Best Affectionate Cat Breeds

Cats are easily mistaken for grumpy, distant, and independent animals who don’t want to be bothered. Hence, if you are the kind of person who wants a cat that will reciprocate the love that you give to them, then you are most likely looking for the best affectionate cat breeds out there.

Are you searching for an affectionate feral baby that will reciprocate the love you give them?

This article is just for you. Read on and find out which are the best affectionate cat breeds!

What You Should Know

All cats have the potential to be affectionate.

They are pets who seek love and are willing to give it back as much as any other.

The misconception about certain cats being more affectionate than others stems from what people define as affection. For example, certain cats show appreciation through touch, which is typical behavior that indicates affection. However, other cats show their love and affection differently, such as bringing you food or seeking your attention to play together.

While this article shortlists the best affectionate cat breeds, it focuses explicitly on cat breeds most likely to show affection through touch.

This does not mean that other cat breeds are not affectionate but that they show love through other means beyond touch.

Best Affectionate Cat Breeds for the Touch-Starved

Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds. This gentle giant is a great option for first-time pet parents looking for a cat that can be sociable and dependent. Maine Coon cats enjoy the outdoors and any opportunities they get to climb and hunt. Notably, they tend to produce delightful chirping sounds.

Birman

The Birman cat is a patient cat that causes very little trouble. They have a soft and silky coat, strikingly blue eyes and white-glove paws. Unlike their close relative breed (the Siamese), Birman cats are extremely quiet. Notably, this breed does not do well being alone for long periods of time, and they are prone to separation anxiety. They appreciate frequent hugs and snuggles and are thus, ideal candidates for pet parents who seek lots of affection.

Burmese

Originating from Thailand, Burmese cats are strong, athletic and heavily built with short but dense coats. Their behavior is similar to puppies due to their clingy and playful nature. Like the Maine Coon and the Ragdoll, they are one of the types of cats that act like dogs. This is also a result of being a people-oriented breed with lots of energy that lasts in older years too.

Ragdoll

Native to the United States, the Ragdoll is an easy-going, laid-back breed. These cats are famous for their silly and humorous behavior (i.e. going limp when you pick them up) and occasionally demanding, attention-seeking personalities. They are ideal lap cats who do better indoors.

Scottish Fold

Scottish Folds are best described as unusually loving companions. Known for their distinctively folded ears, these cats may have a short-coated or long-coated appearance. They are extremely social and friendly who, like most affectionate cat breeds, do not like being alone. Moreover, they have a habit of sleeping in weird positions. They are not hypoallergic cats and, thus, this breed is not ideal for people with allergies.

Honorable Mentions

• Ragamuffin — variant of the Ragdoll
• Siamese — also easy to get along with other cats
• Sphynx — also ideal for people with allergies

Now you’re up to date on best affectionate cat breeds! Still got questions? Then book a video consultation with one of our qualified veterinarians to get advice on your pet questions within minutes.