If you’re ready to bring a new feline friend into your home, you may be wondering where to start. Whether you’re looking for an easygoing breed or a party animal, we’re here to help find the ideal four-legged friend for you.
In this article, we’ll cover how to make the best choice for both you and your future cat. Plus, we’ll highlight 8 popular cat breeds.
Choosing the right cat breed for your lifestyle
Choosing the right cat is a challenging, but rewarding, task for a cat owner. The right breed for your unique lifestyle can bring both you and your cat a fulfilling life. Consider these important questions before finding your perfect match.
How much time will you spend with your cat?
If you are out of the house often, you may want to consider an independent cat. Young kittens need more attention and time for training and obedience. Older cats from a shelter may already be house-trained and independent.
The time you have to dedicate to your new pet may also determine if you want to get a kitty or adopt an older cat from a local shelter.
How social are you?
If you have guests over often or have other pets in your home, you may want a more social type. Some cats are extremely social, while other breeds prefer to be alone.
A Siamese cat may be a good fit for humans living in busy homes with other family members. Persians and British shorthairs are more independent breeds and may be a better fit if you live in a quiet home.
How often can you care for your cat’s grooming needs?
Different cat breeds have different grooming needs. Plus, they may be a great fit for cat owners with allergies. There are hairless, short-haired, medium-haired, and long-haired breeds.
Hairless kitties don’t shed or need brushing. But, they do need special skin care. Long-haired kitties need frequent brushing and regular grooming to prevent matting.
Cat breed selector
Like humans, every pet is unique. Each type of cat varies in characteristics, including:
- Temperament
- Sociability
- Training
- Grooming needs
Breeding is different for every cat. When choosing a feline friend, keep in mind that cats are either purebred pedigree cats or domestic (hybrid breeds).
Pure-bred, pedigree cats are bred to meet a specific type of cat. Plus, purebred cat breeds only mate with other pure breeds. This ensures that you know the history and pedigree of your kitty.
Domestic cats are typically mixed breeds and are bred over many generations. These breeds typically have reduced chances of genetic problems than pure breeds. And, they come in a variety of looks, sizes, and colors.
If you adopt a domestic cat from a local shelter, it’s possible that your pet may have unknown lineage. This means that the shelter is not sure of their history or possible health problems.
8 popular cat breeds
Now that you’ve considered your own unique needs and how a new cat would fit with your lifestyle, choosing a specific type of cat is the next step.
Here are 8 popular cat breeds. Plus, important things to know about each type to help you choose the ideal four-legged friend for you. Or if you're ready to get started, check out our breed selector quiz.
1. Persian
Persians are calm, loving, and low-maintenance pets. Known for their round heads and fluffy hair, Persians are a great choice for pet parents looking for a laidback kitty.
2. American shorthair
American shorthairs are gentle with kids, making them a great pet for a family. Medium-sized with a muscular build, American shorthairs are popular for their protection against rats and other pests.
3. Ragdoll
Known as “puppy cats,” Ragdolls have a dog-like temperament. Ragdolls are friendly and loving with their owners. Plus, they are easy to train and love to learn cat tricks.
4. British shorthair
British shorthairs are medium-sized, short-haired cats. Known for being peaceful and loyal, they spend most of their time lounging independently.
5. Exotic shorthair
Exotic shorthairs are like Persian cats in personality. But, exotics have thick, dense coats. They do not need daily grooming and are playful, loyal cats.
6. Maine coon
Maine coons are the largest domestic cats and are extremely affectionate and friendly. Maine coons are highly intelligent and easy to train, making them a great option if you can't spend time training your new pet.
7. Scottish fold
Scottish folds are a low-maintenance cat breed and have round eyes and folded ears. They are playful and outgoing, making them a great companion for social humans with other pets.
8. Siamese
Siamese cats are very social. They have more energy than most cats, so pet parents should keep them entertained with playtime and exercise to keep them out of trouble.
Choosing a cat can bring both you and your furry friend a happy and fulfilling life. Be confident choosing the right furry friend for your lifestyle.
Take our breed selector quiz!
