Whether you are looking for the friendliest cat breeds for you to choose from as your pets, or you just want to satisfy your curiosity, this article can be of great help.
Cats may have a reputation of being independent, snobby, or ambivalent, but once you’ve spent quality time with them, you’ll know that they are as affectionate as dogs.
Ask some cat owners around who are also dog parents, and they’ll say that their feline family members are as strongly bonded to them as their canine buddies.
Despite cats’ nonchalance, they hide unconditional love and affection beneath their proud and haughty façade. Hence, they are also worthy of being called man’s best friend, the same way dogs are popularly regarded as.
In fact, a 2019 study from The American Journal of Animal Health has shown that cats and dogs share similar ties – that cats are as attached to their humans as dogs are.
Nonetheless, we can’t also deny the fact that a cat’s or a dog’s personality can also influence the way they interact with the people around them, especially with their owners.
A kitten may love to kiss and snuggle with their pet parent, but as they grow, their personality could change. There’s a chance that they would rather spend most of their time sleeping, or grooming themselves or other cats in the household.
Having said all of these, cat breeds can naturally possess distinctive personalities – from being “silent, yet affectionate” to “curious and athletic” to “vocal and people oriented.”
And of course, there are known friendly cat breeds that are popular for their warm and loving nature, and loves spending time with their human family.
If you are looking for a new feline friend, below are some of the friendliest cat breeds that make an ideal feline companion.
Also Read: 500 Awesome Unisex Cat Names
Friendliest Cat Breeds That Make Great Family Members
1. Abyssinian
If you are looking for lap cats or felines that enjoy sitting on your lap, then, Abys are not for you. This ancient cat breed is more known for being family-oriented and very social.
They both love to play and to be laid back at the same time, which is expected of their relaxed nature. But still, they are just not fond of sitting or lying on anybody’s lap.
An Abyssinian cat is also friendly with strangers, as well as with other pets. And they are dog like in the sense that they love following their humans wherever they go inside the house.
They are also very eager to welcome you when you return home from work and start to check up on you now and then with their reassuring meows.
However, while these loving cats are devoted family members, they can easily get bored. So, make sure to keep them busy with interactive toys when you are not around to play or spend time with them.
And as much as possible, you should not leave them alone for long periods.
2. Birman
This friendly cat is considered an international favorite and possesses an ancient mythical back story originating from Burma, which is now known as Myanmar.
This cat breed was a goddess's first cat, whose earthy coat and skylight striking blue eyes were gifts after she defended her ruler's temple from bandits.
The Birman cat's sweet nature, loyalty, and affection for their humans are some of the sought-after qualities of this majestic and friendly cat breed.
The good-tempered nature of a Birman cat her a stable partner in multiple animal families.
3. Burmese
Burmese cats are affectionate and they want more family time than other breeds.
According to the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), Burmese cats are so irresistible that they've been known to easily attract many people who were originally not into felines. They are energetic – reminiscent of dogs – and they love to play fetch.
They enjoy being able to participate in their family's activities, and they love being in front of their human family members all day.
And if you are looking for a lap cat, then, consider taking home one or maybe several Burmese cats because they love curling up on the sofa, lying on your lap, and sleeping with you on your bed.
What's more, they are also great companions for children, and they get along well with many cats, and other pets.
4. Chartreux
Cats can be overly active and at times destructive, but not a Chartreux cat.
This loyal and loving cat always acts on their best behavior, and they are never loud and demanding. This cat is a friendly companion and becomes immediately devoted to their human family.
Guests and pets also enjoy the attention of Chartreux cats. Their quiet nature means that you won't hear anything other than the quiet “chirping” sound if anything happens.
So, you should keep an eye on them regularly to ensure that they are enjoying life safely as much as you do.
5. Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is closely related to Persian Cats, so, they also share the same sweetness and quiet personality.
However, these cute kitties enjoy playing a little more than a Persian cat and they also have substantially shorter hair which helps with managing their grooming schedule.
If you are looking for an affectionate and loyal cat, the Exotic Shorthair is one of the friendliest cat breeds in the world that you can welcome into your life.
6. Maine Coon
Touted as the “Gentle Giants” of the feline world, the Maine Coons can be easily mistaken for an aggressive, and aloof type of cat.
But in reality, they are the fluffiest and biggest fur babies that one can snuggle and cuddle in one’s lap. Hence, the term “Gentle” is attached to their popular moniker.
Again, don't let their huge size fool you: this gentle breed will not cause any problems with your family and they are great pets for kids, too. However, with their, long, thick, and silky fur, make sure that you’re ready to spend a long time grooming them.
But with their loving and sweet nature, we’re confident that you would not mind it as every grooming time can be an excellent bonding time for the two of you.
What’s more, Maine Coon cats are also very smart; so, make sure to keep their toy box full of puzzle toys. You’ll also be surprised how intelligent and dog-like they can be because they can learn to follow basic commands. And unlike most cats, they love playing in their water bowl and even in the shower.
7. Persian
Fluffy, cuddly, and undeniably cute and sweet, the Persian is not just one of the friendliest cat breeds the world is blessed with, but they are also one of the most popular felines.
They will often wait patiently for you to sit on your sofa, so they can jump and snuggle with you on your lap. Hence, they are the ultimate lap cat without a doubt.
Persian cats also have an incredibly relaxed nature. Hence, it's not surprising to know that they also love a quiet and calm environment.
They are also well-behaved and are also playful at times, but are never demanding. With their captivating look and sweet nature, they can easily steal your heart just by sitting back quietly and appearing pretty.
8. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are known for being one of the friendliest breeds around, and they are somewhat a new variety bred in the 1960s.
These sweet, laidback, and affectionate cats will never get tired of following you around when you are too occupied for hugs.
You may even find them greeting you at the front door, which is definitely a soothing way to welcome you after a long day at work.
After spending a couple of days with a Ragdoll cat, you may start wondering whether you've really adopted a cat or a dog.
And some say that they got their creative name from their love of lying on their pet parent's lap or being carried around the house like a baby.
Known for their sweet nature, they also get along well with small children, other cats, as well as other animals. They are also well suited pets for cat lovers living in a small apartment, or other small spaces.
9. Siamese
Siamese cats are known for their regal stature, captivating blue eyes, and majestic size. But there's definitely more to them beyond their physical attributes.
If you want to find a social feline who loves to chat, you'll enjoy the company of a Siamese cat. With their boisterous personality, there wouldn't be a time when they will go unnoticed in your household – and they love that.
They are sweet and affectionate, and they would meow endlessly to catch your attention.
10. Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is the happiest each time they are with their humans.
They are interested in all kinds of activities, but, the good ties with their human family members can be challenged when their routines are disturbed.
This means that you should refrain from moving furniture frequently, or worse, from moving houses or apartments now and then.
11. Sphynx
Although some may find them a bit unattractive, this hairless cat is one of the most adorable, sweetest, and friendliest cats in the world. Ask any Sphynx owner, and they would agree.
The sphynx has smooth skin that is produced by a genetic mutation (and not all Siamese cats are totally bare). Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them perfect pets for households with other pets and small children.
According to the CFA, they are known for performing silly antics and loves showing off for their pet parents.
Final Thoughts: How to Choose a Cat for Your Family?
The choice of a cat breed for your family is important as it can affect several different factors.
Although the breeds in this list are well known for their friendly personalities, each cat is different, so you might want to talk to a veterinarian, a breeder, or a shelter for further details about the particular breed that you're looking for.
At the end of the day, cat lovers know that you have a major part in shaping your pet's personality. Give them the love and affection that they need, and they will also love and cherish you back more than you’ll ever know.
