How Do I Know My Cat’s Breed?
In this article, we look at ten popular cat breeds and the personality traits each is known for.
To be fair, we believe every cat has a unique personality of her own — and a unique bond with you.
Even so, breed does shape personality to some extent, and some breeds show typical characteristics.
You might be wondering: what do I gain from looking into my cat’s breed?
Dear cat lover, knowing your cat’s breed can help you learn more about her personality and understand her behavior — so you can meet her unique needs and strengthen your friendship.
Cats can be bold and affectionate, or calm and reserved; some are loyal and very friendly, while others are more independent and strong-willed.
Depending on their breed, some cats need plenty of stimulation and exercise, while others need more affection and cuddles.
So let’s give our cats a hug and compare ten common breeds and their general personalities.
1.Domestic Shorthair
The domestic shorthair is the most common cat of all. As a mix of many breeds, it can be black, gray, white, calico (a multicolored coat, often white with patches of two colors), tabby, tuxedo or tortoiseshell.
Shorthairs’ personalities are as varied as their looks, but in general they’re all strong and lively.
It’s worth noting that domestic shorthairs were originally “working cats” whose job was to keep rodents under control on farms.
That means they have a strong hunting instinct, which should be satisfied with stimulating, exciting toys.
Their urge to hunt gives them lots of energy, even at night — so don’t be surprised by a sudden case of the 4 a.m. zoomies.
- 2. Abyssinian
This ancient breed is known for its reddish coat, though colors can range from cinnamon to blue.
Abyssinians are lively, playful and intensely curious. They’ll follow you all around the house and yard, and even try to “help” with your chores.
The Abyssinian is a clever cat that loves games — they can even learn tricks!
They’re chatty too, with sweet little sounds you’ll love hearing.
Abyssinians are very attached to their owners and don’t like being left alone. They need lots of affection, attention and active play.
3.Bengal
Bengals have a spotted coat like their ancestor, the Asian leopard cat. They’re talkative and friendly, need plenty of exercise, and can really benefit from walks outdoors.
Like father, like son: just like their wild ancestors, Bengals are exceptional hunters and highly intelligent.
They have excellent memories and will happily learn fun tricks.
And unlike most cats, they love water and enjoy playing in it.
4.Lykoi
A soft mix of black and white fur with patches of baldness gives the Lykoi its striking look.
Also known as the wolf cat or werewolf cat, this new breed has an unusual personality to match its unusual appearance.
Lykois are very loving and affectionate, but often shy with strangers.
They especially enjoy games that involve problem-solving and finding hidden objects (like a favorite toy you’ve hidden).
They can be possessive about their favorite toys, and although a Lykoi seems independent and will play alone, it still needs plenty of affection.
5.Maine Coon
This breed is unusually large, with big paws and a long, thick coat.
Naturally, they have big appetites to match their size.
Maine Coons are calm, very friendly and great company, and their curiosity means they’ll follow you wherever you go.
They’re also very social — they love being close to people and other animals, so don’t be surprised if they pull a funny stunt to become the center of attention.
6.Persian
This gentle breed is known for its long coat and flat face. Persians need regular grooming and should be kept indoors.
Persians are usually quiet and somewhat reserved. They dislike loud noise and love lounging like royalty on a cushion or in your warm lap.
They’re less active than other breeds, and their short legs make them less inclined to jump and climb.
They enjoy attention but won’t demand it — they’re laid-back even about showing their feelings.
Persians are often very shy with strangers, but affectionate with the people they know.
7.Ragdoll
This large, affectionate breed is easygoing and sweet-natured, with blue eyes, a soft coat and Siamese-like point markings.
Ragdolls are extremely loyal and will follow you around the house like a puppy.
They need interactive play to make sure they get enough exercise.
For their wellbeing, they love being held and stroked; you may hear a sweet, musical meow, though they’re usually very quiet.
- Russian Blue
Playful, clever and a little shy, the Russian Blue is known for its bluish-gray coat and bright green eyes.
They hate loud sounds like vacuum cleaners and are often calm and somewhat reserved — yet they love playing with the people they know and love.
Russian Blues are friendly and very loving, and will always greet you at the door when you get home — so give them a little cuddle when you walk in to show you care.
9.Siamese
Highly intelligent and bold, Siamese cats are strong-willed and talkative — when they have an opinion, they’ll definitely let you know.
Not every Siamese has the chocolate-colored points the breed is famous for; their distinctive pattern is a natural mutation.
Siamese cats bond strongly with their owners. They’re very loving and need active, stimulating play and lots of affection, as their personalities call for plenty of social interaction.
- Sphynx
These completely hairless cats are social, active and loyal.
They may look grumpy, but their personalities are quite the opposite.
The Sphynx is friendly with other pets and loves snuggling up to furry friends — as if to make up for having no fur of its own.
With no hair to keep them warm, they love cozy cuddles and sleeping under the covers — and will meow in protest if you disturb their nap.
The Sphynx is chatty and always hungry, so rest assured she’ll let you know when dinner is late — the perfect example of the saying that the way to the heart is through the stomach.
