Friendliest Cat Breeds: 10 Friendliest Cat Breeds For The Whole Family

When looking to welcome a new cat into your home, most people want a pet that will show love, affection, and friendliness towards them. After all, you don’t want to adopt a feline friend only for it to become your feline enemy.

This is especially the case with families who would prefer a sociable and friendly cat to be around their children.

Fortunately, many breeds have a track record of being far more friendly than others, so you can significantly increase your chances of getting a friendly cat.

So, let’s take a look at some of the friendliest cat breeds out there and which we would recommend as your next pet.

Top Ten Friendliest Cat Breeds

In this list, we have picked out our top ten friendliest cat breeds for you to choose from, as well as helpful information about each friendly cat breed. Enjoy!

1. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the larger domestic cats out there, but perhaps that is because of how much friendly energy they carry around with them. You can think of them as the huggable bears of the cat world or the friendly giants.

The Maine Coon is generally friendly towards all people, is good with children, and even gets along with other cats and dogs. That makes it the dream cat for a family home.

It is very common for the Maine Coon to hop onto your lap and curl up for a long snuggle. You will know they are content by their loving purrs and chirps.

Maine Coons are also very popular for their trainability, which often draws comparisons to dogs. Believe it or not, you can teach Maine Coons some basic commands.

Another thing that sets the Maine Coon out from other cat breeds is their fascination with water. While others may avoid it at all costs, this breed will often play with their water and don’t mind a bath.

READ MORE: Norwegian Forest Cat vs. Maine Coon: What are Their Similarities and Differences?

2. Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is one of the oldest breeds of a cat on the planet, which experts trace back to the Egyptians. In the modern day, the Abyssinian is among the friendliest cat breeds you can invest in.

They are known for always remaining within a few feet of their favorite owners, ensuring you can always reach out and give them a pet. They love to be the center of your world and are incredibly clever so they can even learn tricks.

The Abyssinian is perfect for a family home where there is always someone around and something going on, but not ideal if you can’t afford to give your cat your full attention all day, every day.

In general, the Abyssinian is happy to go with the flow and do what you’re doing. They are even known to climb up and perch on your shoulder if you let them!

3. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll breed is one of the friendliest lap cat breeds you could wish for and love nothing more than following you around the home and enjoying your company.

If you come home from work in the evening, they will likely be waiting to welcome you back beside the front door. If you are chilling on the couch watching a movie, they will probably be snuggled right there with you.

They are particularly known for having a very pleasant personality and temperament, making them perfect family cats if you have younger children.

They also tend to get along with other cats and dogs. So, if you’re looking for a laid-back but friendly cat to serve as your loyal sidekick, look no further than the Ragdoll.

4. Siamese

While the Siamese cat is a household name for its striking beauty and piercing blue eyes, it is actually known to be one of the friendliest breeds you can buy too. If you wanted to describe one breed as ‘the people cat,’ it would be very easy to make a case for the Siamese.

Unlike some of the others on this list, the Siamese are very vocal cats, meaning they love being around you and chatting even more. Your Siamese will snuggle up with you on the couch for movie night, but they might talk through the climactic scene.

They become very attached to the people they love and are not afraid to show that affection to you. The Siamese not only gets along with other cats, but the feline company actually calms them down while you are away.

RELATED: All About the Seal Point Siamese

5. Scottish Fold

Scottish Fold cats must have one of the most adorable faces in the entire animal kingdom; that alone is enough reason to adopt them! But the Scottish Fold actually happens to be just as adorable as it looks.

Unlike many other cats on this list, the Scottish Fold does not demand your attention and time. They are still loving, affectionate, friendly, and loyal, but they are also quiet cats.

They don’t like being left at home alone, so they are best for busy family homes or houses with other cats or dogs to keep them company.

They can be playful at times, but they would often much rather have a snooze on your lap. So if you are looking for an amiable cat that also happens to be more laid back, the Scottish Fold could be the one for you.

6. Sphynx

Let’s give some love to the infamous hairless cat, the Sphynx. They may be striking to look at, but they will blow you away even more with their friendly and adorable attitude. If you are prepared to take on a cat that loves to be the center of attention, look no further than the Sphynx.

They are known to perform and even cause trouble to get the attention of the ones they love. Their playful personality is all about spending time with you and making you smile, but they also love a snuggle when they have tired themselves out.

7. Burmese

The CFA claims the Burmese have a track record of turning people who don’t like cats into feline fanatics! They are often compared to dogs due to their high energy and playful personality but are also extremely intelligent.

They will likely follow you wherever you go in the home and are always up for a cuddle. The Burmese love to sleep on the end of your bed if you allow them to.

They are suitable for children and get along well with other cats and dogs. In short, they are just friendly to everyone!

8. Persian

There is a reason the Persian cat is among the most popular breeds in the world. Their loving yet gentle personalities have won over thousands of owners out there.

Persian cats prefer a quiet lifestyle rather than a loud and chaotic family home. They are more than happy curled up on your lap and rarely demanding your attention.

Essentially, they love being around you, but on your terms. They even like to chat with you via a series of adorable chirps! So if you are looking for a laid-back and gentle companion, the Persian is a great place to start.

9. Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair has many of the same traits as the Persian because the breeds are closely related. So if you love the sound of the Persian, the Exotic Shorthair will likely be a big hit too.

They are sweet and quiet, just like the Persian, but also have a bit more of a taste for playtime. They also don’t boast the same long coat as the Persian – so it comes down to whether you prefer one appearance over the other, but the Exotic Shorthair is easier to groom.

The Exotic Shorthair is another prime example of a friendly, loving, and laid-back household companion.

10. Bengal

There are few breeds out there that can rival the beauty of the Bengal, which is why they come with a pretty hefty price tag. But, if you look at it as an investment in friendliness, the Bengal is worth every penny.

They are great with children and get along with other cats and dogs while also being gentle and loving. They love to follow you around and enjoy your company but are less likely to curl up on your lap.

They are actually known to have a rather weird personality and are always looking to discover new things. So if you want a friendly little detective in your home, the Bengal is a great choice.

READ MORE: Things You Need to Know Before Buying Silver Bengal Cat

FAQ

Article Sources:

1. Hsu, Christine. “Friendliest and Grumpiest Cats Revealed in Study.” Medical Daily, 3 Dec. 2012, medicaldaily.com/friendliest-and-grumpiest-cats-revealed-study-243755.