15 Types of Cats to Adopt and Spoil

One of the larger and most popular cat breeds, the Maine Coon is known for its thick, long fur and tufted ears. These affectionate giants have a playful personality and enjoy spending time with their family. Despite their size, they are gentle, making them a great match for homes with kids or other pets.

Persians are famous for their luxurious fur and calm demeanor, making them one of the best cat breeds for laid-back owners. Their large, round eyes and flat faces give them a distinctive look, but their long coats require regular grooming.

These cats are loving and affectionate, preferring a quiet environment where they can relax and purr in style.

Bengals are high-energy cats with striking patterns that resemble wild animals. Their fur has a unique shimmer, and they are one of the most playful cat breeds, always looking for adventure. They require a lot of stimulation, making them a great match for active owners who enjoy interactive play.

This breed stands out with its dense, short coat of shimmering silver-blue fur. Russian Blues are medium-sized cats known for their affectionate yet reserved nature. They are intelligent, love routine and form strong bonds with their family, making them a great breed for a mellow home environment.

One of the most unusual cat breeds, the Sphynx is completely hairless but makes up for it with lots of personality! These cats are known for their playful and warm nature, often seeking affection and attention.

Without hair, they need extra care to keep their skin clean, but their loving temperament makes them a favorite among cat lovers.

Siamese cats are one of the oldest and most recognizable breeds, with sleek bodies and striking blue eyes. The old-style Siamese has a more traditional look, while modern variations have a slimmer appearance.

They are highly vocal, social and full of energy, making them perfect for owners who enjoy a talkative and interactive pet.

A calm and sturdy breed, the British Shorthair is known for its round face, dense coat and affectionate yet independent nature. These cats come in many colors, including the famous blue-gray variety. They are perfect for families looking for a low-maintenance cat with a loving and undemanding personality.

Ragdolls are large, friendly cats known for their relaxed nature and eager interest in their owners activities. Their silky fur and striking blue eyes make them one of the most beautiful cat breeds.

They love being around people and are often described as puppy-like due to their social and friendly behavior.

Scottish Folds are easily recognized by their unique folded ears, which give them an owl-like appearance. These cats have a calm and loving temperament, making them great companions for a variety of home environments.

Their medium-sized build and thick fur — which comes in pretty much any color, from black to white to cinnamon — add to their charm.

Abyssinians are energetic and curious cats with a short, ticked coat that gives them a wild appearance. These intelligent cats are always on the move, exploring their surroundings and playing with their owners.

If you’re looking for a cat that thrives on activity and interaction, this breed is a great choice.

This large and fluffy breed comes from Europe and is built for cold climates, with a thick double coat that repels water.

Norwegian Forest Cats are independent but affectionate, making them great for owners who appreciate a balance between playfulness and calm. They love climbing and need plenty of space to explore.

Burmese cats are affectionate and social, often seeking out human companionship. They have a short, sleek coat and a solid build, making them a visually striking breed. Their playful and loving personality makes them a great choice for families or individuals looking for an engaging pet.

Known as the “swimming cat,” the Turkish Van has a love for water and an unusual coat pattern, usually white with colored markings on the head and tail. They are energetic and intelligent, making them a fun and entertaining breed to have around. These cats need plenty of space to climb and play.

The Cornish Rex has a unique appearance with its short, wavy fur and large ears. Unlike most cats, their fur lacks guard hairs, giving them an ultra-soft feel. They are playful, social and love to be the center of attention, making them a great breed for interactive owners.

A sleek and slender breed, the Oriental Shorthair comes in a wide variety of cat colors and patterns. These cats are highly intelligent and vocal, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their striking appearance and lively personality make them a favorite among those who love engaging pets.

With so many cat types out there, choosing the right one is no small matter. Some are known for their energy, while other breeds are prized for their unique fur colors, and many for their loving personalities.

Of course, the breed will only tell you so much; a true match will depend on the personality of the individual cat and how well it meshes with your own.

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