12 Friendliest Cat Breeds to Snuggle Up With

Is the ultimate lap cat fluffy, loving and mild-mannered? Ragdolls like this one aren't the only cuddle bugs; other cat breeds shine in the affection department as well. Reezky Pradata / Shutterstock

Cats have gotten a reputation for not being friendly, especially when compared to those extroverted, tail-wagging dogs. But cats, especially many of the friendliest cat breeds, might just be misunderstood.

Even if a cat comes across as aloof, they might just be unsure of whether they're safe to trust you yet. Some cats might also just also have other ways of showing affection: perhaps blinking at you (a sign of admiration), ignoring you (giving you your space) or just being near you (holding space).

It's important to note that personality varies between individual cats, even within the same breed. Here are some of most popular cat breeds that are sure to warm your heart with their friendly nature.

1. Siamese

Siamese cats are known for their chatty and social personalities. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when they’re the center of attention. Siamese cats are also known for bonding deeply with their cat owners.

2. Maine Coon

Maine Coons, known for being the largest domestic cat breed, are often described as gentle giants with fluffy coats and playful natures.

3. Persian

Known for their luxurious coats, Persian cats tend to be lap cats. They have a gentle nature and love to lounge with their pet parents, making them ideal for those who enjoy calm, quiet companionship.

4. Exotic Shorthair

Often called the short-haired cousin of the Persian cat, the Exotic Shorthair has the same loving personality in a lower-maintenance package. These cats also adore cuddling.

5. Burmese

Burmese cats are incredibly social and thrive in homes where they can get plenty of attention. These affectionate cat breeds are playful and curious, often following their cat owners around the house.

6. Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats are famous for their relaxed and loving personalities. True to their name, they'll often go limp like a ragdoll when picked up, making them the ultimate cuddly feline friend.

7. Sphynx

While they may lack fur, Sphynx cats make up for it with their warm personalities. These social cats crave attention and love being around their owners. Sphynx cats also tend to get along well with other pets.

8. Scottish Fold

Scottish Folds are known for their distinctive folded ears and sweet nature. They are incredibly friendly and make great family pets.

9. Abyssinian

Abyssinians are playful, energetic and curious, making them one of the most social cat breeds.

10. Birman

Birmans are known for their calming and gentle nature, making them a good choice for homes with children.

11. Tonkinese

The Tonkinese cat — a mix between Siamese and Burmese cats — also love to cuddle. They are described as being quite chatty, often purring around their humans.

12. Devon Rex

Devon Rex cats are known for being small felines with big personalities. They are highly social and enjoy the company of children and other pets.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.