Top 10 Most Affectionate Cat Companions

Introduction: What Makes a Cat Affectionate?

Most cats are perceived to be aloof, cold, and independent. But this isn’t always true. When it comes to a cat’s personality, things can be rather complex. Some cats do form close, loving bonds with their humans, just as dogs do.

Cats just have different ways of showing love. Compared to dogs, most cats tend to be more subtle when displaying affection. Yet, there are cats that gaze lovingly at their humans, sit in their laps, lick them, or maintain a come-play-with-me body language all the time. Many cat breeds are known to be inherently quite loving and affectionate.

Just as in dogs, a cat’s genetics, individual personality, and environment also play an important role in their temperament. Early socialization, the environment your cat lives in, and your attitude can all shape your cat’s personality. Nevertheless, if you are looking for people-oriented, loving, and most affectionate cat breeds, then check out the ten breeds listed in this guide.

How to Spot an Affectionate Cat

It is a common misconception that cats do not show love. Cats do show love, albeit in different and more subtle ways compared to dogs. We humans just need to work harder at decoding a cat’s body language.

According to PetMD, here are some signs a cat is affectionate and friendly:

• Making eye contact – A sign of trust and the first step toward friendship.

• Head-bumping or body rubbing – A way for the cat to show affection and claim you as part of their social group.

• Licking – Grooming is a bonding behavior cats share with those they trust.

• Rolling over and showing their belly – Indicates the cat feels safe and relaxed around you and may want to be petted.

As discussed in our Why Do Cats Like to Cuddle? blog, for most cats the reasoning behind their affection is that it's part of their way of feeling safe and supported, both mentally and emotionally. Understand that not all cats show love and affection in this way. If a cat does not do any of the above, it does not necessarily mean they are any less affectionate. If a cat appears aloof or shy, give them time and respect their boundaries. Learn to read their body language and let them approach you.

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Top 10 Affectionate Cat Breeds

Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats have the sweetest temperament, which is the reason why this breed is so popular as one of the most affectionate cat breeds. They enjoy being with people and tend to follow their humans around the house. They get along well with other house pets, including dogs. Those wanting a quiet pet usually love the Ragdoll; they don’t make too much noise but will let you know when they are hungry!

Mellow Ragdolls usually spend their time on the floor; they rarely jump or climb. However, they also love snuggling with their owners or sitting on their laps. They are laid-back, social, people-loving, and curious cats. They may even greet your visitors at the door.

Maine Coon

Maine Coons are one of the friendliest cat breeds. They are good-natured cats and are often called the gentle giants of the cat world. Maine Coons make excellent pets for people with children and other pets, including dogs. They are always curious and want to be a part of all the activities going on around them.

Maine Coons are extremely playful and love climbing and running. They also eagerly chase objects on the ground. Nothing makes them happier than getting attention from their owners, and they often follow them from room to room. Maine Coons will gladly lie or sit by their owners’ feet and particularly enjoy being held.

The breed has unusual meows that sound like chirping. Many people are surprised to hear these tiny, high-pitched noises coming from such large cats.

Siamese

Siamese are one of the oldest cat breeds in the world. They are considered a national treasure in Thailand, where they originated. They are also referred to as the Royal Cats of Siam. Siamese cats were worshiped for centuries as symbols of good luck and fortune.

This is an intelligent, vocal, and affectionate cat breed that thrives on human interaction and attention. They are social butterflies and always up for an adventure. Siamese cats also happen to be one of the most vocal cat breeds. They communicate their needs through a series of chirps, meows, and purrs.

While they are affectionate and enjoy human companionship, Siamese also tend to be a bit demanding. They crave attention and do not like being ignored.

Birman

Birmans are the Sacred Cats of Burma. Legend has it that these cats lived in temples with priests. They are friendly and playful and have gentle personalities. They get along well with other housepets and are especially good with children.

Birman cats do not like being left alone, and Birman owners may want to keep other pets in the house if no people are at home during the day. This is a calm and quiet breed; they rarely meow. They are sometimes playful but mostly prefer lying quietly and watching the activities of other animals and humans. This is one reason why people describe the Birman as a polite cat.

Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is a rare cat breed that stands apart from other breeds not only because of their unusual appearance but also due to their loving nature. In fact, many dog lovers have changed their minds about felines after coming in contact with Scottish Folds. This sweet cat adores attention. They are gentle, loving, and playful and make excellent companions for families with kids and other house pets.

Unfortunately, the Scottish Fold cat breed has various genetic issues like ear infections, deafness, arthritis, and breathing problems. According to PETA UK, it is best not to buy Scottish Folds, as breeders often prioritize their appearance over their health. Breeding and trading of the Scottish is even prohibited in Europe.

Persian

The Persian has been one of the most popular cat breeds in North America for many years. They are known for their calm personalities and are among the quietest and least active of all cat breeds. Persians are good-natured and have gentle personalities. They rarely fight with other cats or house pets. This gives them the reputation of being one of the sweetest cat breeds.

Persian cats are content sitting on their owner’s lap. They are friendly and affectionate and enjoy being petted. Due to their calm and quiet nature, they are especially suitable for elderly people or households that prefer calm and quiet. At the same time, they adapt well with children as well as other dogs and cats. The long, flowing coat that defines this breed needs plenty of grooming to prevent matting and keep the skin healthy.

Sphynx

The Sphynx is a special cat because it is completely hairless. At first, you might think it doesn’t look like a cat at all. They only have a thin layer of hair on their noses, tails, and feet. The body of a Sphynx feels like a warm, fuzzy peach.

The Sphynx is more than just an unusual-looking cat. They are incredible animals to have around. They are extremely intelligent and quickly learn their names and other words. Some even learn tricks and can also be walked around on a leash.

Sphynxes have a lot of energy and are always up for a game of fetch. They are friendly and loving and love to snuggle! You will always find a Sphynx on their owner’s lap or curled around their owner’s neck. No wonder that many Sphynx owners think they have the best cats ever!

Burmese

Burmese are amusing, playful, and smart cats. They are the perfect, interactive pets for offices, shops, or homes – anyplace where people need love and amusement.

Burmese cats are loyal, people-oriented cats that love unconditionally. These affectionate cats are full of high-spirited playfulness and love to entertain their humans. This includes performing daring leaps on top of the bookshelf. They are attention-demanding cats and tend to follow their humans around. Many are lap or shoulder cats and thrive on human companionship. Burmese cats are good with children, seniors, and pets. They are not suited to an outdoor lifestyle.

Burmese cats have a raspy voice. However, they are not too talkative and only meow when they want to convey something. They have low grooming needs – just a soft brush once a week.

Tonkinese

Tonkinese are obtained by crossing Burmese and Siamese cats, combining the best traits of both breeds. Thus, Tonkinese cats can be considered to be “oriental in name but American by design.” 

Affectionately known as "Tonks," this cat breed is active, sweet-natured, and exceptionally affectionate. Playful and intelligent, they love to be involved in everything happening around the house. Tonks enjoy curling up on their humans’ laps and thrive on companionship. Naturally curious and social, they get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs.

Tonkinese cats often greet guests or visitors at the door. They love “telling” their humans all about their day and are smart enough to invent their own games. A bored and lonely Tonkinese can become mischievous.

Devon Rex or Exotic Shorthair

Devon Rexes are active, playful, and social cats. They love perching on high places, including the shoulders of their owners. Since they have short coats, they tend to seek out warm places such as under bedcovers, near the hearth, on top of appliances, or on their owners’ laps. This makes them one of the most cuddly cat breeds.

Devon Rexes are people-oriented cats and often form close, loving bonds with one particular family member. Due to their mischievous natures, they are often considered part cat, part dog, and part monkey. Devons are not too vocal and typically express themselves with a series of chirps.

They do not need too much grooming but may need frequent baths and ear cleaning to prevent infections.

Honorable Mentions

Domestic Shorthair

Domestic Shorthairs are gentle, affectionate, playful, and people-oriented cats. They have an easy-going temperament and get along well with children and dogs. These cats are not too demanding. They are also robust and suited for both indoor and outdoor lifestyles. Domestic Shorthairs are often confused with European Shorthairs and American Shorthairs. However, do note that Domestics are not pedigrees but a mixed breed.

Cornish Rex

Cornish Rexes are one of the most active cat breeds. Life with this breed is always full of excitement! They are mischievous and playful, and cat owners must catproof their house when considering buying or adopting this breed. Cornish Rexes are as enthusiastic about showing love and affection as they are about their playtime.

American Shorthair

According to the CFA, the American Shorthair is among the top 20 most registered cat breeds in the United States. Americans love them for their easy-going, calm, and friendly personalities. 

American Shorthair cats love nothing more than jumping into their people’s laps for attention. They also love playing with cat toys. They are healthy, robust cats that don’t need any special care. Their grooming needs are also low thanks to their low-shedding, short coats.

Oriental Shorthair

Orientals are rather like Siamese in temperament. They need human companionship and do not thrive when left alone for long periods. Oriental Shorthairs are playful, agile, and dog-like. They love jumping and climbing. They are vocal, curious, and active, and known for their high intelligence. These Velcro kitties remain kitten-like late into life. They also tend to be attention-demanding.

How to Choose the Right Affectionate Cat for Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right affectionate cat can be overwhelming, given the wide choice available. However, by considering your lifestyle, you can find a cat that is a perfect fit for your home and family.

Start by considering your living quarters. How much space do you have? Some cuddly cat breeds like the Cornish Rex need more space and exercise than others, while others like the Siamese are better suited to living in small apartments. 

Next, consider if you want a lap cat or a playful cuddler. Ragdolls, Maine Coons, Scottish Folds, Burmese, and Persian cats are all known to love sitting on their owners’ laps. According to WebMD, American Shorthairs are among the top cat breeds that love cuddling.

If you are away from home often, then avoid bringing sensitive breeds like Oriental Shorthairs, Sphynxes, Burmese, and Ragdolls. Those with other pets and children may want to consider breeds like American Shorthair, Maine Coon, and Ragdoll. If you want peace and quiet, avoid vocal cat breeds like Oriental Shorthairs, Maine Coons, Burmese, and Tonkinese.

• Best for families: Ragdoll, American Shorthair, and Maine Coon

• Best for apartments: Siamese, Devon Rex, Persian, American Shorthair, and Scottish Fold

• Best for cuddling: Ragdoll, Maine Coon, Scottish Fold, Sphynx, Burmese, and Birman.

• Best for first-time owners: Ragdoll, Maine Coon, Siamese, and Scottish Fold

• Best for allergy sufferers: Sphynx, Devon Rex, Siamese, and Oriental Shorthair

• Best for elderly: Ragdoll and Persian

Caring for an Affectionate Cat

Affectionate and social cats need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This can be easy to forget since most affectionate cats appear happy while doing nothing. However, you need to understand that your social cat is always ready for their next adventure.

Encourage your cat’s natural curiosity by providing safe opportunities to explore the outdoors. Instead of keeping them confined indoors, create a secure environment where they can roam without risk. Install protective screens on windows and balconies to prevent accidents and consider building a catio or enclosed yard space to let them enjoy fresh air and stimulation while staying safe.

If it is not possible for you to stay with your cat all the time, provide them with several toys, puzzles, and cat furniture for them to climb up and jump on. Create several cozy spots for them to rest in. If you work outside all day, it may be beneficial to get a companion cat or dog for your cat. Make sure to socialize them first.

If your vocal cat is always meowing or seems to suffer from anxiety, please see the vet or a cat behaviorist to understand the root cause of the issue.

Regardless of how your cat displays affection, respecting their space and creating positive associations with handling and other physical interaction is key to supporting the emotional well-being of your kitty and earning their trust in the long run. Forcing our feline friends to interact is never a good idea, so creating opportunities for healthy play and engagement with a cat-friendly environment that helps them feel safe enough to connect is a great way to start. More in our blog Environmental Enrichment - Catification.

Conclusion: Every Cat Shows Love Differently

Many people prefer cat breeds that are loving and affectionate, clingy even, and that can be counted upon to welcome their visitors or sit in their laps. While some cat breeds are inherently more affectionate and show these behaviors, every cat breed is capable of showing love and affection with time and trust. So, it is important to look beyond breed stereotypes.

There is no doubt you will do a world of good when you adopt a cat from the shelter or animal rescue group. With proper socialization and patience, an adopted cat, regardless of their breed or mixed ancestry, can become the affectionate and devoted companion you have always wanted.

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Reference List

1. https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/does-my-cat-love-me

2. https://www.peta.org.uk/blog/scottish-fold-cats/

3. https://cfa.org/breed/american-shorthair/

4. https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/most-affectionate-cat-breeds-for-cat-lovers

5. https://basepaws.com/products/basepaws-cat-dna-test

6. https://basepaws.com/blog/5-signs-your-cat-trusts-you-how-to-build-that-trust

7. https://basepaws.com/blogs/news/why-do-cats-like-to-snuggle

8. https://basepaws.com/blog/environmental-enrichment-catification