What Are the Friendliest Cat Breeds?

The more attached a cat is to its owner, the less willing it'll be to go outside.

Written and verified by the biologist Paloma de los Milagros.

Last update: 27 December, 2022

The majority of people believe that cats are highly independent animals that don’t enjoy socializing with people or other cats. However, this assumption isn’t entirely justified. In fact, many of them demand just as much attention as dogs. So today, let’s take a look at some of the friendliest cat breeds.

Lots of people aren’t big fans of cats, as they have a reputation for being shy and unfriendly. These prejudices, combined with their rather aggressive way of playing (often involving lots of teeth and claws) often lead people to choose more “trustworthy” pets.

However, while many cats do display this distant, aloof behavior, that doesn’t mean that all cats are the same. In fact, there are several breeds that are famous for their friendly and affectionate nature. Some even get on so well with their human owners, that they’re especially recommended for children, the elderly, or are even used as therapy animals.

Friendliest cat breeds from around the world

If there’s one breed that stands out for its loyal and affectionate nature, it’s the ragdoll. These quiet, laid-back lap cats love nothing more than hugs and strokes from their owners.

While they naturally show greater love toward family members, and often follow them everywhere, ragdolls are also trusting and friendly around strangers. They’re the perfect option for families with young children or other pets.

Unlike most other cats, ragdolls have an average lifespan of just 13 years. This is undoubtedly due to their large size, as they can weigh up to 20 lbs. However, their sweet, calm nature means that they’re unlikely to intimidate any visitors to the house.

The Persian cat is one of the most famous and popular breeds in the world. While they’re super laid back and love curling up on their owner’s lap, they aren’t quite as clingy as ragdolls.

Although they’re very affectionate animals, Persians also enjoy spending time playing, climbing and exploring every corner of their home. When it comes to how much freedom they need, they don’t usually demand to go outside for long periods of time, as they like to be close to their owners.

The Maine coon is one of the friendliest and most sociable cat breeds in the world. They’re the largest breed of domestic cat, and can weigh up to 18 lbs, earning them the nickname, “gentle giant”.

Maine coons are known to demand lots of affection, and will meow until you pay attention to them. They’re also characterized by their great intelligence, and their ability to get on well with children and other animals.

Affectionate and independent cats

Besides these three breeds, there are some others that enjoy spending time with their human companions, while still retaining much of their feline curiosity and free spirit. These traits shouldn’t be viewed as some kind of flaw. In fact, they can make them more suitable for people who don’t have much time to spend with their pets.

Also known as “meezers”, Siamese cats have a distinctive meow and a loud, rumbling purr. While their piercing gaze might seem enigmatic, or even cold, they love spending time with their owners.

However, this gentle nature is also combined with a strong independent streak, so all strokes and cuddles must be given on their terms. They can also be quite territorial, and hate moving house.

The Abyssinian cat

The Abyssinian cat is thought to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. They love company, and are extremely intelligent and sociable creatures.

However, unlike the other cats we’ve looked at in this article, they aren’t quite so keen to be picked up, stroked and cuddled. They alternate between racing around the house and napping for hours on end, so they’re the ideal animals to liven up your home.

When it comes to choosing your perfect cat breed, it’s important to be aware of how much time you’ll need to dedicate to your new pet. Because they love attention, many of these cats can feel lonely if left alone for too long, whether you’re at work or out with friends and family. It’s always best to choose a cat that suits your lifestyle, in order to ensure its happiness and welfare in the long run.