People who have never bonded with a cat might not understand the appeal of a feline companion. Cats require patience, empathy, and a willingness to accept the relationship on the cat’s terms. For many cat parents, this is a small price to pay in exchange for feline friendship. Our list of the most affectionate cat breeds includes some cuddly cats that seem to crave human companionship.
For non-cat people, it might seem stressful to have a tiny predator living in your home. Although cats have a reputation for being mischievous, their often charismatic personalities make many people love cats. Despite all the drama they cause, 70 percent of cat owners say there’s “nothing” they would change about their cat. It seems all the frustration caused can be cured when cats turn cute, which, according to those polled, is whenever they’re playing (50%), eating (40%), purring (37%), or sleeping (37%). More than three in five (63%) say nothing is more exciting to them than mealtime for their cat. At feeding time, cats are most likely to let their humans know they’re ready when they meow (49%), paw (37%), or headbutt (34%).
When cats express their affection for people, it can be a very enriching experience. Just like with people, a friendly smile can go a long way to winning over a cat. Researchers in the United Kingdom say they’ve “purr-fected” the art of communicating with our four-legged friends. The key however isn’t smiling with your mouth, it’s smiling with your eyes. When humans narrow their eyes it creates something known as the “slow blink” — or cat smile. This action makes people much more attractive to felines and they often return this affection to anyone displaying it.
These fluffy love muffins might surprise pet parents with how much snuggling and love they want as compared to some of their cooler cousins. We have compiled a list of the most affectionate cat breeds to welcome into your home. Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
The List: Most Affectionate Cat Breeds, According to Experts
1. Ragdoll
The cutie pie Ragdoll breed is heavily cited by our sources as one of the most devoted breeds. They love their families and enjoy displays of affectionate cuddling. The Spruce Pets raves, “Bred to be affectionate companions, ragdoll cats are ideal if you’re looking for a lovable and relatively low-maintenance animal. Ragdolls are known to follow their humans from room to room, greet them after a long day out of the house, and even play games like fetch. Ragdoll cats are friendly around children and other pets, making them great family pets.”
Daily Paws praises, “True to their name, the ragdoll is known for relaxing in your arms, going limp much like a ragdoll when picked up. It’s no wonder these blue-eyed beauties boast the top spot on the Cat Fanciers’ Association Most Popular Breeds list for both 2019 and 2020. Family-friendly and as cool, calm, and collected as they get, ragdoll cats are a ready addition to loving households everywhere.”
“These cats are considered ‘puppy cats’ because they have dog-like traits, including wanting to play and cuddle with their owner. They are known for their silky fur and laid-back personality. In fact, Ragdolls are so easy-going and loving that they will allow a child to carry them around like a doll, going limp when they are picked up. While some cat breeds like to explore the house and get into mischief, Ragdolls like to stay close to their family at all times,” exclaims Webbox.
2. Abyssinian
Abyssinian cats are sleek, and often sport golden tawny coats. This ancient breed is said to be associated with Bast, an ancient Egyptian Goddess. “Thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds in existence, Abyssinians are smart, curious, and athletic. But best of all, they’re highly people-oriented and social. ‘Aby’s’ aren’t necessarily lap cats, but they love to play and hang out with their humans,” describes The Dog People.
Pure Wow says, “Not only are these cats old souls (their images have been spotted in ancient Egyptian artwork), but they can live into their 20s! They are social and love interacting with and playing with people. We know we said cats aren’t dogs, but these cats are dog-like in that they enjoy more active playtime than some feline breeds. Best suited for more active families, the Abyssinian is loyal and loving.”
Purina elaborates, “The Abyssinian is the cat friend you wish you also had in human form. Their penchant for living every minute to the fullest means you’ve got to get your energy levels up to match their always-on personality, but what a joy it is to have such an intelligent and friendly cat breed by your side, literally.”
3. Scottish Fold
Scottish Fold cats have delightfully round faces and adorable floppy ears. These lovable cats are said to dislike solitude, preferring to stay with their humans. Pet Helpful comments, “They are extremely loving and tend to sleep on their backs. They were originally called lops or lop-eared, similar to the lop-eared rabbit breed. The breed was established in 1966 and yes, they originated in Scotland.”
“These medium-sized cats have a stocky build. Scottish Folds have the endearing habit of relaxing in strange positions, like laying flat on their back or stretched out on their stomachs. They’re a relatively active breed and love playing in between cuddles with their owners. They don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods, so they need a home with plenty of company,” adds Pet Keen.
“Interestingly, they are notorious for sleeping in very peculiar positions. Scottish Folds are very social and friendly cats who don’t do well being left alone. Folds are moderately active and yet very intelligent and agile. They will gladly engage in games with you and follow you around from room to room,” details basepaws.
4. Birman
Birman cats tend to have darker coat coloring on their faces that accentuates their striking blue eyes. These cats enjoy being close to their humans. “Birmans are one of the most affectionate cat breeds around. In fact, they don’t limit their love to humans. Birman cats do well with other pets in the home and have been known to cuddle up with dogs,” states The Dog People.
Reader’s Digest explains, “One look and you’re done. Those wistful blue eyes, that cute button nose and the gorgeous long coat—how could you not want to cuddle? Luckily, the Birman is one of the most affectionate cat breeds and will beckon you to the sofa for snuggle time.”
Pet Helpful offers, “The Birman cat… is a domestic long-haired cat that is identified by its beautiful coat, blue eyes, and color-pointed appearance. Not only are Birmans wonderful to look at due to their beautiful traits, but they also make excellent companions. They love to be lap cats and are fairly sociable—they tend to closely bond with their human companion.”
5. Sphinx
Some people might find these nearly hairless cats to be off-putting in appearance, but Sphinx lovers will attest that these cats are affectionate and caring. Purina claims, “With looks like no other, the Sphynx doesn’t mind the spotlight at all. They’ll have all the attention they can get and reward you with happy purrs and cuddles in return. They are talkative and playful and if that’s not the definition of a best friend we don’t know what is.”
“Sphynx cats are known as extremely affectionate cats who love entertaining their families, and they treasure meeting new humans. These cats won’t shy away or hesitate to demand your attention. Their sweet nature is accompanied by a high level of energy. They will always find a new way to entertain you,” relates basepaws.
“Sphynxes are bright, extroverted cats that love humans both for interaction and their warmth. This neat synergistic relationship gives these cats something they need while their humans reap the cuddly benefits. Some people say that owning a sphynx is like owning a living, breathing hot water bottle. They’ll cuddle with you beneath the covers at night and perch on your lap during the day,” reviews The Spruce Pets.
You might also be interested in:
- Best Cat Breeds For Seniors
- Best Long-Haired Cat Breeds
- Best Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds
- Most Laid-Back Cats
Sources:
- The Spruce Pets
- Daily Paws
- Webbox
- The Dog People
- Pure Wow
- Purina
- Pet Helpful
- Pet Keen
- basepaws
- Reader’s Digest
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.
