Gentle and kind friends: 16 of the most affectionate cat breeds

Of all pets, cats are perhaps the most amazing and mysterious creatures. They maintain their independence, despite the fact that they live next to a person for many years.

First published - 05/07/2020

Photo: pixabay.com

Many owners of these animals notice that the pet does not recognize the owner in the person. Rather, cats recognize themselves as the main ones in the house. Even when they rub against us, it is not so much a way to express their affection as a desire to mark. After all, cats have glands around their faces. Their scent remains on the owner to indicate whose person it is.

Despite this, cats remain the most popular pets. After all, they are very smart and understanding creatures. The same parts of the brain are responsible for emotions in these animals as in humans. They feel our mood and are able to support us in difficult times or play when we are having fun.

Currently, there are about 200 breeds of domestic cats. They are all different, not only in appearance, but also in habits and character. Many people want to get an affectionate cat that can brighten up loneliness, will not offend the child and will simply allow itself to be pampered.

In our rating, we have selected those cat breeds that are recognized as the most affectionate, friendly and calm.

European Shorthair

The second name of this breed is the Celtic cat. They are sociable animals, but can be shy in new environments. These cats are calm and good-natured and do not require much attention. They can calmly remain alone for a while, but at the same time they love their owner very much. “Europeans” are distinguished by their intelligence and curiosity. They never show aggression towards people, they also treat children well, and especially love playing and running around with them.

Fourth place - Canadian Sphynx

Canadian Sphynx Not everyone will like the appearance of the Canadian Sphynx.
He is too different from the usual fluffy cats. A beardless muzzle, huge ears, long thin limbs, wrinkled skin and a hairless, lean body make this unique creature look like an alien. However, Sphynx owners claim that their pets are representatives of one of the most affectionate cat breeds. They establish a psychological connection with a person, allowing them to feel changes in the owner’s mood. Peaceful and intelligent creatures become so attached to people that when they find themselves alone, they become depressed. Hairless Sphynx cats need warmth and care. These cats are extremely sensitive to temperature changes. In the summer heat, you should not allow your pet to bask in the sun for a long time. In winter, it is better to dress the cat in warm overalls. Important! The opinion that keeping naked Sphynx cats is suitable even for allergy sufferers is fundamentally wrong. Attacks of suffocation are caused by the animal's acrid sweat, which is abundantly secreted by the skin in the form of a viscous coating.

Cornish Rex

A pet of this breed is perfect for those people who expect unconditional loyalty from a cat and that the pet will accompany them everywhere. These cats are human-oriented and simply cannot live without his company. They love to communicate with their owner, never show aggression and are very talkative. Cornish Rexes are very active pets; they love active games with running and jumping.

Second place – Maine Coon

Maine Coon A giant among its brothers, the Maine Coon resembles a small lynx rather than a house cat.
Its signature feature is its thick coat that repels water, thanks to which the animal does not freeze, even after being in the snow for a long time. The size of the majestic creatures is impressive. In 2013, representatives of the Genness Book of Records recorded an absolute record - the body length (from nose to tail) of an 8-year-old representative of the Stewie breed was 123 cm. But potential owners should not be embarrassed by its solid dimensions, sharp claws, impressive teeth and the stern look of attentive eyes. A tender heart beats in a wide chest. Furry giants are famous for their affectionate nature and sociability. Maine Coons demonstrate an easy-going and easy-going disposition to their owners. Fans of the breed note the pets' poise, high intelligence and ability to learn. Huge cats are indifferent to strangers, but they give kindness and affection to household members. They get along well with other pets.

Siamese

One of the most famous breeds. For a long time, its representatives lived only on the territory of the ancient state of Siam (existed until 1932) in Indochina. They lived in palaces and temples.

They appeared on European lands thanks to a pair of cats given by the King of Siam to the British Consul. First, cats set foot on British lands, then they appeared in the States. Initially, Siamese were very similar to Thai cats.

Modern representatives of the breed have a more elongated and refined silhouette.

They have a cheerful and active disposition. Very fast and smart. They love to explore everything. They love communication and “talk” a lot themselves. They are gentle and affectionate with their owners, but can be too annoying and persistent.

They can persistently demand attention to their person. Separation from the owner is tolerated calmly.

Burmanskaya

These cats are distinguished by their combination of amazingly beautiful appearance and excellent character. And it’s not for nothing that this is one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. Burmese are ready to participate in all family affairs, sociable and friendly. The breed's characteristic feature is the almost complete absence of aggression, so the pets get along with animals of other species.

Burmese are completely calm towards children and are ready to tolerate pranks and willingly play with them. They prefer active and active games. But after playing hide and seek or catching up, the Burmese will happily sleep in the arms of its owner. The Burmese cat is people-oriented, so it is very difficult to tolerate loneliness.

Exotic shorthair

These cats with short, plush fur and large eyes are very friendly and simply love to be in the company of their owners. They get along well with all family members. But the truth is, if new people or pets appear, these cute cats will take some time to accept them.

Despite his disposition towards all family members, an exotic usually singles out one person for himself, who will become the main one for him. It is to him that he will show his devotion and loyalty. These cute cats absolutely cannot stand loneliness, and are ready to accompany their owner on any trips and travels.

Snow shu

Magnificent, but still quite rare representatives of the Snowshoe breed, which literally translates as “snow slipper,” have won the recognition of many animal lovers. Cute cats with white paws embody all the qualities of a truly domestic and affectionate cat.

Snowshu are very attached to their owner, and subtly sense his mood. If the owner is sad, the cat will try to calm him down by purring and caressing him. Well, if he is in a good mood, he will take measures to involve him in joint games.

Snowshoes are very smart, highly intelligent and well trained in commands and tricks. Representatives of the breed interact well with children and also get along well with other types of pets.

Manx

An unusual breed of cat originally from the British Isle of Man. It can perhaps be considered the best breed for children. Why? Due to the lack of a tail.

Breeds such as the Bombay cat, Scottish Fold, American Curl, Devon Rex, and Singapore cat also get along well with children.

This breed has a natural mutation of the spine. As a result, the tail is either completely absent, or present in the form of a stump hidden under the fur, or very short. In some cases, the animal may have a standard length tail.

As one legend goes, Manx cats appeared on the island when the ship of the Spanish Armada sank. The cats that were on the ship swam to the shore and there they gave rise to the breed.

The tailless gene is dominant, so tailless parents will definitely have tailless children. The absence of a tail does not at all prevent the animal from hunting - and it does it perfectly.

Very cheerful, playful and active. They easily tolerate communication with children, since they cannot pull their tail, the most vulnerable part. They will adequately withstand the attack of even several children at once. Very patient and peaceful.

Did you know? In 1970 and 1975, commemorative coins with the image of a Manx cat were issued on the British Isle of Man.

Abyssinian

These beautiful “sunny” cats have an independent character, they are inquisitive, active and playful. They are very attached to a person, they love everyone in the family, but there will definitely be a person who is most beloved, the most important person for the cat.

It is to him that the cat is more attached than others, and will miss him in case of separation. Abyssinians love to be petted. They often cuddle up to their owners, purr loudly and lightly bite their hands, thus expressing their love and affection.

They, like dogs, run to meet their owner from work. And then they will relentlessly follow him, like a shadow, so as not to lose him from sight. They love to sleep in bed, that is, they are ready to be close to you even at night.

Japanese Bobtail

Japanese bobtails are completely unsuitable for the role of a “couch” cat. They are very energetic, curious and inquisitive, and are also known for their amazing jumping ability. These are fidgety and passionate hunters, which is something their owners need to remember. After all, even on a balcony or window, hunting for a fly, they completely forget about everything and can accidentally jump out, getting injured.

Bobtails do not like strangers and do not make contact, but in their family they are very affectionate and sociable. Japanese bobtails need to be provided with physical exercise, otherwise, if their ebullient energy does not find a way out, the cats may show nervousness and unusual aggression.

Mr. Cat recommends: TOP 5 breeds for young children

Young children often mistake a cat for a toy. There are not many animals that can patiently endure not always gentle treatment.

Napoleon (Minuet)

Miniature pets were received quite recently; the breed was approved only in 2015 and is still in development. Delicate creatures with short legs, thick long hair and a very cute “baby face” have good health and a wonderful character. Resembling a soft toy in appearance, the babies immediately fell in love with children.

The ancestors of these cats are Persians and Munchkins. But the bad traits of their character are not at all characteristic of the Napoleons, namely the arrogance of the former and the belligerence of the latter. This is the best breed if there are children in the family, and the thing is that even in adulthood they are ready to play literally for hours on end, and never get angry, do not bite or scratch. Just angels, aren't they? Yes, these cats do not have conflicts, but at the same time they become attached to their owner forever and experience separation from him very poorly. They are very sociable and can make friends with other animals, cats, dogs.

These cats are very easy to train, they are obedient and attentive, and, despite their short legs, they are very active. Perhaps their only drawback, excessive gullibility, will go into the arms of anyone, you just have to call them.

About Napoleons.

Ragamuffin

The name of this breed means “Raggedy” and is due to the fact that ordinary street cats participated in the selection. The original working title "Cherub" would have suited them better - the pet's character is admirable. He is simply ideal in terms of the degree of his love and affection for a person.

Friendly towards other pets, but must occupy a dominant position. The hunting instinct and any manifestations of aggression are completely absent. This pet is always happy to play with children and allows itself to be treated like a doll or soft toy. It is important that children understand that this living creature needs to be treated with care. Ragamuffin takes it hard when he is punished. To avoid prolonged stress on your pet, he should always be handled with care, given his touchy nature. He absolutely cannot stand separation from his owner; you cannot be separated from this delicate pet for a long time.

About ragamuffins.

Bambino

Another representative of the dwarf breed is a hairless cat. The hybrid of the Canadian Sphynx and short-legged Munchkins, which is still an experimental breed, quickly won people's hearts.

Bambino is one of those cats that will remain a kitten until their last breath. Extravagant appearance is combined with a lively and sociable character. Kind, affectionate, inquisitive, sociable and intelligent pets are great friends with everyone, both people and animals. They love games very much, they will never scratch or offend a child.

Read more about bambino cats.

Snow shu

The “snow slipper” is so named for the white “socks” on its paws. She combined the features of her two parents, namely the Siamese and the American Shorthair, and turned out to be completely unique. She is balanced and absolutely non-conflict, very smart and easy to learn, she easily opens any door in the house. He loves his owner very much, but without being too intrusive. Not as talkative as the Siamese. Very playful at any age.

They will quickly get to know everyone, and, of course, will charm both family members and guests. Just look at them! They patronize their owner, licking them, trying to warn about some danger. They adore children and are ready to take part in noisy fun at any time of the day or night.

Read about Snowshoe cats.

Canadian Sphynx

The first breed of hairless cats bred by people surprised us with their docile nature. Sphinxes always and completely obey their owner - this is an unquestioned authority. But when communicating, they will persistently look into the eyes - this is their peculiarity. They love to swim, sunbathe in the sun and freeze for a long time in the “thinker’s pose,” sometimes taking awkward body positions and thinking. Sociable and clean. They love to sit on their owner's shoulder and sleep next to him, wrapped in a blanket. Children are loved and treated as if they were their own children. Sphinxes make excellent nannies for infants. They are distinguished by a complete lack of aggression.

We recommend an article about the differences between the Canadian and Don Sphynxes.

Scottish lop-eared

Scottish Fold cats are popular all over the world. To a large extent, this is due not only to her cute appearance, but also to her balanced temperament. Representatives of this breed are noble, intelligent and quick-witted. They have self-esteem and consider themselves absolutely equal members of the family.

These cats are sensitive, have a particularly hard time with loneliness, and can even become depressed. Therefore, breeders do not recommend keeping them for people who are away from home for a long time.

Fold-eared cats are great for families with children, since they will never fight off a pestering baby with their claws, but will only try to go to a place inaccessible to him.

Ragdoll

The name of these cats is translated as “rag doll”. This is due to the fact that in the hands of the owners the cat completely relaxes, and there is a feeling as if in the hands of a toy, and not a living creature. The character of Ragdolls is just as soft: they have absolutely no aggression, these cats are attached to all family members, not singling out anyone more than the rest. They love to sit in your arms, they are affectionate and trusting. It is very important to communicate and pay attention to such a pet every day, since they suffer greatly from loneliness.

Munchkin

Munchkin is the intellectual of the cat world. They are distinguished by intelligence and high intelligence, thanks to which they are excellent learners. These cats are very sociable and patient, and these qualities help them get along with other cats and dogs living in the house. Munchkins are active and inquisitive, always trying to be in the center of events. Short-legged cats are characterized by an absolute lack of aggression; they are affectionate and good-natured pets.

Munchkins have a very cute feature - the manner of sitting on their hind legs in a “column” position. At these moments, these cats resemble bunnies or kangaroos. They are also kleptomaniac cats; they tend to steal small things, so it is better to hide valuable items from them.

Russian blue

Cats of this breed are distinguished by their quiet disposition: they almost never meow loudly. The character is calm and calm, and the cats are also quite independent. That is why, despite their warm affection for their owners, they can quite easily be alone at home.

These cats get along well with children. But if the child bothers her for a long time, he will try to hide from him in some secluded place.

Cats get along well with other pets in the house. But friendship with decorative rodents will not work, since cats of this breed have especially strong hunting instincts. So, according to the Russian Blue cat, there is absolutely no place for rodents, wild and domestic, in the house and on the property.

Criteria for choosing a cat breed for a family with children

When choosing a cat for a child, parents should take into account several criteria: the animal’s temperament, difficulty in grooming, sociability, “talkativeness,” activity, noise . If your child is allergic but really wants a furry friend, you should pay attention to hypoallergenic breeds.

Having a cat as a child's first animal has a number of advantages.:

1. Teaches you to take responsibility for a living being . Children get used to the daily ritual of caring for a pet: changing the water in the bowl, measuring out the amount of dry food, cleaning the tray, caring for the fur.
2. Instills skills in proper handling of animals , teaches love and respect.
3. Helps cope with stress after a long school day.
4. Teaches how to manage aggression .
5. Makes children healthy . Scientists have proven that having a cat in the house inhibits the development of asthma. With constant contact with a cat, a protective immune response is developed, which reduces the risk of colds.

The cat does not have to be purebred; you can take a kitten from the street or from an already domesticated yard cat . Such animals are united by a kind and flexible disposition, lack of aggression and thirst for revenge. Of course, some outbred kittens have difficulties with toilet training, but a systematic approach and persistence will help overcome the problem.

It is important not to forget about examination by a veterinarian , timely vaccination and deworming of foundlings in order to prevent children from contracting infectious diseases.