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Home > Cats > 10 Most Popular Cat Breeds in UK in 2024 (with Pictures)

10 Most Popular Cat Breeds in UK in 2024 (with Pictures)

a tabby maine coon cat at home

Cats are becoming increasingly popular pets in many countries, including the UK. Cats rank as the second most popular pet in the UK with 28% of pets being cats. Some cat breeds receive more recognition than others and have some notable qualities that make them highly prized choices amongst cat owners.

Our list contains the top 10 most popular cat breeds in the UK. Many breeds on this list have wonderful temperaments and are known to be good companion pets. If you’re interested in bringing home your own cat, our list is a great place to start your search.

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The 10 Most Popular Cat Breeds in UK in 2024

1. Bengal

bengal-cat-sitting
Image By: TheCats, Shutterstock
Height: 17-22 inches
Weight: 8-17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-16 years
Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, good with children

It’s no surprise that the Bengal is the most popular cat breed in the UK. This cat breed has a unique spotted coat that mimics the Asian Leopard Cat’s coat, but it doesn’t have a wild and aggressive personality. In fact, Bengals are quite friendly and are usually very good with kids and aren’t afraid to approach strangers.

Bengals are also very smart, and many can learn tricks. They do have a lot of energy, so it’s important to give them plenty of toys, enrichment activities, and playtime with you to prevent boredom.


2. British Shorthair

British Shorthair cat
Image By: Laura Fokkema, Shutterstock
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 7-17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 15-20 years
Temperament: Independent, loyal, good for first-time owners

The British Shorthair is actually one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. These cats are easygoing and independent, but they do tend to have strong loyalty to one or two people. The most common color of this breed is the blue-gray coat, but you can find British Shorthairs with all kinds of colors and patterns.

When properly socialized as kittens, these cats can get along with other cats, dogs, and small pets. They’re also patient with children, making them great family cats and pets for first-time cat owners.


3. Siberian

siberian cat indoor_Joanna Gawlica-Giędłek_Pixabay
Image Credit: Joanna Gawlica-Giędłek, Pixabay
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 12-15 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Temperament: Affectionate, brave, easy to train

Siberians are medium-sized cats and are built to survive harsh winters. They have a dense, triple-layered coat that’s also water-resistant. If you’re interested in caring for a Siberian, get ready to adopt a rigid grooming schedule. These cats require consistent brushing and occasional trips to the groomer to maintain their luxurious coats and keep them mat-free.

Fortunately, Siberians have patient temperaments and are also easy to train, so grooming shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. At the same time, they have a strong and muscular build, so they’ll do well with having cat trees in the home and plenty of other places where they can climb and perch.


4. Ragdoll

ragdoll cat lying
Image Credit: Ria Peene, Shutterstock
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 10-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
Temperament: Calm, docile, patient

The Ragdoll is another cat breed with a luxurious long coat. They’re known to be one of the gentlest cat breeds and will even go limp, like a ragdoll, whenever they’re held. Just keep in mind that although Ragdolls won’t usually make a fuss or be very vocal, they have specific needs and preferences. So, it’s important for owners not to overlook these sweet and docile cats.

Ragdolls often enjoy being lap cats, and they tend to prefer sticking to the ground. So, they’re a good fit for elderly pet owners that may not want to keep up with the antics of a more active cat breed.


5. European Shorthair

european shorthair cat sitting on rock
Image Credit: Katzenfee50, Pixabay
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 12-15 pounds
Life Expectancy: 15-20 years
Temperament: Adaptable, social, good for first-time owners

The European Shorthair is one of the oldest cat breeds originating from Europe. While they’re fairly popular in Europe, they’re a rare sight to see outside of the continent. These cats may be a little shy initially, but they have friendly and warm personalities. They’re also pretty adaptable and easygoing, so they’re a great fit for first-time cat owners or families with young children.

European Shorthairs have mouser roots and have a taste for the outdoors. Some may become good escape artists, so make sure to have plenty of toys to keep them occupied and be extra cautious with keeping doors and windows shut.


6. Himalayan

Himalayan-cat_Shutterstock_Nattapong-Pongpiyapan
Image Credit: Nattapong Pongpiyapan, Shutterstock
Height: 17-19 inches
Weight: 7-12 pounds
Life Expectancy: 9-15 years
Temperament: Loyal, calm, shy

The Himalayan is a cross between the Persian and Siamese. This breed was originally recognized as an independent breed by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1957, but it was eventually recategorized as a variety of the Persian in 1984. Today, different cat organizations will have varying views of the Himalayan. Some will recognize it as a distinct cat breed, while others recognize it as a Persian variety.

Himalayans are loyal to their families, but they don’t have much patience with young children who may not know how to interact properly with cats. They don’t tend to be very social and would prefer to be left alone by strangers and guests in your home.


7. Ragamuffin

Ragamuffin-Cat_Kill_Baal_shutterstock
Image Credit: Kill_Baal, Shutterstock
Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 10-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Temperament: Gentle, good with children, family-oriented

Ragamuffins are large cats with sweet and gentle personalities. Many enjoy being lap cats and are easygoing and gentle with children. They can also get along with other pets pretty well.

Ragamuffins have long, soft coats that come in various colors and patterns. Fortunately, their coats are relatively low maintenance when compared to other longhaired cat breeds. They just need to be brushed a couple of times a week to remove loose fur and detangle hair.


8. Maine Coon

maine coon cat lying on the floor
Image Credit: Remark_Anna, Shutterstock
Height: 30-40 inches
Weight: 9-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 9-15 years
Temperament: Intelligent, gentle, easygoing

Maine Coons are large cats that have a laidback and easygoing nature. They enjoy being around human company, but they’re also independent and can adapt to different lifestyles. This cat breed is very intelligent and was originally bred to be mousers. So, Maine Coons have a fun time chasing toys, and many like learning new tricks.

Maine Coons have long, thick coats, but they don’t get tangled as easily as other longhaired cat breeds. However, they do need baths from time to time to keep their coats from getting too greasy.


9. Russian Blue

Russian blue cat striking a pose
Image Credit: Rob Rye, Shutterstock
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 7-12 pounds
Life Expectancy: 15-20 years
Temperament: Loyal, sweet, shy

Russian Blues are known for their shimmery blue-gray coats and eyes that turn green as they reach adulthood. They have fairly easy grooming needs and shed minimally, so they’re a popular breed amongst people with allergies.

These cats tend to become attached to one person. While they’re not aggressive, they do take some time to warm up to strangers and may prefer being by themselves in a separate room or secluded area whenever guests are in the house.


10. Cheetoh Cat

cheetoh cat on a leash
Image Credit: Lux Blue, Shutterstock
Height: 12-18 inches
Weight: 12-25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Temperament: Curious, intelligent, friendly

Cheetoh Cats are large domestic cats that were developed in 2001 by Carol Dryman. They mimic the appearance of cheetahs, but they’re a lot more social, and many love receiving attention from people.

Cheetoh Cats are very social and family-oriented, and they don’t do well being alone for long hours. They’re also very intelligent and inquisitive and require much attention and exercise. So, if you’re looking for a calm, independent cat, it’s best to look for a different breed. Cheetoh Cats need a lot of mental stimulation. They enjoy learning new tricks and many also learn to walk on a leash and enjoy being outdoors.

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Conclusion

The Bengal is the most popular cat breed in the UK this year. However, there are plenty of other cat breeds with wonderful personalities that make them great choices for first-time cat owners and families with children. So, we’re excited to see what cat breeds will receive more recognition and if this list will change in the next few years.


Featured Image Credit: Daniel Zopf, Unsplash

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