The Most Affectionate Cat Breeds
Cuddly, people-focused cat breeds that love company, laps and attention — and what they need in return.
These breeds are known for seeking out human company. Many follow their people around, greet them at the door and settle on laps. Remember the other side of the deal: highly affectionate cats usually dislike being alone, so they suit households where someone is home often — or where the cat has a feline companion. Read one cat or two?
Ragdoll
A big, placid, blue-eyed cat that loves people and is often happy to be held.
Siamese
Talkative, clever and intensely people-oriented — a cat that wants a relationship.
Sphynx
Warm, wrinkly and extroverted — hairless, but definitely not maintenance-free.
Birman
Sweet, gentle and sociable, with blue eyes and white "gloves".
Devon Rex
An elfin, mischievous "pixie" with huge ears and a soft wavy coat.
Burmese
A heavy-for-its-size "brick wrapped in silk" that adores people.
Tonkinese
The Siamese–Burmese blend: social, playful and a little less loud.
Oriental Shorthair
A Siamese in hundreds of colors — just as talkative and just as devoted.
Ragamuffin
A big, cuddly, easy-going lap cat in every color.
Balinese
A long-haired Siamese: elegant, chatty and devoted.
Any cat — including a shelter moggy — can be affectionate. Adult cats have established personalities, so adopting an adult cat described as a "lap cat" is the most reliable way to get one.
For apartmentsFor families with kidsCalm & quietLow sheddingFor allergy sufferers