Welcoming a feline friend into your household can certainly spark joy and spread smiles, but what breeds make the best house cats? Our Modesto vets share a few of our favourite house cat breeds.
What's the best house cat breed?
Choosing a pet, whether it be a cat or a dog, is a very personal endeavour that should involve getting a realistic understanding of what you are looking for, and how much time you are able to devote to your furry friend.
If you work outside of the home, there are a number of domestic cat breeds that are relatively content to be left alone while you are away, but some cat breeds crave the company of people or other pets and may become anxious if left alone for long periods of time.
Keep in mind that each individual cat will have their own unique personality, but here are a few delightful breeds that can make excellent house cats when matched with their perfect pet parents.
Bengal
Looking for an eye-catching kitty to love and call your own? A Bengal cat may be the breed for you. These stunning spotted cats look like tiny leopards, weigh anywhere from 8 to 15 lbs and are one of the few breeds that actually tend to like water.
One thing to keep in mind with this breed is that they require pet parents who are willing to spend lots of time interacting with them and playing. A bored Bengal is bound to get into mischief, opening cupboards and scratching around.
Siamese
If a cat that will chat with you as you work around the house is the ideal feline friend for you, look no further than the Siamese. Weighing around 8 to 14 lbs, these elegant cats love to 'chat' and play.
Siamese cats typically form very tight bonds with their human family and aren't good at being left alone for long periods of time. If you work outside of the home but feel that a Siamese is the purrfect kitty for you, consider getting two in order to prevent separation anxiety when you are out of the house.
Sphynx
If you would really love to have a feline family member but worry about the constant battle with fur getting everywhere, a Canadian Sphynx (or just Sphynx) may be the ideal breed of house cat for you!
Sphynx are a 'hairless' breed of house cat that often has a serious facial expression but is actually a very sociable and playful breed that is brimming with character. In spite of being hairless, this adorable breed is not considered to be hypoallergenic (because they produce the same amount of allergy-causing dander as their furry counterparts), and they do have oily skin that requires regular bathing to avoid becoming greasy.
Ragdoll
A good choice for apartment dwellers seeking a feline friend, Ragdoll cats are large, long-bodied and strikingly beautiful, with long, silky coats (which also have a high tendency to shed).
Personality-wise, they are loving, sweet, and always up for cuddles. They often greet their people when they arrive home and seem to pick up tricks easily with positive reinforcement.
British Shorthair
This powerful, medium-to-large-sized breed is known for being round and thick. Originally bred to keep rodents from invading their masters’ barn and house, they play well by themselves and are a good choice for single people provided they get enough exercise and interaction from their owner.
Note that it’s important to brush your British Shorthair daily, as they tend to grow thick, dense coats in the winter, which shed with seasonal changes.
Scottish Fold
Named for their unusual folded ears, Scottish Folds are known for being active mousers who are also playful, expressive and sensitive. One of the first things you’ll notice are their striking, orange-yellow colored eyes.
They crave attention, companionship (even that of another cat), and time around people so are perhaps not the best choice if you’re out of the house for long periods. Bonus: they are very kid-friendly.
Burmese
These acrobatic, golden-eyed felines are outgoing athletes who will show off their athletic skills, provide hours of cuddles, and keep up their end of a conversation in equal measure. They shed less than some other breeds and are easy to groom with only weekly brushing requirements.
Devon Rex
This loyal, relaxed and fun-loving breed is known as the pixie of the cat world - mischievous felines with large eyes, high-set cheekbones, slender bodies, and long legs. They are a natural best friend and playmate if you’ve got young ones at home.
Kittens at heart, they are intelligent, active, and need stimulation such as playing with puzzle toys that offer treats as a reward or learning tricks.
Himalayan
Also known as “Himmies”, these calm, gentle cats boast large, deep blue eyes and long, full, dense coats.
You’ll often see a Himalayan exhibit kitten-like bursts of energy - their antics can have them snoozing in a sliver of sunlight, then suddenly up and running through the living room, on to their next adventure. Great companions, provided their owners are attentive to nutrition and give them enough exercise and interaction.
The Moggy
Moggy is a general term for a mixed-breed cat. These cats are a mixed bag of personalities depending on their roots, but typically they are healthy, content and happy creatures. Shelters across the US are filled with wonderful cats just waiting for adoring pet parents to love them. You may just be able to find the perfect house cat waiting for you at your local animal shelter, or cat rescue.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.