breed that becomes extremely attached to its owners. You will have a lifetime commitment as it can be very difficult for these cats to readjust to a new home. So, if you buy the breed, ensure you are in for about 15 years of Oriental Shorthair care.

These brilliant cats can learn a variety of tasks. They love to climb, so you might find them on top of your refrigerator, cabinets, or other high points in the home. They love living with other people and pets, making them very compatible with growing families.

These cats need to be stimulated regularly. They benefit very much from a variety of toys and exercise entertainment. They can even learn to walk on a leash! What’s not to love?

The Persian is generally a very elegant and loving cat. They are calm, though they will love to bat around a toy or two with you. These kitties are very attached to all family members but require experienced owners with knowledge of the breed.

The long hair of the Persian requires frequent, consistent grooming. Otherwise, you’ll end up with mats and tangles that take away from the coat’s natural beauty.

Also, be aware that brachycephalic cats are prone to more health conditions, so it’s important to discuss the pros and cons of this breed with a veterinarian before you decide to commit to one.

The Siamese isn’t for the faint of heart. Siamese cats are independent, active, mischievous, and cunning cats that have very strong personalities.

The Siamese is best suited for an experienced owner who can understand the breed firsthand. They can be a little headstrong and challenging for novice owners. But once you fall in love with a Siamese, you’ll be a lover for life.

Himalayans tend to be very laid back and agreeable, so they mesh well with a variety of personalities. They usually can acclimate very well into families, permitting they have the right introductions, even when they are fully grown.

Because the Himayalan has a long, fluffy coat, grooming is imperative. Don’t get us wrong—Himayalans are master groomers. However, they need a little extra help preventing mats and tangles.

The American Shorthair has a shorter coat, but it’s very fluffy! They have an amazing coat texture and require minimal grooming. They tend to be very relaxed and easy to please, perfect for beginners and experienced cat owners alike.

The American Shorthair is everything you could want in a house cat. They make awesome companion animals for all ages and love hanging out with other pets.

The American Curl is an adventurous, spunky cat that loves to romp around! They will love keeping your kids and other pets company! They tend to get along very well with others, though their energy levels may be a bit much for more mellow pets.

These cats love jumping! Make sure they have enough kitty-friendly surfaces in the home to perch on.

This is an all-around good cat to have. They are very friendly, agreeable, and intelligent. They can mesh well with multi-pet and children-filled households or blend into a quieter environment.

The American Wirehair is a rare breed, so don’t count on finding one so easily. But who knows? You might get lucky and find a breeder nearby.

The Manx is highly energetic and interactive with other pets. They love to scratch their claws and explore the home—leaving no stone unturned. Because they love the great outdoors so much, they would benefit very much from a catio or outdoor sanctuary.

The Manx is generally a very healthy cat but can suffer spinal issues if their tail is too short at birth. This can affect the way they walk but doesn’t usually cause permanent disability.

Lykois have active temperaments and generally love to play with other cats and people. Because they are so energetic, they don’t work well in low energy homes. The Lykoi, despite its unique appearance, doesn’t require too much grooming. A few passes of a brush every few days, and you’re good as gold.