Cats are an ideal low maintenance pet. On top of other benefits, their most alluring quality may be that they are lower maintenance and cost less than dogs, who need walking, training, grooming, and more toys and attention. Cats are also perfect for apartments and city living as they don’t make too much noise. If you’re ready to add a new furry feline to your family, then check out the 10 most popular cats to own now.
Ragdoll
With deep, penetrating eyes that are captivating and cause many people to fall in love, it is no surprise that Ragdoll cats are the most popular breed of feline in America. While most cats are known for being prissy, Ragdolls are very gentle pets that aren’t excitable, preferring to remain calm and affectionate, and are commonly compared to dogs for their loving devotion to their owners. They’ll even follow you around the house. One cool thing about these cats is that they start life pure white but will develop unique patterns and colors after a week or two.
Maine Coon
The largest of all house cats, the Maine Coon can grow to be 40 inches. They are often called “gentle giants” because they’re friendly and affectionate. For this reason, they are highly sought after and are more expensive compared to other breeds. An interesting fact about this breed is the first cloned cat was a Maine Coon named Little Nicky.
Bengal
Bengals have unique markings that make them look very similar to a tiny leopard which causes them to be one of the most famous and expensive cat breeds. Because of this, they look like fierce jungle felines, but are incredibly sweet family pets. Bengal cats are trainable, smart, athletic, fun to watch and play with, loyal, and love the water—all great traits for a family pet. They’re also vocal, communicative, and social with people. If they’re introduced early on to dogs or other cats in the home, they can bond well and socialize.
Siamese
Siamese cats make excellent pets, particularly if they fit in with your lifestyle preferences. They are active, playful, friendly, highly inquisitive, and intelligent. Siamese cats can even be taught to play fetch, give high fives, and even walk on a leash. If you have plenty of time to spend at home, then Siamese cats are an ideal choice.
British Shorthair
A playful, affectionate cat, the British Shorthair is fiercely loyal and a good companion for single people. Besides being treasured for their easygoing attitude, British shorthairs are beloved for their thick, dense coats that come in almost any color or pattern. Daily brushing of the British Shorthair is important, especially during seasonal changes when their coat is thickening or thinning.
Balinese
Slender and elegant, the Balinese cat is long and lean; they are muscular, yet not stocky. Balinese are known for their intelligence, their friendly and playful nature, and their striking beauty. They’re very amusing animals that are always outgoing. Balinese cats are known for being very talkative and demanding; expect yours to communicate with you about everything. These cats rarely stop being vocal and they’re very sensitive to your speaking as well. A harsh tone can instantly hurt their feelings. An interesting fact is the breed arose because of a spontaneous genetic mutation in pure bred Siamese cats that caused the cats to develop a longer coat type.
American Shorthair
A medium-sized cat with heavy bones, the American Shorthair is a breed that’s completely devoted to its owner. They are known to be gentle, sweet, and very tolerant. Additionally, they are incredibly adaptable animals that do great with other pets, making them one of the best felines for households that already have other pets. These cats have been around since settlers first femigrated to America from Europe.
Persian
With their trademark flat noses and woolly coats, Persian cats are undeniably distinctive. The Persian is a perfect companion pet as they are not super active but are very smart and even-tempered. Great with families and children, they love to lounge around the house and love to be fussed over, making for ideal lap cats. They also adapt well to new surroundings and are OK with busy or even boisterous households. They are perfect for a full house with active kids.
Tabby
Tabby cats make excellent pets for young owners because of their well-known friendly, cuddly, and social personalities. All domestic pet cats can make good family pets. However, the tabby cat is renowned as an especially great ‘first cat’ pet for kids. If you’re looking for a cat that’ll constantly be on your lap and wants to follow your every move, this could be the breed for you.
Russian Blue
If you are a first-time pet owner, or must work a lot, or have children who would like to have a pet, a Russian Blue kitten or cat might be a great choice. They are playful, entertaining, and beautiful. Russian Blue cats are curious but calm, affectionate but not clingy, and very smart. They can be shy at first, but they are playful and loving once they feel comfortable. While they are happy living with families and even other pets, Russian Blue cats tend to form a deep connection with only one person.
There are so many cat breeds out there and so many wonderful cats looking for homes. Consider adopting a feline friend to complete your family, whether you’re single or in a multi-children household. A furry companion can become a central heart to any home!
