Deciding the right time to adopt is an impactful, life-changing decision that deserves plenty of consideration. For those considering bringing a kitty into their home for the first time, it is important to be sure you can handle the care and compassion that comes with pet ownership. Our list of the top five best cats for first-time owners could lead you in the right direction when choosing a new furry friend.
First-time cat parents should also consider the time it takes to care for a feline friend. It’s a classic trope for the concerned parent to tell their excited child that getting a pet will be “a lot of work.” It turns out Mom and Dad may have been right after all. A new survey finds the average pet owner spends 832 hours each year cleaning up after their pets. The survey of 2,000 pet owners also finds three in four say they clean their homes constantly ever since getting a furry friend.
It can also be very expensive. A new study shows the average pet owner spends about $300 every month on their pets. That includes vet visits, food, toys, and more. So, not only do you have to be equipped to deal with any mess from your new kitty, but also make sure you have the budget to afford one.
If you are just beginning to enter the world of cat ownership, we are here to help! Our trusted sources provided excellent data regarding the best cats for first-time owners. These delightful breeds are typically patient, loving, and willing to bond with their humans. Did we miss your favorite kitty for first timers? Let us know your favorite cat breeds in the comments below!
The List: Best Cats for First-Time Owners, Per Feline Experts
1. Ragdoll
Running away with the first-place spot is the big and loveable Ragdoll. These adorable cats have only been recognized since 2000, and they display a wonderful combination of desirable companion traits. Pets Radar raves, “The Ragdoll is bred to be affectionate, easy-going, and low maintenance. They even get their name because of how they tend to go all limp and floppy when picked up – yes, they’re that chill.”
Hepper Blog praises, “While the Ragdoll is a large cat breed, they are known to be the perfect mixture of calm, relaxed, and cuddly. They are one of the best cats for families due to their gentle and docile nature while playing. Ragdolls are also great cats for a busy lifestyle… They’re friendly and gentle, but you’ll have to brush them to maintain that beautiful coat.”
Pet Keen exclaims, “The Ragdoll is a large and robust cat breed, but they are known to be the best mix of calm and relaxed. They are known to be one of the best cats for families, and they are very sociable and sweet, too. They have big blue eyes and a thick and silky medium-length coat. Let us bust a Ragdoll myth – this kitty is NOT hypoallergenic.”
2. Siamese
Running opposite the modern Ragdoll is the ancient Siamese. These royal Thai cats are purported to have migrated to North America in the 19th century. Pop Sugar crowns the Siamese as the best cat for first timers. Why? “The Siamese is one of the best cat breeds and also known for its sleek body, wedge head, colored points, muscular grace, long legs, and slender tail… also recognizable with their short and silky coat that comes in a variety of colors and deep-blue, almond-shaped, and slant-positioning eyes.”
“This vocal kitty is friendly, affectionate and enjoys being in the company of her people. Siamese cats have short hair which means low-maintenance grooming. She is intelligent and playful, but can also be demanding of attention,” describes Healthy Paws.
“A huge advantage to owning a Siamese is its lack of a thick coat. There’s typically no need to groom your special guy or gal from day to day. These cats need very little upkeep beyond lots of time with you as their favorite pet parent,” elaborates University Animal Clinic.
3. Devon Rex
These stately kings have a highly distinct look with sharper angles than some of their chubbier cousins. This breed does not need combing or brushing due to how fragile their coats are. Excited Cats comments on this, “These cats have long and lanky bodies with coats of extremely short, curly hair that are so fragile, they should never be combed. These cats come in a variety of colors, including chocolate, platinum, and even blue.”
Always Pets adds, “Devon Rex cats love to be around people, and if they could sit at the table with you at mealtime, they would, for they don’t want to miss a thing. They’re not high maintenance. They’re loyal and super affectionate. They crave attention, so if you need an emotional support pet, they’re ready to give you all the love and support you need.”
Pop Sugar details, “This breed doesn’t just want to be with you; they will insist on it… You will never have an empty lap with a Devon Rex. That’s not the only whimsical feature of this breed — they also have a naturally curly coat, oversized eyes, and large ears.”
4. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair has a long history, having been one of the first five breeds recognized by Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1906. The all-American kitties are well adapted to live just about anywhere in North America. “While American Shorthairs are loving, affectionate cats, they are more independent than breeds like Ragdolls or Scottish Folds, and they are more tolerant of being left alone for a little while. They will happily spend time cuddling with you on the couch, but they also do not mind spending time alone to play or rest,” explains Maine Coon Central.
Iconic Paw offers, “The American Shorthair is a popular choice for families looking to give their children a pet they can grow up with, considering that they are known for having a long lifespan. This cat breed is also best known for its easy-going, adaptable, and friendly nature. Plus, they can get along with other pets around them.”
“You won’t have to babysit your kitty but be sure to give them affection because these beauties can be incredibly affectionate and often form strong bonds with their families. American Shorthairs are easy-going, family-loving cats. They’re great lifelong companions and playmates for families with children,” states Hepper Blog.
5. Maine Coon
America loves the Maine Coon, and they are highly rated by all our sources. This American breed has been recognized since 1976 and they have a reputation for being great pets. Hepper Blog claims, “Maine Coon cats are perfect for people who like dogs but want a cat! Their personalities are as big as they are… They are sweet and affectionate and love simply being in the same room or near their humans. They’re known to follow their owners around the home!”
Pet Keen relates, “Also known as the gentle giant of the feline kingdom, Maine Coons are the largest domesticated cat breed… They are also very friendly and are known for their playful yet intelligent characteristics. If you’re used to having a dog in the family, this would be the best feline alternative of all the cats on this list.”
“Maine Coons are as big in size as they are in personality. These giant cats love families and love being around their people… They’re sweet-tempered and very gentle, but they also love to play and hunt. Their long hair needs regular grooming, so keep that in mind when considering the Maine Coon,” reviews Pets Radar.
You might also be interested in:
- Best Cat Breeds for Seniors
- Best Long-Haired Cat Breeds
- Best Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds
- Most Affectionate Cat Breeds
Sources:
- Pets Radar
- Hepper Blog
- Pet Keen
- Pop Sugar
- Healthy Paws
- University Animal Clinic
- Excited Cats
- Always Pets
- Maine Coon Central
- Iconic Paw
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
Bombay cats are a treasure also. They are very intelligent and loving. Please consider them for your family.
Please just go to the humane society and adopt. And cats are not really three hundred dollars a month.
I love Russian blues, and Norwegian forest, and Burmese cats, too. Currently, we have a Maine coon, Frank. These are all definitely great pets to have. Above all these cats listed by you and me, the one which should be on the #1 spot are the fold ear cats.