12 most affectionate cat breeds

Let’s be honest: cats have a bit of a reputation. They often seem aloof, and we’re not even sure they like us half the time. They don’t greet us at the door when we come home, and they seem downright moody and uninterested in us – unless we’re opening a can of food. But not all cats are like that. (Really!) Some cats are shamelessly affectionate and rarely leave the side of their favourite human. Teresa Keiger, a judge with the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) who has lived with and shown several cat breeds, is keenly aware of the feline psyche and which breeds are the most affectionate. If you’re looking for a cat who loves to cuddle, these breeds are your best bets.

Talk about a head-turner! The Russian Blue’s plush silvery blue coat and piercing green eyes are positively gorgeous. And though it seems to emit a ‘look but don’t touch’ vibe, Keiger says not to let its aloofness toward strangers fool you. The Russian Blue is acutely perceptive and knows if someone is a friend or foe. “Once a Russian Blue considers you a friend, you’ll never have an empty lap again,” she says. “They bond completely with their owners.”

These cats may be affectionate but here are some things you do that your cat actually hates.

The Devon Rex will never be described as being distant or cold. In fact, its profile would be peppered with adjectives like affectionate, fun-loving, playful, light-hearted, spirited and prankish. Devons are interested in everything and everyone is their sphere, and they’re happy to be your sidekick all day, every day. They’re just as eager to play games with you as they are to be your permanent body hugger. “They love their owners and really wish to be with them all the time – as in all the time,” says Keiger.

One look and you’re done. Those wistful blue eyes, that cute button nose, and the gorgeous silky coat – how could you not want to cuddle? Luckily, the Birman is totally up for that and will beckon you to the sofa for snuggle time. One of the most famous Birmans out there? Choupette, who was owned by Karl Lagerfeld and acted as the late designer’s muse for a line of feline-inspired accessories. Rumour has it that Choupette had two personal assistants to tend to her every need.

As loved as they are by their humans, why don’t cats forgive?

The Abyssinian owns the catwalk. Maybe that’s a little too on the nose, but you can’t deny that the Abyssinian has the cred to pull it off. The Aby possesses an elegant, long, lean muscular physique and an arched neck that emits a supermodel vibe. Yet the Aby’s striking appearance is just one of the appealing things about this breed. These cats are also loyal, loving and outgoing. “If there were a Miss/Mister Congeniality award for the breed, the Aby would win it,” says Keiger. According to Purina, Abyssinians get along well with cat-friendly dogs, as well as other pets, like large parrots and ferrets.

Cats can be friendly and playful but why do they love boxes so much?

The Maine Coon was first recognised as a specific breed in Maine, where it was named the official cat of the state. That’s a big honour for a giant-sized cat. According to Purina Maine Coons generally weigh between 4 – 8kg, and they can be almost 100cm long! But despite their size, they still think they’re tiny kitties. “They truly have no idea of how big they are as they try to ease into your lap or your bed,” says Keiger, whose own Maine Coon acts as her armrest on the sofa every evening. Plus, they are very laid-back and easy going, she adds. Oddly enough, they even like water and are noted for their raccoon-like ability to scoop up food and water with their paws.

If you’re looking for a family-oriented feline who loves to cuddle in your lap but isn’t always in your face, the American Shorthair may be for you. An added bonus: these adorable cats are also proficient mousers. “The American Shorthair is another breed that’s easy to live with and good in an active household,” says Keiger. “Nothing much bothers them, and they enjoy hanging out with their humans.” Shorthairs can live 15 years or longer when they’re in a nurturing home and eat a quality diet.

Here some dangerous mistakes cat owners should never make.

When you think of Siamese cats, you probably think of their deep blue eyes and affinity for ‘talking’ via high-pitched yowling. These cats thrive on companionship and conversation, but are they affectionate? “Our Southeast Asian ‘slinky cats’ (including Orientals, Balinese, Javenese and Colourpoint Shorthair breeds) love to be with each other and with their owners,” says Keiger. “They have the magical trick of being able to slowly slide into your lap, and their loud purrs of contentment convince you that that is exactly where they should be.”

With its glossy black coat and copper-coloured eyes, you might think the Bombay originated in an exotic and mysterious location. But believe it or not, the Bombay actually hails from Kentucky, USA, according to the CFA. Back in 1958, cat breeder Nikki Horner bred an American Shorthair and a Burmese. The combined genes created a stunning panther-like cat who just happens to be a lover, too. “It gets its wonderful nature from both sides of its family tree,” explains Keiger. “Friendly and outgoing, the Bombay expects you to like him.”

Thinking of adopting an exotic pet? Consider these things first.

The Burmese is the cat who acts like a Labrador retriever. It loves to play fetch and is super outgoing. And like Labradors, Burmese are highly social and love to have conversations with their humans. Keiger says, “It’s another breed that genuinely wants – no, insists – on being with its owners.” Wherever you go, the Burmese will follow.

Cats or Dogs? Read on to find out which is smarter.