What's the best house cat breed?
The answer to this question depends on the personality, physical attributes and other characteristics you're looking for in your feline companion. Cats are as unique as their humans; while some are playful attention seekers, others are placid snoozers. Here are some breeds amiable to a life indoors.
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.