The character of a cat depends not only on the breed, but also on the methods of education, however, natural characteristics are the basis for the formation of behavioral reactions and largely determine the individual characteristics of the animal.
Of all the variety of cat breeds, there are often cats with an easy-going, friendly and calm temperament. Such animals prefer to lie on the bed and camp all day. Yes, pets cannot boast of being particularly active and playful, but they are, as a rule, kinder and more affectionate, easily adapt to new conditions and get along well with all family members, including small children.
In addition, animals do not require constant attention, have little interest in their surroundings, can entertain themselves on their own and do not create problems. Calm pets work best with equally phlegmatic and balanced owners, and are also ideal for busy people who cannot devote enough time and attention to a “live” pet that is greedy for the owner’s affection. Such murkas usually do not show anger or aggression (with normal upbringing), allow themselves to be petted, can calmly lie next to a person and sing their monotonous, cozy “songs”. Let's get to know these cute creatures better.
Persian cat
This is not only one of the most popular breeds with a specific appearance, but also a very affectionate, gentle and good-natured animal. Thanks to their calm disposition, Persians easily tolerate loneliness and never become intrusive. At the same time, these fluffy snub-nosed cats are not at all averse to taking a nap on their owner’s lap.
Representatives of the breed are quite timid, so when they see a stranger they hide in a secluded place. However, despite their extreme caution and mistrust, cats easily adapt to new conditions.
The ideal home environment for Persians includes quiet, comfort and a strict daily routine. Fluffy lumps are so inactive that sometimes it seems as if you are too lazy to soften them. They spend most of their time in a bed, and playing and running around the apartment is not their hobby at all. True, the pussy will never refuse the offer to run for a candy wrapper. Also, snub-nosed murkas do not tend to go outside, but for entertainment they are content with observing the world around them from a window or sitting on a windowsill.
The breed shows amazing kindness and friendliness: even the owner will offend his pet, he will not be offended, sad or angry for a long time, will not try to take revenge, but, on the contrary, will gladly accept an apology.
Interestingly, when a pet wants to attract attention, it sits opposite its owner and looks carefully into his eyes.
Tips for choosing, recommendations and nuances for keeping cats with a gentle character
When choosing a future mustachioed family member, pay attention to the characteristics of the breed, temperament, care habits, and also take into account your personal preferences.
Calm cats are best suited to people with similar temperaments. Persian, Norwegian Forest, American Shorthair prefer not to waste time talking. Some cats are too lazy to meow again. If you are a quiet person yourself, pay attention to these breeds. Ragdolls, on the contrary, love to talk, but they do it softly and unobtrusively, quietly purring in their gentle voice.
The Persian is a pillow cat that you will always find in its usual place. Siberian and Russian cats also prefer to rest in a secluded place and do not like to bother their owners. However, they themselves do not tolerate being disturbed in vain. Lazy cats are an excellent choice for phlegmatic people.
If you need a cat that can be squeezed and stroked, choose the Don and Canadian Sphynx, Manx, Ragdoll, Burmese or Persian.
All breeds of cats with a balanced character get along with other pets and get along with children. They are not prone to aggression and never use their claws.
As for the care and maintenance of cats with a gentle character, everything depends on the length of the coat, love or dislike of water procedures, as well as the physiological characteristics of the breed.
Long-haired cats with a thick undercoat need to be brushed regularly, unless you constantly go around picking up clumps of hair in corners. Short-haired cats are easier to care for. It is enough to collect dead hairs once a week with a brush, rubber mitten or furminator.
Ears and eyes are examined once a week and dirt is removed with a damp cotton pad or napkins. The special structure of the Persian skull, namely the shortened muzzle and flat nose, require special attention. It is important to promptly remove discharge from the eyes to prevent infection.
Maine Coons love to swim, which makes their owners very happy. After all, as you know, giving a cat a bath is quite a quest. Manxies are also not afraid of water, so you can bathe them periodically if they don’t mind.
For washing, it is better to use shampoos with neutral pH. For example, for the soft fur of Persians, pet stores have a range of products for bathing and caring for their airy coat.
Preventive examination by a veterinarian, timely vaccination and proper nutrition will help keep your pets healthy.
Pixiebob
A miniature lynx in all its glory. But, despite its menacing, wild appearance, the pixicob’s character is the opposite - reverent, friendly, calm. The descendants of the forest cat represent the golden mean: they do not move around under their feet, but at the same time they are not averse to frolic (for example, they simply love to play tag).
Balance is observed in many other things. For example, pixiebobs, although calm, are not at all shy. Not only are they not afraid of strangers, but they are even drawn to strangers and strive to make friends with them. In addition, the “lynx” does not choose a favorite in the family - the cat gives its tenderness to everyone without exception.
Pixicobs do not show aggression or anger, but they are always ready to fight back if necessary.
To overpay or not to overpay?
When purchasing a cat, you may come across different prices, and in different regions they differ significantly, so the question arises, why in some places they give purebred cats for absolutely nothing, and in other places they ask for fabulous money for them? This all depends on several factors:
- Each nursery must maintain its own brand. It’s the same as with selling things: branded clothing costs much more than similar Chinese products. The nursery will provide you with documents for the kitten, which will indicate its pedigree, and this is very important if you want to reproduce the animal in the future. Of particular value are show-class kittens whose parents have won prizes in shows and exhibitions. If this is not important to you, then you shouldn’t overpay.
- Compliance with breed standards. Experts will immediately suspect incest in the kitten’s appearance. This is called a defect, a deviation from the breed. Sometimes such defects can occur in a kitten of purebred parents. But still, it is not suitable for exhibitions, unlike its successful brothers and sisters, and therefore its price will be much lower.
- The age of the kitten also plays a role. It is best to sell it at the age of 2-3 months. Older kittens are considered “grown up” and are cheaper.
- Sometimes it happens that a kitten is sick, and the owners try to sell it quickly while the disease is not noticeable. In this case, the price may also be low.
Javanese cat tolerates loneliness without owners during the day
There are different cases, for example, at the poultry market, a purebred kitten can be bought for ridiculous prices. Owners sometimes don’t know how to quickly get rid of their offspring. If you are not interested in exhibitions, medals and regalia, then this is also a good option for purchasing a furry miracle. It’s up to you to choose which cat is best to have in your apartment.
Important! If you want a cat to perfectly suit your lifestyle, then it is better to take an animal from breeders.
They will tell you which cat is best to have in your apartment and select a pet for you, taking into account your interests. But it’s worth talking about your wishes in more detail so that there are no disappointments later.
For example, it is very important to know how long you will be away, since some breeds cannot tolerate being alone, it is also important whether you have enough time to care for the cat, this is important for long-haired breeds, whether you plan to have offspring, etc.
Ragdoll has an easy character
A good breeder is also interested in ensuring that his kitten ends up in kind and caring hands. It may take time for you to choose the right option, but if your desires and capabilities coincide, you will gain a reliable friend for life.
Ragdoll
These cats are rightfully considered the calmest and most docile among all cat breeds. Affectionate and gentle creatures easily find a common language with all family members and, moreover, simply love to sleep in an embrace with their owner. They are similar to dogs in many ways, for example, they respond very readily to their name and always readily come when called. Playfulness and affection for the owner, who for the Ragdoll is the center of the universe, also gives it a resemblance to domestic dogs. Indeed, ragdolls literally follow a person’s heels and take part in all his affairs with great interest.
Representatives of this breed react calmly to strangers, get along well with children, and behave normally with other pets. Cats quickly adapt to new conditions and are well socialized.
Ragdolls are so relaxed that when you pick them up, they seem to “flow.” That is why they are often called “rag dolls”, and it is from this phrase that the name of the breed “Ragdoll” comes from (literally translated from English – “rag doll”). “Limp” in the owner’s arms, the fluffy beauty thoroughly enjoys the attention and love for her person.
The moderately lazy and phlegmatic creature has one big drawback - the inability to group itself when falling. Therefore, the pet must be carefully lowered to the floor, and not thrown out of your hands. It is also necessary to keep an eye on the windows and the balcony and try to keep them closed as much as possible, otherwise the unlucky “climber” will definitely jump out and will not be able to land normally. If they fall, ragdolls have very little chance of surviving.
In order for your pet to feel comfortable, you need to take into account its subtle mental organization. The fact is that cats of this breed do not like conflicts and, if they sense a brewing scandal in the family, they immediately hide in a secluded place. You should not raise your voice at ragdolls, as they perceive aggression and screams very acutely and eventually lose their appetite.
Since animals are strongly attached to their owners, they find it difficult to endure loneliness. If the owner is away from home for a long time, the ragdoll will become sad and may even die. Therefore, it is best to take a cat with you when traveling, especially since the pet easily and calmly tolerates a change of environment.
What determines a cat's character?
Undoubtedly, the breed of a cat affects its character. Before getting a pet, we advise you to study the information and consult with the breeder. Character traits are inherited from generation to generation. After all, a breed is a group of animals that were selected for specific characteristics.
Owners of purebred cats will tell you that the British, for example, do not like to sit on their hands, but are not averse to frolicking with their owner. Canadian Sphynxes are loving and sociable creatures, and Ragdolls allow you to do whatever you want with them, and never use their claws.
Despite the fact that character is transmitted genetically, each kitten is individual. Hypothetically, you can look at a mother cat and imagine how your pet will grow up. Babies adopt the habits of their parents, so if one of them behaves warily around people, then the kittens will grow up distrustful.
Life experiences also influence a cat's personality. This applies more to yard animals. If Murka has been bullied on the street, it will be extremely difficult to gain her trust.
Socialization is another factor that determines the character of cats. It is important to address this issue as early as possible. The kitten needs to be shown who he can trust and who he can be friends with - otherwise he will remain wild. It is important to introduce your baby to people and other animals before the age of four months. At an early age, an idea of the surrounding world is formed, which undoubtedly influences the formation of the animal’s personality.
British scientists from the University of Lincoln have found that not only dogs are able to copy human behavior - cats can also do this, but in slightly different ways.
Experts analyzed more than 3,000 families in which cats live: they assessed the character of the animal and its owners, state of health, habits, way of life, and tendency to gain excess weight. In the course of research, it was possible to establish that the pets of people suffering from increased anxiety also demonstrated behavioral disorders: cats scratched furniture, were extremely nervous, and gained excess weight.
By the way, such problems were most often identified in purebred animals. According to researchers, pets are rarely or never allowed outside due to fears for their lives. Cats that have the opportunity to walk outside have enough physical activity and “social contact” feel calmer and look healthier.
Such conclusions look strange in the current realities, because purebred cats are rarely allowed to walk in the yard, especially if the owners live in a high-rise building on the 25th floor. In addition, it is dangerous for a castrated cat to walk on the street - he simply will not be able to stand up for himself and gain a foothold in the hierarchy of yard “mustachioed bandits.” Do not forget about the danger of contracting an infectious disease. In any case, free range is a dangerous thing for both the cat and its owner.
Other scientists' conclusions are less dubious. It's about the atmosphere in the family. Undoubtedly, calm owners have animals that are more sociable and playful and rarely suffer from psychosomatic disorders. Cats are capable of adopting the traits of their owners, so their environment has a huge influence on the formation of their character.
Conventionally, cats can be divided according to behavior and temperament into five types:
- A human cat shares space, home, and everyday life with people. This type of dog loves to gently “butt” its owner with its head, lie on its knees, massage with its paws and purr. A kind of therapy cat, in harmony with the outside world. The more human warmth and attention she receives, the better she feels.
- The hunting cat has innate hunting skills and is happy to demonstrate them. She is agile and fast. Her movements are clear and swift. The huntress knows how to sneak up and attack unnoticed. You can determine her temperament by how she behaves with realistic soft toys. Often the cat clamps the “victim” in its teeth and desperately drums on it with its hind paws. Such murkas feel best in a country house. City dwellers, as an option, can take them to their dacha in the summer. When free, the hunter finds herself in her element: exploring the territory and tracking down her prey.
- A female cat gets a positive experience from interacting with her relatives. She does not shy away from other cats and does not fight with them for territory and resources. Since infancy, she lives, communicates and plays with her fellow tribesmen. A female cat can easily be identified by the way it interacts with other cats: they pet, nuzz, play, and lick each other. Such pets prefer the company of cats, but at the same time they are extremely picky about friendship.
- The quarrelsome cat is not endowed with natural tolerance towards others and is constantly in a state of combat readiness. It is difficult to build relationships with such pets. This requires a lot of patience on the part of the owner. A feisty cat is independent, needs space to play, does not like to cuddle, and has a negative attitude towards the tenderness of a calf. This is the same cat that “walks on its own.”
- An inquisitive cat loves to poke her nose into the affairs of the household. Natural curiosity makes her sniff everything that attracts attention. This behavior is hereditary and also indicates childhood habits. Such pets will be comfortable in a large apartment or private house, especially if its owners are famous for their hospitality and often receive guests. The inquisitive cat loves to sniff and explore people and the contents of their bags.
Burmese
The breed got its name from a state in Southeast Asia that was previously known as Burma. Now this place is called Myanmar. The sacred Burmese cat has piercing blue eyes, which, complete with a fluffy tail, makes her one of the brightest and most amazingly beautiful representatives of the cat world.
Burmese are ideal for living in a regular city apartment due to their affectionate and reserved nature. In addition, the pet adapts well to any living conditions.
Unlike many other cats, Burmese do not seek to solely have the attention of their owner, therefore they have nothing against other pets if they do not violate the personal space of the tailed aristocrat. However, they do not tolerate long absences from their owner and may become offended if the owner does not devote his personal time to them or prefers the company of other pets living in the house.
The Burmese get along well with children; they are not afraid of guests and do not hide from them. Graceful Asian cats are highly intelligent and simply love to “talk.” Sometimes it seems that the cat understands a person at a glance. The effect is enhanced by the fact that the cat at the moment of communication carefully looks at the owner and seems to understand what is being said. That is why Buddhist monks dubbed Burma the “eye of heaven.”
Although the breed is restrained and phlegmatic in nature, it does not demonstrate a tendency towards excessive passivity. At the same time, she cannot be called mobile, much less violent. Calmness, poise, combined with some playfulness, as well as intelligence, affection and friendliness - these are the main qualities of the Burmese cat.
What to look for when choosing
Before you get a dog, you need to evaluate the conditions in which it will be kept. Don't forget that an improperly kept pet is much more distressing.
Which dogs are best to keep in an apartment, and what feature is considered the most important?
Size
There is an opinion that with small pets and medium-sized dog breeds there is less hassle, but the size of the animal does not have an initial meaning. Decorative animals sometimes require tireless care, while a large pet does not cause problems. True, having a dog like a Great Dane or Shepherd in a small apartment would be irresponsible - the dog should have its own place where it and the household members will not disturb each other.
Character
Calm dogs are preferable for apartments, as they do not cause trouble for neighbors. The character of an animal largely depends on its upbringing, but some breeds require a lot of space to play. In addition, for living in the city, it is better to choose pets that can easily tolerate loneliness, otherwise they will bother the neighbors with constant barking and howling.
When answering the question of what kind of dog to have in an apartment, you should take into account the owner’s lifestyle. Elderly, conservative people are better off choosing pets who will happily spend time on the couch, while active people need a companion for fun walks.
Wool
Most pet owners have to get used to a certain amount of fur in their home. The only exception is “naked” pets. Short-haired dogs lose hair in the same way as long-haired dogs, and the hair can be prickly and get stuck in clothes, causing a lot of discomfort.
The “woolen” selection criterion is important when there are allergy sufferers among the household. The situation will be saved by hypoallergenic dogs for apartments - animals from this category do not have a thick undercoat, so they are less likely to cause unwanted reactions. With proper care of the animal, intense hair loss will disappear in the off-season, and with regular combing, the discomfort is minimal.
Features of the body
If we talk about which dogs are suitable for an apartment, it is worth remembering that many animals have anatomical features that should be taken into account before getting a dog in an apartment. Some dogs have increased salivation, so drool will be everywhere, which will cause special difficulties in a small apartment. Others have a special structure of the nasopharynx, so they often snore in their sleep - this can cause serious inconvenience for those who are used to sleeping in complete silence.
For apartment owners who work a lot and are rarely at home, unpretentious dogs are suitable - they only need to be bathed, fed and walked from time to time. Many small animals are difficult to place in this category. Pets with long hair need to be brushed often and make sure that hair does not get into the eyes, and “naked” pets require a lot of clothing, and before each walk the dog will have to be dressed in overalls or a coat.
Price
If the owner of the animal is going to take part in exhibitions, he will have to buy an expensive purebred puppy, and do not forget that funds will also be needed to maintain such a pet. In other cases, you can find inexpensive breeds, and sometimes get a puppy for a nominal price.
Ragamuffin
This furry beauty can be carried in your arms all day long. Its affectionate and discreet disposition makes the pet an ideal friend for small family members and pets. Cats of this breed are so calm and intelligent that they can be safely walked on a leash.
Ragamuffins love attention from their owners, so it is not recommended to leave them alone for a long time.
Selkirk Rex
A very unusual breed that stands out for its curly hair, reminiscent of sheep's wool. In addition, she is distinguished by her phlegmatic temperament, friendliness and high intelligence. Playfulness is also not alien to them, but it manifests itself more clearly than in their ancestors - Persian cats.
Pets are very patient and can easily adapt to new living conditions. Thanks to targeted selection, this breed was freed from the fear inherent in Persians.
Selkirk Rex dogs demonstrate true devotion to their owners and at the same time are not jealous of children and pets.
Snub-nosed homebodies boast amazing intelligence and powers of observation. For example, they can easily remember and copy the actions of the owners: the ability to jump on the handle to open the door is a clear confirmation of this.
Representatives of this breed love to sit on laps for hours and make cute purring sounds when petted.
Potential difficulties of living with a cat
1. Cats go to the toilet. Yes, and “in a big way” too
Of course, cats are much more clean than dogs; they cannot go to the toilet due to carelessness or from excess emotions, but cats also happen to shit in the wrong place. There may be many reasons for this, but in this case the point is different - the apartment area is small, and the smell of cat excrement is quite pungent
This can cause problems with neighbors or homeowners. Therefore, it is preferable to choose animals that are already tray-trained.
Cat litter and kitten
If you think that cats are easy to train and their instincts themselves will push them in the right direction, you are mistaken. Our editor is the proud owner of two large mongrel cats, one of whom completely refuses to remember that a trash can is the wrong place for his litter box. And even if it is possible to convince him of this today, it is not a fact that tomorrow the situation with the surprise found in the trash bin will not repeat itself.
2. Cats shed. And this is also a problem. Are you ready for your entire apartment to be strewn with cat hair? It will get everywhere: on clothes, in food, on all surfaces. In a small space, especially during periods of seasonal molting, cat hair turns into a real punishment.
Grooming a long-haired white cat
Moreover, some cats periodically develop dandruff, to which you or your family members may be allergic. So, when choosing an animal, you need to remember about the upcoming “war” with its fur, and if this is a problem for you, it is better to choose smooth-haired breeds or sphinxes in general. On the other hand, with proper care, problems with the coat will practically not arise.
In any case, it is worth paying attention to this issue
3. Cat's temperament or character. In some cases, it can also present very unpleasant surprises. If you live in a relatively small apartment, you should choose a furry friend of a breed that has the following characteristics:
- lack of a pronounced instinct for one’s own territory;
- easy perception of loneliness;
- sociability;
- friendliness towards strangers;
- not too high activity.
The last thing is worth explaining - cats with high activity require a lot of space for their games. They physically need to spend their energy somewhere, so they rush around the apartment like mad, turning over various objects, damaging furniture, knocking you off your feet. Such animals need to be in the fresh air, so keeping them in an apartment will be problematic for you.
Don Sphynx
The appearance of this amazing creature is truly extraterrestrial, and behind it hides a touching and sensitive nature, thirsty for the love and affection of its owner.
The character of these extraordinary creatures is very contradictory: on the one hand, the Don Sphynxes are soft and not jealous, but on the other hand, they are touchy. However, in any case, one cannot blame them for the lack of mental balance.
Representatives of the breed love affection and strive to jump into your arms at the first opportunity. At the same time, if the pet understands that he is not needed, he will not impose himself.
“Donetsk residents” are moderately playful, and after a short run around they love to lie under a warm blanket or on the radiator.
Don Sphynxes avoid conflicts, therefore they behave peacefully with other domestic animals, including hamsters, rats, parrots and other small animals.
The best cats by coat type
Shedding is a physiological process that is periodically observed in cats. Fluffy individuals have their own difficulties in caring for. Those who don’t like clutter and hair all over their apartment should take a closer look at easy-to-care breeds.
Shorthair
Devon Rex have short, curly hair. These animals rarely shed, so you won't find hair strewn around the house. Cats have good health and strong immunity. They will not cause any trouble in caring for them.
Devon Rex
Burmese cats have smooth, close-lying hair. Therefore, they rarely shed and do not require special care. These cats are not susceptible to contamination and remain clean for a long time. Burmese are rarely bathed.
Burmese cat
The Bombay cat does not require much grooming. They have smooth, short fur that rarely falls out.
No wool
Some cats are naturally hairless.
The Kohana is a hairless Hawaiian breed. Their skin is soft and resembles melted wax. Due to a gene mutation, they lack hair follicles. They will never have fur.
Kohana
Minskin combines the genes of a Devon Rex and a Burmese cat. Their fur feels like cashmere.
Minskin
The Canadian Sphynx has no hair and has many folds on its body.
Canadian Sphynx
British shorthair cat
Friendly and unpretentious, the British adore the company of their owner and at the same time do not show intrusiveness. Due to their phlegmatic and sluggish nature, these cats are better suited for home keeping than anyone else.
The British prefer peace and solitude, are not lazy and are very clean. Also a striking feature of these imperturbable aristocrats is independence and self-reliance.
Exotic cat
This breed was developed by crossing a Persian cat with an American Shorthair. Obviously, such a union should have resulted in the most restrained and calm breed.
Like the Persians, exotics demonstrate miracles of serenity and obedience. Animals become very attached to their owners and are trainable.
Representatives of the breed are not known for their courage. They are most frightened by fast moving objects, loud noises and children's crying. In order for a pet to “control itself”, from childhood it is necessary to teach the kitten to calmly react to stimuli of this kind.
Exotics have difficulty getting used to new conditions. To speed up the process, you can bring something familiar to your pet into an unfamiliar room, which will serve as a temporary shelter. This could be a cat house or carrier. From there, Murka will be able to observe what is happening in complete safety, and after some time she will leave the shelter to explore unknown territory.
How important is your cat's activity to you?
As they say, you can’t run wild in an apartment, but many breeds can be extremely active, running and jumping all over the house. There are breeds that are much calmer, such as the British, Persian, Scots, Burmese, Russian Blues, Sphynxes and Exotics. They are not hasty, they like to frolic, but in moderation. But cats such as Siamese, Bengal, Abyssinian, Kurilian Bobtail are not suitable for living in a small space, as they are hyperactive by nature.
Take care of purchasing accessories for your pet
But even if you bought a kitten from a calm breed, don’t expect it to lie around like a soft toy all day. Every cat needs space to play. In addition, each animal has its own character, which the owner may not like; some of the animal’s habits will have to be tolerated, and some will have to be eradicated through educational measures. To prevent an unpleasant odor from appearing in the apartment, and to ensure that your favorite furniture remains intact, you need to take care of purchasing accessories for your pet.
First of all, you need a cat litter box with litter, a scratching post and a nail clipper. The next most important event is the equipment of the place where the animal will eat. Buy a feeder for food, and a separate bowl for water.
Remember! If your kitten eats dry food, then there should be water in the bowl at all times.
The British cat breed is well adapted to apartment life.
If you wish, you can equip a cat's place to relax; here you will need special houses, toys, beds, etc.
If you do not want your pet to bear offspring in the future, then go through the procedure of castration for cats and sterilization for cats. This procedure will help cats and kittens not to suffer in the future without a partner, will preserve their health and is completely safe for animals.
Maine Coon
The impressive size and good nature of these beauties gave rise to the popular name of the Maine Coon breed - “gentle giants”. The dimensions of the cat are the first thing that attracts the attention of others, and only then do people begin to notice the peculiarities of his character.
One of the largest cat breeds gets its name from the English phrase “Maine Coon,” which means Maine raccoon.
“Gentle Giant” embodies Olympic calm, intelligence, beauty, peacefulness. By the way, large dimensions often go along with a phlegmatic temperament not only in cats, but also in many other animals. So such a combination is quite natural and harmonious for the Maine Coon.
On the one hand, the Maine raccoon cat is distinguished by its reserved character, but on the other hand, it is very sociable and is always ready to make new acquaintances.
Siberian cat
Another very large representative of the cat world (its weight can reach 20 kg), which is also distinguished by a peaceful, balanced disposition. Sociability, calmness, kindness are integral features of the Siberian cat, although the seemingly “severe” name of the breed should indicate the opposite.
“Sibiryak” feels great both at home and at the exhibition. Many representatives of this breed have the habit of rolling over on their backs and exposing their bellies to the loving hands of their owner so that they can scratch or stroke the pet. True, the Siberian beauty is so fearless and trusting that she allows herself to be stroked even by strangers. They sleep, sometimes also lounging on their backs with their front paws raised, which looks indecently cute.
“Siberians” have high intelligence and behave independently, and sometimes even willfully. If your pet is not in the mood, it is better not to disturb him. But mostly cats demonstrate obedience and a desire to be the center of attention of their owners.
It is worth noting that Murka simply loves water, which makes it stand out from other cats. You can often find your pet playing in the sink.
The strong reserved character of Siberian cats and their sense of self-esteem does not at all mean a desire to dominate. Representatives of this breed behave friendly both with family members and other pets, but do not pretend to be the leader of the pack.
Manifestations of a cat's mind
There is no single system by which one can measure the IQ of a pet. However, breeders note that some breeds learn faster, communicate more easily, have a good memory, and even try to respond to speech in their own way.
The intelligence of a representative of the cat family can be conditionally assessed by the following criteria:
Like humans, a cat's intelligence is not a pure product of upbringing or a biological given.
Individuals who naturally have faster reactions and the ability to quickly form neural connections in the brain learn better. But they may also be inferior in intelligence to their brothers, whose training and development were carefully handled by attentive and caring owners.
Tonkinese
The breed was developed by crossing Burmese and Siamese cats. The result combined the qualities of both parents, and the best. For example, Tonkinese have a good-natured, phlegmatic temperament, but at the same time they do not have the habit of meowing loudly, like Siamese.
Cats of this breed are incredibly loyal to their owner. In addition, he has high intelligence, trainability and obedience. It won't be difficult to train these cats to walk on a leash.
Mr. Cat says: who is smarter, males or females?
Intelligence has nothing to do with the gender of the pet. Likewise, the myths that short-haired cats are smarter than fluffy ones, and animals with dark colors are more talented than those with light colors, have not been justified.
How quickly and effectively a cat will comprehend the wisdom of life with a person depends on the literacy of educational activities, natural data and the strength of contact and affection between the owner and the animal.
Love, care and systematic training can adapt even the most indifferent cat to life in a family. Connivance and inconsistency on the part of the owners will turn a curious and cheerful animal into an aggressive and stupid stubborn one.
Source
Canadian Sphynx
Owners of such a specific appearance will not appeal to everyone, but soft character traits will be able to win over any potential owner. The Canadian Sphynx is distinguished by its calm, affectionate behavior and ability to get along with every member of the family and even with guests. The cat easily adapts to a new environment and takes root well in a city apartment.
The Canadian Sphynx does not have a special need for human attention, so it feels comfortable even if the owner is away from home for a long time.
The bald comrade is absolutely devoid of aggression, gets along well with other pets, and easily finds a common language with children. “Canadians” react normally not only to strangers, but even to large crowds of people. For example, at exhibitions, sphinxes maintain complete equanimity, which is why they enjoy great success with the public.
An example of true composure is the Canadian Sphynx, who played the role of Mr. Bigglesworth in all the films about Austin Powers.
The most striking example is the Canadian Sphynx named Ted Nugent, who played the role of Mr. Bigglesworth in the series of films about Austin Powers.
Cat breeds with the calmest personalities
We suggest you familiarize yourself with the list of the calmest cats.
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian cat is an inquisitive creature that strives to explore the world around it. Animals remain playful until old age. Despite their wild appearance, Abyssinians are famous for their balanced character, intelligence and intelligence.
They are affectionate towards children and adults, do not let out their claws while playing, and are patient with the pranks of children. Cats love to sit on cabinets, patrolling their territory, and take part in the affairs of the household. Whatever you do, know that you are being watched!
American shorthair cat
The American Shorthair cat prefers to maintain a golden mean in everything. She is sociable, but not intrusive, loves to play, but does not turn the house upside down. Cats are attentive to their owners, but prefer to keep their distance.
They watch what is happening from the sidelines, they come running if they are called, but they do not rush into hugs. The “American” will jump onto your lap if she so desires. But don't expect the furry beauty to give you more than 10 minutes of her precious attention.
In addition, American Shorthairs are not known for their sociability. When approaching the owner, they would rather utter a quiet “meow” than start a loud “conversation” on a free topic. This feature is compensated by intense facial expressions: the cat’s face conveys the entire range of its emotions. By learning to recognize nonverbal cues, you can build a trusting relationship with your pet.
Burmese
The graceful Asian beauty is famous for her extraordinary intelligence. Sometimes it seems that she understands a person perfectly. Burma carefully watches the owner during the conversation as if he understands what is being said. Buddhist monks have long noticed this feature in the Burmese cat and called it the “eye of heaven.”
The Burmese cat is characterized by a golden mean in character, just like the American Shorthair. Burma is not prone to excessive passivity, but it cannot be called too violent either. These animals are calm and balanced, affectionate and friendly, and also moderately playful. Such qualities are more characteristic of males than of females.
Reference. The Burma does not tolerate loneliness and prefers to be in contact with people and other animals. However, if the owner shows more attention to another cat or dog, the Birman will become jealous.
These cats are able to defuse the tense atmosphere in the house: in some amazing way they relieve tension, force household members to switch gears and forget about quarrels.
Don Sphynx
In the body of this amazing creature with an alien appearance hides a vulnerable soul that desires emotional contact with a person. Don Sphynxes are unusually soft and absolutely not jealous. Sphinxes are easily offended, but they cannot be upset.
The Don Sphynx loves “veal tenderness”. Before you even have time to blink your eyes, your lap will be occupied by a cat. At the same time, coots are not too clingy and will not impose themselves if they understand that you do not need them.
Don Sphynxes are moderately lazy. After a little frolic, they go to their favorite place to doze - on the radiator or under a warm blanket.
“Donetsk residents” are peaceful and non-conflict-free, so feel free to get hamsters, rats, parrots, chinchillas and other small animals. Be sure that the sphinx will not touch them, because they are indifferent to him.
Canadian Sphynx
The Canadian Sphynx is another representative of the hairless breeds. This comrade is completely devoid of aggression, loves children of all ages, and gets along well with dogs and cats.
Representatives of the breed quickly get used to large crowds of people, which is why they feel great at exhibitions. Some sphinxes are so calm that they become real movie stars. The most striking example is the Canadian Sphynx named Ted Nugent, who played the role of Mr. Bigglesworth in the Austin Powers film series.
Korat
The Korat is a native breed from Thailand. It was named after the province of Korat. The Thais consider this cat sacred and prohibit selling or buying it. In this country, korats can only be received as a gift.
Representatives of this breed are affectionate, loving and friendly. They need close emotional contact with their owner and are sad when separated from him. The Korat is an intelligent and observant cat, moderately active and sociable. Animals love to sit on your lap and cuddle. When “talking,” the Korat chooses the correct intonation, trying to convey the meaning to the owner.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a companion cat. She is friendly, moderately playful and calm. Representatives of the breed do not tolerate familiarity; they do not sit on their owner’s lap; they prefer to lie down next to them.
Maine Coons single out one leader for themselves and follow on his heels. An interesting feature of the breed is its thin voice, which does not fit with its menacing appearance. Cats rarely meow, but instead make funny sounds similar to purring.
These giants are sometimes clumsy, they often skid when turning, so be prepared for the fact that during the game the cat's carcass may catch a vase or flower pot. The only thing that prevents the Mui Kun from tearing the house to pieces is its calm character and passion for daytime sleep. Many cats have a thirst for water, so we recommend locking the bathroom door to keep it relatively tidy.
Manx
Manx is a peaceful and loving creature that gets along well with small children. At the same time, Manx are brave and can stand up for themselves if necessary.
Representatives of the breed are intelligent, calm, obedient and unpretentious. Changes in environment are tolerated without stress. Manx cats are devoted to their owners, feel like full members of the family, love attention, and are offended if they do not receive it.
Cats love to look at water, whether it's rain or running from a faucet. Some unique people know how to flush the toilet and then admire the flow of water.
Norwegian forest
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a child of Scandinavia. She is balanced, restrained in emotions, non-conflict, but does not tolerate violation of personal space. In other words, she has a true Nordic character, does not like to impose herself, is friendly to people,
“Norwegian women” are quite independent, prone to “vagrancy”. They may disappear for a few hours and then return. However, they do not tolerate loneliness. Be prepared to be reprimanded for a long absence, because the soul of this beautiful creature sometimes requires constant attention from a person. Cats react especially sharply to the absence of the head of the family, for which role they themselves appoint the one with whom they sympathize most.
Reference. Norwegian forest cats are friendly and not aggressive. If one of the family members tries to impose their communication by force, the furry beauty prefers to retreat and wait in a secluded place.
Representatives of this breed are smart and quick-witted, but attempts to teach them tricks ultimately end in failure. Yes, cats understand what is wanted from them, but they do not want to obey other people's whims.
Persian
Persians are surprisingly calm, friendly and balanced cats. They are afraid to upset a person, they become attached to their owners and seem to be created to give warmth and affection. Even if you accidentally offended a Persian, he will not grieve and will gladly accept your apology.
Persian cats are inactive. Sometimes it seems that they are too lazy to meow once again. To attract attention, they sit next to you and look intently into your eyes. Cats prefer to snore peacefully in a bed than to rush around the apartment at breakneck speed. But if you offer to play, the Persian will never refuse.
Representatives of this breed are homebodies; they do not need walks in the fresh air; a window sill is enough for them to observe the world around them.
Pixiebob
Pixiebob is a miniature lynx. Behind the mask of a descendant of a forest cat is a tremulous character. Cats quickly become close to all family members. These animals are patient, delicate and calm. They are always ready to frolic, but will not get in the way.
Pixiebobs do not play favorites the way Maine Coons and Norwegian Forests do. These animals give their love and tenderness to adults and children. They are also surprisingly friendly to outsiders.
Pixiebobs are not aggressive, but can fend for themselves if necessary. Cats often amuse their household with their antics and love to play catch.
Russian blue
Russian Blue is the friendliest cat breed. She is classified as a problem-free pet. They are characterized by innate intelligence and exceptional sensitivity, independence and strength of character. Russian blue cats are cute and spontaneous creatures, but only for household members. They don’t let strangers get close, preferring to study guests from a distance.
Their favorite place in the house is an MDF house or a closet, which they are ready to conquer repeatedly, like Mount Everest. The Russian Blue does not reject the owner’s attempts to cuddle her, but you need to know when to stop.
Ragdoll
The name of the breed translates as “rag doll”. The Ragdoll is an incredibly calm creature, moderately lazy and phlegmatic. The state of her soul can be described in one word - “peace.”
A cat feels best next to its owner—the center of the universe. Ragdolls follow a person with their tail and take part in all his affairs. Representatives of the breed love to “whisper” in their quiet and gentle voice.
Ragdolls are peaceful, allow themselves to be cuddled and endlessly carried in their arms. Allow children to treat themselves like a stuffed toy. In such cases, the cat relaxes, literally goes limp in your hands.
Ragdolls do not have conflicts; if they sense a brewing storm in the family, they hide in a secluded place. These cats are vulnerable and have a delicate mental organization. You can’t shout at them, they take everything to heart, have a hard time dealing with aggression and will lose their appetite.
Animals cannot stand loneliness, they become sad if the owner is absent for a long time and can even die. If you are planning to get a Ragdoll, be prepared to take him with you on your travels. Cats tolerate changing conditions calmly, the main thing is that their beloved owner is nearby.
Selkirk rex
The Selkirk Rex has a wonderful character, he is not capricious, calm and devoted to his owners. Cats are not jealous of children and other pets. They love to play outdoor games. Guests are treated friendly.
Selkirk Rex dogs love to sit on laps. They can do this for hours if they are allowed to. At the same time, the cat starts its internal motor and purrs cutely when stroked. Representatives of the breed are observant, they easily remember the actions of their owners, and then repeat them. For example, they jump on the handle to open the door.
Siberian
Siberian cats are playful and active, love the attention of their owners, and enjoy frolicking with children. At the same time, they are endowed with a sense of self-esteem, prefer to remain silent, and sometimes behave willfully. If your pet is not in the mood, it is better not to touch it.
The Siberian cat is a very tactful person; she will not impose herself if she understands that the owner is busy or not predisposed to games. “Siberians” love to lie on their backs in amusing poses, which amuses their household. Cats love to sleep lounging on their backs with their front legs raised.
Despite their strong character, Siberians are not prone to dominance. They are friendly with all family members and other pets.
Manx
Incredibly friendly, obedient, calm and affectionate creatures on the one hand, and brave, capable of standing up for themselves if necessary, on the other.
Manxes are known for their canine loyalty. Cats of this breed are greedy for their master's attention and, if they feel a lack of it, they begin to be seriously offended.
Murkas quickly get used to new conditions, and in the family they feel confident as full members of the family.
An interesting feature of Manx cats is their irresistible craving for water: cats are literally glued with their eyes to the rain or streams running from the tap. There are people who know how to flush the toilet and then watch the water flow in fascination.
Cats with a calm temperament and easy-going disposition are deservedly the favorites among pets. Among the most popular breeds with a phlegmatic character, we can distinguish both less active ones (Don Sphynx, Persian, Ragdoll), who prefer to spend time lying on the bed, and slightly more active ones (Pixie Bobs, Maine Coons, Burmese), who are not averse to having fun with people and pets.
Criterias of choice
It is difficult to understand all the varieties of “fluffy breeds” that exist today, especially if a person has not encountered these animals before. Today, about 90 varieties of these pets are recognized by different felinological clubs.
When choosing, it is recommended to pay attention to how difficult it will be to care for your pet. If you do not want to spend your free time combing hair or thinking about the menu, then it is best to give preference to undemanding cats, such as Siamese, Bombay, Egyptian Mau, Abyssinian, Oriental or Cornish Rex
As practice shows, all long-haired animals require careful care, as they often shed. But, for example, hairless pets often freeze, so they require close attention and special scrupulous care.
If you are a passionate cat lover and want to devote a lot of time to caring for your pet, then you can take a closer look at the following breeds:
- Persian;
- Don Sphinx;
- Canadian Sphynx;
- Maine Coon;
- ragdoll;
- Scottish Fold.
Scottish lop-eared
When choosing a type of pet, you must take into account your lifestyle. An important aspect is the situation in the house and the life principles of the owner.
If a person is constantly at work and is rarely at home, then those that do not require a lot of communication and care are suitable. Such animals must necessarily have a self-sufficient character. This is the trait that distinguishes the following breeds:
- British;
- Egyptian Mau;
- Maine Coon;
- Russian blue;
- munchkin.
Munchkin
Despite the fact that representatives of this species will never bother their owner, they will always welcome him home from work joyfully.
If there are small children in the house, then you should choose from kind and flexible cats. Such animals must be patient and not show aggression even if the baby is naughty. The American Curl, Neva Masquerade, Kurilian Bobtail, Manx, Norwegian Forest, and Turkish Bath are ideal for children.
For people living alone, pets with an affectionate character are ideal. They will definitely make up for the lack of communication and will gladly brighten up the evening with their purring. Such animals include:
- Bengali;
- laperm;
- Thai;
- Burmese;
- Japanese Bobtail;
- Devon Rex.
Devon Rex
The listed varieties of cats are distinguished by their affection for their owner and love attention. They will definitely bring exclusively positive emotions and create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort in the house.
For people who live in a private house, a hunter cat would be an ideal option. This is the kind of pet that will help exterminate rodents. In this case, it is best to give preference to breeds such as American Shorthair, Siberian, Russian Blue, Kuril Bobtail or Turkish Van. Born hunters and rat catchers will always stand guard over your home.
If you already have pets in the house, then in order to avoid conflicts, you should choose from friendly breeds such as the Norwegian Forest, Peterbald, Thai, Japanese or American Bobtail.
When for a person a cat is not only a pet, but also a way of self-expression, it is best to have unusual breeds. In this case, the choice depends entirely on the individual preferences and capabilities of the person. If you want others to admire them when they see a cat, then take a closer look at the following breeds:
- munchkin;
- American Curl;
- laperm;
- Devon Rex;
- Cornish Rex;
- peterbald.
Peterbald
Representatives of these varieties are distinguished by their unusual appearance and at the same time absolutely wonderful character. The main disadvantage of such animals is their high cost.
Recently, cats that look like wild cats have become very popular. They are mainly preferred by those who want to bring exoticism into their everyday life. However, before deciding on such a pet, you should think carefully and weigh everything carefully.
If you still want to get yourself just such a pet, then pay attention to the Bengal, Bombay, as well as Ocicat or Savannah breeds. With such animals you will definitely feel like you are in the jungle, since not only their appearance, but also their character contributes to this
When choosing a breed, you need to decide in advance whether you need a pet to participate in exhibitions, for breeding, or just for joy and comfort in your home
In the first cases, special attention should be paid to the kitten’s pedigree
