Affectionate
CAT BREEDS
The 11 Most
Affectionate cat
breeds do exist! The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes 71 unique cat breeds—here are some of the most affectionate.
1. ABYSSINIAN
They are social and love interacting with people. Best suited for more active families, the Abyssinian is loyal and loving.
MICHAEL KLOTH/GETTY IMAGES
2. AMERICAN
BOBTAIL SHORTHAIR
One of the rarer cat breeds available, these muscular felines are eager to please and plenty of fun. They’re also very smart!
NICO DE PASQUALE/GETTY IMAGES
3. BIRMAN
Known to follow their humans around, waiting for a lap to present itself so they can curl up and sleep, Birmans also adapt well to a variety of environments.
4. BOMBAY
The Bombay is a loyal, affectionate cat. They’ll trot behind
you throughout the day and
don’t like being left alone for
long periods of time.
ALEXANDRA JURSOVA/GETTY IMAGES
5. MAINE COON
Bonding with their humans is
their favorite activity. They are known for being gentle and
being able to adapt to a variety
of households and groups.
6. PETERBALD
Described as an “aggressively affectionate” cat by TICA . Not all Peterbalds are hairless; some have a short, fuzzy coat, and some have more traditional coats.
PHOTOALTO/ANNE-SOPHIE BOST/GETTY IMAGES
7. RAGDOLL
Great with kids and less vocal
than the Peterbald, these
giant fluff balls are always
down to snuggle or lounge.
KISZON PASCAL/GETTY IMAGES
8. SCOTTISH FOLD
This breed loves nothing more
than to curl up next to its
person. Encouraging playtime is
important so they don’t develop
weight-related health issues!
HEIKE KELM / EYEEM/GETTY IMAGE
9. SIAMESE
These cats enjoy attention
from everyone. But don’t leave
them isolated for too long!
Their athleticism & intelligence
can lead to boredom.
JEAN MICHEL SEGAUD/EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES
10. SIBERIAN
They might not greet you when
you come home or follow you around. But they will ask for quality time with you whether playing, grooming or cuddling.
11. TONKINESE
One of the most affectionate
breeds on our list, the Tonkinese
is a highly intelligent, joyful
cat. They’ll happily play with
kids or quietly sit on your lap.
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