22 Cutest Cat Breeds You'll Want to Add to Your Family Immediately
They're just purr-fect!
Cats have an uncanny ability to capture our hearts. With their playful personalities, mischievous antics, and, of course, their irresistible cuteness, it's no surprise that not even Ree Drummond can escape their charms! She once wrote, "Did you know there’s nothing on earth that’s better than a good cat? A good cat is good for the health. A good cat is good for the soul." And really, no truer statement has ever been made.
If you've made it here, chances are you agree—and you're also looking for a dose of delight in the form of the cutest cat breeds. That or you want to add a new feline friend to your family! (If that's the case, make sure you pick out the perfect boy cat names or girl cat names along with plenty of fun cat toys.) Either way, this list includes the fluffiest, cuddliest and downright cutest cats for you to ogle over. And while all kitties are cute as can be, some breeds just create an unmatched desire to cuddle.
On this list, you'll find feline friends with luxurious long fur like Persians and cats with short curly coats like the LaPerm—with a range of striped, spotted, and point coloration. There are both large, delightfully fluffy figures such as ragamuffins and Maine coons, as well as sleek, sophisticated companions like the Siamese and Abyssinian. You'll even find cats with rare features like folded ears, short legs, and stubby tails—all of which are uniquely adorable. There's something for everyone to fall in love with!
Want even more cat content? Check out these stories!
Ragdoll
The striking blue eyes and impressively silky semi-long to long coat of the ragdoll will immediately catch your attention. Though these pretty cats are one of the biggest domestic breeds, they're known for their docile, relaxed temperaments, and affectionate nature.
Weight: 10 to 20 pounds
LaPerm
The LaPerm gets its name from their fur, which is naturally "permed" into tight curls or soft waves that come in a variety of colors and patterns. They have a playfully affectionate personality and will enjoy time with their toys before curling up in your lap for a nap.
Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
Scottish Fold
A genetic mutation gives these cute kitties their small, folded ears and adorably round appearance. Along with their looks, the Scottish Fold has a very friendly and social personality, so they'd make a great addition to any family with kids or pets.
Weight: 6 to 13 pounds
Birman
Also called the "Sacred Cat of Burma," the Birman is a luxurious looking long-haired cat with beautiful blue eyes, a stocky body, and contrasting white "gloves" on each paw. They have a quiet demeanor and thrive on human companionship.
Weight: 6 to 14 pounds
Munchkin
Munchkin cats are instantly recognizable because of their short legs, which are actually caused by genetic mutation. Despite their petite limbs, they're usually quite active felines with an affectionate and loving personality. Just like ordinary domestic cats, they come in all colors and fur lengths.
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Abyssinian
A distinctive "ticked" tabby coat in which individual short-hairs are banded with different colors makes this kitty unique. The Abyssinian's lean and muscular body means they love to play and stay active, but they're intelligent and friendly, too.
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Maine Coon
The Maine coon is the definition of a gentle giant! They're the largest domestic cat breed, also characterized by majestic-looking pointy tufted ears, and a big bushy tail. Even with their size, they're so sweet natured, gentle, and great with children or other pets.
Weight: 8 to 22 pounds
Bombay
Just like a panther in miniature form, the Bombay is a short-haired breed with a glossy black coat, large copper-golden eyes, and a muscular build. They're also known to be curious, active, and highly extroverted, affectionate cats.
Weight: 5 to 11 pounds
Bengal
This hybrid cat was created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with domestic cats. Because of this, Bengal cats have a wild appearance marked by bold marbling and spotting on their thick coats. Their bodies are sleek and muscular, and they need to stay active to be content—but they're also intelligent, loyal, and loving.
Weight: 8 to 16 pounds
British Shorthair
The most popular version of the British shorthair is this "British Blue" kitty with a thick, solid gray-blue coat and large yellow eyes. Their body is stocky and compact, and their face is broad yet so cute. As for personality, this breed is easygoing and friendly.
Weight: 7 to 17 pounds
Siamese
Much like their portrayal in Lady and the Tramp, Siamese cats are highly intelligent, sociable, and mischievous. They love being the center of attention but are loyal to their owners. They're gorgeous, too! The lithe, long-bodied cats are known for their dark point coloration and bright blue eyes.
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
American Curl
Ears that curl back from the face toward their head make the American curl so unique and just as adorable. They can be either short-haired or long-haired and enjoy interacting with their humans. They'll probably want daily exercise and love high perches for climbing and jumping.
Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
American Bobtail
Most notable for its wild look and stubby "bobbed" tail that's about one-third to one-half the length of a normal domestic cat's tail, the American bobtail makes an excellent companion. They're outgoing, playful, and loving. Plus, they're highly adaptable to their surroundings.
Weight: 7 to 16 pounds
Ragamuffin
Say hello to your newest cuddle buddy! The ragamuffin cat is on the larger side with a muscular frame, long tail and extra plush coat. And they're just as gentle as they are gorgeous. These large lap cats have sweet temperaments: they're docile, friendly, and adaptable.
Weight: 10 to 20 pounds
Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is just as cute as can be with its curly coat! They come in all colors and coat patterns as well as both long and short-haired varieties. In addition to that stuffed animal-like fur, they have a mellow temperament—but are also so warm, affectionate, and playful.
Weight: 6 to 16 pounds
Persian
Persian cats are perhaps one of the prettiest breeds around! They are widely known for their long, flowing fur and round face with a short muzzle. Personality wise, they are very sweet, gentle, and patient. Though they'd prefer a calm environment, they can also easily adapt.
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
Russian Blue
A striking short, dense coat that ranges from light shimmering silver to a dark slate gray color inspired the name of this pretty kitty. The Russian blue is highly intelligent and curious, needing both physical and mental stimulation. Bring on the toys! They're also so gentle and affectionate.
Weight: 7 to 15 pounds
Egyptian Mau
The rare Egyptian mau is one of the few naturally spotted breeds of domesticated cat. Their coats come in a range of colors with each cat having a unique pattern of spots. They're elegant and athletically built with sleek, muscular bodies. These felines enjoy a lot of playtime and love, so they're ideal for families.
Weight: 6 to 14 pounds
Norwegian Forest Cat
Affectionately known as "Wegies," Norwegian forest cats are well-adapted to cold climate thanks to their topcoat of long, glossy hair with a thick, wooly undercoat. They have a large, strong, and powerful body—but still make for wonderful pets. They're social, attention-loving, and extra cuddly.
Weight: 9 to 20 pounds
Chartreux
Though rare, the chartreux is too precious to pass up. You might recognize them for their sweet, rounded face, wooly blue-gray coat, and big orange eyes. They are heavily muscular with very fast reflexes, but have a beloved quiet, calm, and friendly temperament.
Weight: 7 to 17 pounds
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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