Cats are often mistaken for being aloof, indifferent, or sometimes even downright aggressive! However, there are many cat breeds that will reciprocate all the love and affection you give them. Ragdolls, Ragamuffins, and even Siamese cats will all be happy to have their fur parents by their sides. If you’re considering purchasing or adopting a cat and want to ensure they’re a sweet, gentle creature, this list of the most affectionate and lovable cat breeds will be perfect for you!
Ragdoll
Ragdolls are beautiful and majestic, and they’re also intelligent, docile, and calm cats. However, aside from these things, these cats can be considered great pets because they are incredibly affectionate. Catster notes, “Ragdolls are known for showing affection for their human companions.” They form an incredible bond with people who have spent a lot of time with them, and since they are inherently kind and caring, they tend to be more mindful of their companion’s moods and emotions.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are friendly and playful cats that enjoy human company. It’s a gentle giant that’s famous for its quiet chirping sound, and they are more on the clingy side, known for following their owners from room to room. Maine Coon Central adds, “They may also lick or bite you gently or sleep next to you at night. They can also show their affection with their tail; when they are feeling friendly or excited to see you, they usually stick their tails straight up.”
Siamese
One of the most loving cat breeds would be the Siamese cat. They’re famous for being vocal cats, often conversing with their owners through meowing, play, and a show of affection. They might seem aloof and detached, but Siamese cats are sociable and friendly.
Ragamuffin
According to Petplan, a Ragamuffin is one of the most friendly and affectionate cat breeds a fur parent can ever want. They are loving, tolerant cats that enjoy being around their family members. WebMD shares, “They’re also very attentive—some even like to wait at the door to greet their owners when they come home. They’ll adore any attention you give them; they’ll likely start purring as soon as you pet them.”
Scottish Fold
Some cats dislike being touched, but Scottish Folds are completely different. In fact, this cat enjoys showing affection by cuddling with its owners. They’re also known as “Velcro cats” because they constantly want to stick by their owners’ sides.
Persian
Persians are cute and fluffy cats that love to lounge around and relax. However, they also enjoy attention and can be very affectionate—specifically toward people they know and love. Untamed shares, “Persian cats are incredibly affectionate felines, and they are not afraid to show it, especially to people they love and trust.” If they like you, they’ll show it by purring and meowing at you, rubbing their cheeks against you, spending time with you, and licking and grooming you.
Chartreux
A Chartreux is a perfect cat to have if you want to maintain the calmness and peacefulness of your home. This is because the Chartreux cat is very affectionate and easy to live with. Purina explains that Chartreux cats are thoughtful cats that aren’t too loud, demanding, or dramatic.
Abyssinian
An Abyssinian might be your best bet if you want an easy-to-please cat. They are a loving, affectionate cat breed that wants to spend time with their owners. So, you’d only need to be present and show them love by combing their fur and rubbing their bellies to make them happy.
Birman
Birmans are also considered “Velco cats” because they tend to follow their owners around whenever they’re present. They are sweet cats that will show you affection if you show them love, too. The Spruce Pets shares, “Birmans are sweet and affectionate—happy to warm your lap or crawl up onto your chest for a hug. They are generally quiet, vocalizing only when necessary with soft chirruping meows.”
Burmese
Burmese cats are cats that need constant attention. They are incredibly affectionate, but the downside is that they can be a bit too clingy. They’ll become sad if you leave them for long periods.
Bombay
Bombay cats are very social—both to their owners and even to strangers. Some even compare them to dogs, as they are very extroverted, curious, and active. Litter-Robot notes, “The Bombay thrives on affection and attention from their humans. They don’t know what to do if they are left alone to entertain themselves.”
Sphynx
Contrary to their appearance, Sphynx cats are very affectionate and loving. They may seem aloof and indifferent, but they love a good cuddle, too! WebMD shares, “Sphynx cats are an affectionate and loving breed. They enjoy cuddling and warmth and will often cuddle with you under blankets.”
Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthair cats are laid-back and great family pets. They are also very loving and sweet cats. They enjoy cuddling with their owners, lounging around the house, and playing. Trupanion notes, “These kitties and cats may do well with people who enjoy having an affectionate cat to spend time with.”
American Shorthair
American Shorthairs have an independent streak. They play when they want to play and will find a way to entertain themselves. However, though this is the case, the American Shorthair is still an affectionate cat that needs its owner’s attention. Countryside Veterinary Clinic describes them as playful, adaptable, gentle, and loving cats.
Russian Blue
Russian Blues are some of the sweetest cat breeds out there. They are loyal cats that follow their owners everywhere and will even greet you at your front door after a long day without you! Though Russian Blues love every family member, they tend to favor one of their parents.
Himalayan
Aside from being beautiful cats, Himalayans also have a great temperament and personality. ASPCA Pet Insurance notes, “They are smart, affectionate, and devoted.” They are also so loving and sweet that they consider their owners’ laps a little piece of heaven.
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is known to be a cat that’s perfect for families because of its intelligence, energy levels, and temperament. It is also known to form deep bonds with humans and often displays an affectionate and friendly disposition. And, just like how they show their owners they love them, Cornish Rex cats will also seek attention and affection from their fur parents.
Tonkinese
The Tonkinese cat is considered to be very expressive. It is extremely affectionate and would love to play on your lap for hours; these cats also enjoy riding on your shoulders! Aside from that, Tonkinese cats tend to love being around people. This is primarily because they crave affection and attention because they are very sociable cats.
Siberian
Siberian cats get along well with everybody in the family—including other pets. They are beautiful felines that enjoy cuddling with their owners. Aside from this, Siberians are also very intelligent cats. It’d be easy for you to teach them tricks like fetch, sit, and more.
Devon Rex
Devon Rex cats are very social and love spending time with their owners—even other pets! They have boundless energy and enjoy playing with their fur parents. Aside from this, they are known for being very affectionate and loving cats. Hill Pet’s Nutrition shares, “Devon expects to be thanked with pets and loving attention and will return the affection with purring.”