15 Most Affectionate Cat Breeds (With Pictures)

One of the things that we love most about our feline friends is their independent nature. But that doesn’t mean we never want a good snuggle with them! Some cat breeds are truly people-oriented and will almost always be happy to soak up all the attention that you can give them. You might find that they even follow you around the house and demand to be picked up.

If you’re looking for a new cat and want to maximize the chances of them being a cuddle-bug, then we recommend choosing one of these 15 most affectionate breeds! Cats have many subtle ways of showing us that they care, and once you start spotting those signs, you’ll soon see that your cat loves you just as much as you love them.

The 15 Most Affectionate Cat Breeds

1. Ragamuffin

The adorable Ragamuffin is a blend of the Ragdoll, Himalayan, and Persian breeds. Their coats have more variation in color than the Ragdoll. These cats take affection and loyalty to a new level. They will follow their owners around the house and are always ready for a cuddle. They’re also outgoing and confident around visitors, so they make a great choice of cat for busy households. Ragamuffins crave company and are best suited to a household where someone is home most of the time.

• Also See: 12 Cat Breeds With Ear Tufts (With Pictures)

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2. Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold breed is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation discovered in 1961 in Tayside, Scotland. These medium-sized cats have a stocky build. Scottish Folds have the endearing habit of relaxing in strange positions, like laying flat on their back or stretched out on their stomachs. They’re a relatively active breed and love playing in between cuddles with their owners. They don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods, so they need a home with plenty of company.

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3. Siamese

The ancient Siamese breed hails from Siam, now known as Thailand. This breed is exceptionally talkative, and you’ll never be in doubt about where your cat is and what they want. They have an outgoing personality that is affectionate but can veer into demanding. They thrive in a household where they can have company most of the time. They will happily follow you around the house and keep a close eye on what you’re up to.

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4. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is an American breed that probably started life as a ship cat, whose job was to keep rodents away. These large cats don’t reach full size until they’re at least 5 years old. They have an outgoing and adaptable personality, and while they adore human company, they’re not overly demanding. While they love attention, they’re not your typical lap cat and would rather sit next to you instead. They also love to play, perhaps remembering their past as mousers extraordinaire.

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5. Birman

The exact origins of the Birman are unclear, but legend has it that they were originally temple cats, and their distinctive appearance is due to being blessed by a temple goddess. The Birman has a similar Himalayan pointed coat as the Siamese but is far less vocal. They’re a calm and affectionate breed that loves to be picked up and fussed over. Birmans are smart and inquisitive, so expect them to always want to know exactly what you’re doing.

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6. Persian

The Persian is an ancient breed hailing from Persia, which was formerly known as Mesopotamia and is now called Iran. They were the first longhaired cat breed to be brought to Europe in the 17^th century and have been one of the most popular breeds ever since. Persians are easygoing and calm. They love to be given plenty of attention but can be quite selective in whom they’ll accept this from. They’re reserved around new visitors and are never overly demanding.

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7. Sphynx

The Sphynx breed was the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation that resulted in a hairless kitten. The Sphynx is perhaps the ultimate attention-seeking and affectionate cat. They adore being the center of attention and are extremely sociable. They don’t adapt well to a home where they’re left alone all day. Sphynx cats are athletic and enjoy finding high places to hang out and spending plenty of time playing with their toys.

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8. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are a modern breed, having only been developed in the 1960s. Their name is inspired by their adorable habit of flopping gently into the arms of whoever is holding them. They have placid and calm personalities and are always happy to sit on someone’s lap or snuggle up for a nap. While they’re calm, they do enjoy plenty of opportunities for active play. They’re a well-mannered breed, and while they love attention, they’re never overly demanding about it.

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9. Burmese

The Burmese breed is descended from the Siamese breed and Burmese “copper cats” that were kept at temples. They have well-built, muscular bodies and love to play. Expect your cat to explore every part of your house and regularly run around to work off their high spirits. Burmese cats are exceptionally affectionate, though, and love nothing more than spending all day with their owners. They’re also extremely confident around visitors and will demand attention from them too!

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10. Tonkinese

The Tonkinese breed combines the Burmese and Siamese breeds to get the best of both breeds. These cats are also known as “Tonks” and are among the most sociable and outgoing breeds that you’re likely to meet. They love to follow their owners around the house and be involved with every aspect of daily life. They also love to learn tricks and enjoy going for walks once they’ve been trained to accept a harness and leash.

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11. Bombay

The Bombay breed doesn’t come from India, as the name might suggest, but is actually an American breed created when black American Shorthairs and sable Burmese cats were bred together. Bombay cats are full of energy and are clever. They’re also adaptable and calm, which makes them a great choice for busy households. Bombay cats love affection but don’t always like to share their people. They can get along with other pets, as long as everyone knows that Bombay is the boss!

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12. Kurilian Bobtail

The Kurilian Bobtail is a natural breed that originated on the Kuril Islands, located between Russia and Japan. They were prized locally for their mousing ability before their popularity spread elsewhere. They’re still a relatively unusual breed but have many endearing qualities. These outgoing cats love human company, and they actively seek out their families for attention and affection. The Kurilian Bobtail makes a fantastic family cat due to their adaptable nature.

• See also: Do Snakes Attack and Eat Cats?

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13. Abyssinian

The Abyssinian was exhibited at the very first cat show held at Crystal Palace, London, in 1871. It’s thought that the breed was originally brought to Europe from their native Southeast Asia on ships carrying cargo for the British and Dutch. Abyssinians have a love of playing and finding the highest spot that they can. They also love being the center of attention, so life is never dull with one of these livewires around! They’re inquisitive and affectionate but always prefer to be on the move rather than sitting still.

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14. Chartreux

The stunning and dignified Chartreux is said to be descended from cats kept at Carthusian monasteries in France. They have a distinctive dense and velvety coat in a stunning shade of blue. These cats may be quiet but they’re also extremely affectionate. They have a gentle nature and will often follow their owners around the house so they can be near them at all times. They still love to play, and rather than meowing, they will generally attract your attention by staring at you!

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15. Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair shares many of the same characteristics as the longhaired Persian, but they have short coats instead! Exotic Shorthairs have a sweet and affectionate nature and are generally calm around the house. They can be prone to bursts of playful exuberance, but these won’t last long, and your cat will soon be ready to snuggle on your lap again! Neutered males are often said to be more affectionate than females, so bear that in mind when choosing your kitten.

Conclusion

There are the 15 most affectionate cat breeds that we could round up. Each of these cats vary in looks and personality, but they are all sure to fill your home with lots of love and snuggles. Which one was your favorite?

Related Read:

• 15 Best Indoor Cat Breeds (With Pictures)
• 20 Most Independent Cat Breeds (With Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: 4678112, Pixabay