Discover the friendliest cat breeds with SHEBA®

While cats are often thought to be independent and indifferent, there is huge variation between cat breeds - and some are considered to be more friendly than others. In fact, the friendliest cat breeds have specific characteristics that define them as such. If you’re looking for a friendly cat, it’s important to choose the right breed for you and your family, while also considering your lifestyle and living environment. Sheba’s expertise in cat care can help with your decision. 

Below we have crafted a list of the most friendly cat breeds so whether you’re a first-time owner or looking for another feline companion, you can find the friendliest cat breed to bring home. By understanding which cat breed is best for you, you’ll not only enrich your own life, but also that of your new friend. 

Most friendly cat breeds

Having a feline friend in your life is bound to add warmth and joy to your life, and create a harmonious environment in your home. With their sociable and affectionate personalities, friendly cat breeds can bring families together, as well as provide company for individual and senior households. The secret to a thriving relationship with a cat is to know how to get a cat to like you.

Below is a list of 10 of the most friendly cat breeds.

1. Maine Coon

Maine Coons are known to be one of the friendliest cat breeds and make loyal companions, given their outgoing, playful and sociable nature. Although they’re larger in size, their gentle personality is perfect for families with small children. Since Maine Coons are quite intelligent, they need plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and alongside their long fur that needs regular grooming, there’ll be lots of opportunities for quality time to strengthen your bond.

2. Siamese

Siamese cats are also a top contender for the most friendly cat breeds, since they are extremely vocal and love to interact with their owners. With their chatty personalities, Siamese cats will let you know what’s on their mind, bringing life to quiet homes. These cats are ideal for both families or senior members, as they don’t like to be left alone for too long - unless you keep another Siamese cat for their company.

3. Abyssinian

Another cat breed with a friendly nature is the Abyssinian. Since they’re highly intelligent and playful they enjoy a lot of stimulation and interaction, which means they are a great companion to have around. Their playful nature means they need a lot of engagement from their human friends, so if you’re a homebird with tons of energy, you’ll be able to support their needs better.

4. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are one of the friendliest cat breeds around. They have a gentle and affectionate nature, which means you’ll be able to form a strong bond with your Ragdoll through plenty of quality time together. In fact, a Ragdoll cat is likely to wait and greet you at the door - not unlike dogs! Although they can be playful, they are generally quite relaxed compared to other cats, so great for calmer households. 

5. Sphynx

Sphynx cats are often misunderstood due to their hairless appearance, but in fact are extremely friendly and outgoing. Since they really value human interaction, they like to stay close to their owners - hence their reputation as ‘velcro cats’. Sphynx cats also have a silly side, which can be highly entertaining for families with children.

6. Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Forest Cats are known for their majestic physical traits, including long fur and large eyes. They have an extremely sociable nature, which is why they’re considered one of the friendliest cat breeds. Norwegian Forest Cats enjoy human connection and interact well with other pets too. With plenty of quality time, families can build a strong and lasting bond with this breed.

7. Burmese

Playful and energetic, Burmese cats love to spend time with their families engaging in different activities. They are highly intelligent too, which is why they’ll spend a lot of time either staring out the window or exploring corners of your home. Burmese cats are very comfortable around children, and will adapt to other pets in the home as well.

8. Birman

Known to be one of the most friendliest cat breeds, Birmans have plenty of traits that cat parents can enjoy. Birman cats are very sociable, whether it’s with people or animals, making them ideal for multi-pet homes. Their gentle and sweet nature makes Birman cats a wonderful companion for life, as long as they receive plenty of attention.

9. British Shorthair

British Shorthairs are known for their easy-going nature and friendly personality, which is why they are a great addition for families. They enjoy talking with their owners, letting them know what they like and dislike. British Shorthairs are playful yet calm, which means they are great to have around children. They are considered another one of the friendliest cat breeds.

10. Domestic Cat

Although not a specific breed, the domestic cat is one of the most commonly owned types of cat in the UK. With a range of characteristics, domestic cats make extremely friendly companions. They form strong bonds with their family members and enjoy both interaction and affection. They are also highly adaptable, which means they can thrive in different living environments.

Most affectionate cat breeds

The most affectionate cat breeds are characterised by their sweet, loving and gentle nature. They develop strong attachments with their owners and enjoy spending quality time together. Ragdoll and Birman cats are known for their affectionate nature. Just imagine coming home to one of these adorable cats, who have been patiently waiting for your company. Learn more about how cats show affection and love and you’ll soon realise how loving these cat breeds are.

Here is a list of some of the most affectionate cat breeds:

• Ragdoll
• Sphynx
• Maine Coon
• Siamese
• Bombay
• Tonkinese
• American Shorthair
• Birman

Cuddly cat breeds

Cuddly cats are known for just that: their extremely cuddly nature. They enjoy being physically close to their human companions and take up any opportunity to snuggle. Often referred to as lap cats, cuddly cat breeds like Maine Coons will curl up on you as soon as you sit down. It may be useful to understand clingy cats better so you know how to care for them.

If you’re looking for a feline friend that enjoys affection just as much as you do, check out our list of cuddly cat breeds:

• Ragdoll
• Siamese
• Maine Coon
• Birman
• Devon Rex
• Russian Blue
• Bombay
• Sphynx

What is the nicest house cat breed?

There are a few examples for the nicest house cat breeds, including Ragdolls, Maine Coons and British Shorthairs. These cats adapt well to indoor living and are generally house cats. They’re also known for their gentle and loving nature, making them wonderful companions that are easy to care for.

When it comes to choosing a house cat breed, there are certain characteristics that are important to ensure they are well-suited to staying indoors. House cats tend to be more laid-back and less active than other cat breeds, although it’s important there is ample space and opportunity for exercise and stimulation. 

They are also particularly affectionate and sociable, which means they like to spend quality time with their owners and receive plenty of attention. This does mean that owners will need more time for interaction and engagement too. You may even find you have a shadow following you around the home! Cats can engage in funny behaviours, for instance, if you’re wondering why cats lick you and if it’s normal, check out our article.

Choosing your perfect companion

As you’ll have noticed, some of the friendliest cat breeds can also be the most affectionate and cuddly cats too. If you’ve decided to bring home a friendly cat breed listed above, make sure you know how to properly care for a cat, so that you can begin a harmonious relationship with your new feline companion.