So you have decided to welcome a cat into your family? First of all, congratulations! Cats are amazing companions and you’ll surely have some exciting and joyful moments together. But, how can you decide which cat you want? The fact is that there’s a lot to think about and to consider once you have made the decision of getting a feline.
Depending on your lifestyle, your family composition and your preferences, you’ll find that some cat breeds are more fit to what you are looking for than others. Read along for some great tips on how to choose the best cat breed if you are a first time owner!
Tips to choose the right cat for your family
As we have mentioned above, there are quite a few considerations to take into account when making the decision of bringing a new cat into your family. Each cat breed is different in many aspects. They vary in sizes, colors, personalities, types of fur, requirements, health matters, and more. In this sense, it’s useful to know more about the different factors that you should consider when choosing the best cat for your family. Here we will share with you a few tips that could help you with this:
- Active or calmer?: there are certain cat breeds which have a tendency to be more playful and active, while there are others which are usually calmer and more relaxed. Depending on what you think you’ll prefer or what could suit your lifestyle best, you might want to consider a breed that is usually more active or one that is calmer.
- Level of affection: cats are not usually the most affectionate animals. Unlike dogs, they will not go around seeking attention and love all the time. Nevertheless, there are some cat breeds which are known for being more affectionate than others. Do you prefer a cat that will demand a higher level of caring or one that will be fine with little attention? Consider this when choosing the best cat breed for you!
- High or low maintenance: depending on your time availability and lifestyle, it might be best for you to choose a cat breed that requires more or less grooming. There are some breeds which are more high-maintenance than others, so it’s also important to take this into account when making the decision of which cat you will bring into your life.
- Type of fur: having allergies to cats is quite common so, if you know that you or any of your family members are allergic to cats, then you should consider going for a cat breed that is as hypoallergenic as possible, such as can be the Devon Rex or the Siberian. There are cat breeds which shed a lot, so bear in mind that it’s best to avoid these breeds if there’s allergies in the family. Luckily there are many options for you if this is your case, and we will tell you all about them in this article!
- Age: do you prefer to go for a kitten, a young cat or an adult? Some people prefer to go with cats which are already grown up, whereas others would rather have kittens which they can raise.
- What is your family composition?: the overall composition of your family is also something that you should take into account when deciding which cat breed you want to get. Do you live alone? Do you have any children? Are there any other pets in your house already? There are some breeds which are more friendly with kids than others; and there are also some which tend to get along better with other animals, such as dogs.
In this sense, it’s important to consider the social habits of the cats when choosing a breed. This is important not only for the cat, but for you and your family. To give you an example: a cat which is not sociable won’t be very happy living in a household with a lot of people, and even though you will probably also create a solid bond with a cat like this, it’s likely that you’ll find a better fit with a cat breed that has the tendency to be more affectionate and more comfortable among humans.
20 of the most popular cat breeds for first-time owners
As you may imagine, there are a lot of different cat breeds to choose from, so it can be a bit overwhelming to make the final decision amongst all these possibilities. Now that you know a bit more about the different things to consider when choosing your first cat, we are going to tell you more about the 20 most popular breeds for first-time owners.
Even though all of these beautiful cat breeds are excellent options for every first-time cat owner, each of them have specific features and particularities. In this sense, not all of these cat breeds will be a fit for everyone, but one thing is certain: amongst all of the diverse possibilities of cat breeds, you will find one that is the perfect match for you and your family.
Devon Rex Cat
This playful and adorable cat breed is perfect for you if you are aiming for a cat that is playful and energetic. Devon Rex cats can have furs of many different colors, such as platinum, chocolate, and even blueish! Their bodies are long and lanky, and their hair is short and curly. If you tend to spend a lot of time away from home, then this cat breed can be a great choice for you. Devon Rex cats don’t mind spending a lot of time home alone when their families are away, so it shouldn’t be a problem.
Ragdoll Cat
The Ragdoll cats are a great option for first-time cat owners because of their chill, laid-back personalities. They are quite calm and docile, so it’s a very good choice for you to have your first close approach to the world of cats. Their furs are soft, silky and long, and they require occasional brushing. Nevertheless, other than that, they are quite easy to groom. They are affectionate and enjoy physical contact with their human families, but won’t complain if they are left alone for some time.
Oriental shorthair
These majestic, beautiful cats are very independent and easy-going. Their most distinctive physical feature is probably their eyes: they have big, amazing crystal-clear eyes that transmit a lot. They tend to be quite calm and relaxed, so they also prefer to be in environments which are quiet.
They also enjoy being alone and they are not the most sociable cats. If there are visitors, the Oriental shorthair will probably choose to go somewhere calmer. In this sense, if your household is very noisy or if your life rhythm is too active, then it might not be the best for this cat breed.
Cornish Rex cat
The Cornish Rex cats are a wonderful choice if you have kids. These cats are very playful and fun, both as kittens and during their adulthood, so your children will surely enjoy spending some joyful moments with them. They are also very lovable and like spending time with humans. If you have other animals, then a Cornish red cat will probably be a great choice for you. They usually get along very well with other animals, including dogs, so it’s likely that you won’t have any problems when introducing the new pet to your other fellow animals.
Siamese
You probably have heard about Siamese cats before, as they are one of the most popular cat breeds. Siamese cats are very friendly and love spending time with their families, so bear in mind that this breed is a good choice if there’s usually someone at your house. If, on the other hand, you think that your chosen cat will be staying alone for a lot of time, then this breed is likely not the best option for you.
Regarding their maintenance needs, they are very easy-going, smart and patient, so it’s easy to groom them and they are also quite independent in this sense. Siamese cats are also very versatile and adaptable, so they can easily understand when it’s ok to be active and energetic and when it’s better to calm down and settle.
Bengal
At a first glance, Bengal cats look quite exotic, but the fact is that they are domesticated cats which resulted from the mix of different cat breeds. Bengal cats are very versatile and flexible felines, so they can adapt to many different situations, environments and circumstances. In this sense, if you’re not sure which cat breed would be the best fit for you, a Bengal cat is probably always a safe choice. They are very curious, intelligent, loving and laid-back.
Exotic Shorthair
These cats are very calm and easy-going, and it’s possible that, because of this, they seem more lethargic than other cats. In this sense, if you’re looking for a cat with a more relaxed personality, this could be a great option for you. Moreover, their eyes are doughy, so this also makes them look sleepy at all times of the day. What they need the most is to have a space in the house where they can be quiet and chill. They tend to get along quite well with children and with other animals in the house, such as dogs.
Birman
These cats are beautiful, both on the outside and on the inside. They are majestic creatures, with silky, shiny hair; and they are also loving and sweet. Birman cats come in a wide variety of colors, and they tend to have some marking on their tails, heads or legs. They have tough bodies and enjoy some rough, friendly playing with other animals of the house or with children, so if you have a dog or if you have energetic kids at home, this breed could be a good match for your family.
Abyssinian
If you love dogs as much as you love cats, then the Abyssinian breed is definitely one to take into account. It’s said that these cats tend to be as attached to humans as dogs usually are. In this sense, they are very cuddly and friendly. They always prefer to play with other companions rather than being by themselves.
They have an outgoing personality and love spending time around others, so if there’s usually someone at your place, this cat breed could be a great option for you. But if it’s the case that you are usually not at home, then maybe it’s not the best idea to go for an Abyssinian, as they could feel lonely and down if they are alone for a lot of time.
Persian
What makes these cats so popular and special is their beautiful, thick and long hair. It’s always a great pleasure to pet a Persian cat! As much as their furs are amazing, they also are quite high-maintenance and need regular brushing, so take this into consideration when thinking about adopting a Persian cat.
Regarding their personalities, Persian cats are usually quite calm and relaxed, and can adapt to almost any space, whether it’s an apartment or a big house. In this sense, they are very versatile and could be a great fit for many people.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. They can come in many different colors and it’s also usual to see cats which are a mix between Maine Coon breed and other breeds. They are tough and strong, so they can be a very good fit for kids who sometimes can play a bit rough with cats.
Their furs are soft and silky, and they need to be brushed quite regularly. They are also very friendly and cuddly, and love to be petted by their families. Maine Coon cats are also very smart, and they can learn tricks and adapt to the household rules fast and easily.
British Shorthair
British Shorthair cats are very calm, relaxed and easy-going, so they can be a great option for first-time cat owners who don’t have a lot of experience with these animals. Their bodies are solid, thick and strong and their furs tend to be of a greyish-blueish color. One interesting fact about these beautiful cats is that they love to eat! Bear this in mind, because they should be fed 2 or 3 times a day, instead of providing them with a one-time big meal.
American Shorthair
As you can probably guess from the name, American Shorthairs are cats with a smooth, soft and short coat which is very pleasant to stroke and pet. They have very playful, chill and friendly personalities. They usually get along very well with other animals so, if you have other pets, going for an American Shorthair can be a very good idea. They will surely become great friends with your other pets!
Regarding their relationship with kids, these cats are also very friendly and feel very comfortable with them. All of this makes the American Shorthair cats an excellent option for first-time owners with kids or with other pets in the house. American Shorthairs don’t require a lot of grooming and will probably stay quite close to home if they go out to wander around for some time.
Sphynx
The Sphynx cats are one of the best options for people who adore cats but sadly are allergic to them. This cat breed is hairless, so they enter into the category of the so called hypoallergenic cat breeds. This feature also makes them quite low-maintenance, because you won’t have to worry about brushing their hair or about possible flea infestations. Sphynx cats love climbing and adore heights, so don’t be surprised to find them on top of your bookshelf. They are quite calm and love to take naps on their humans’ laps.
Scottish Fold
The most particular feature of the Scottish Fold cats are their ears. Because of the mutation of a gene, the growth of the cartilages of their ears is affected, so they have very small-folded ears. Their eyes are big and full of expression, and their furs are short and very soft. They don’t shed a lot, so they are also an interesting option if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic cat breed. Scottish Fold cats are very affectionate, caring and loyal, and enjoy spending time around people.
Somali
Somali cats are very active, playful and energetic. In this sense, it’s important to provide them with toys and items to keep them entertained while being inside the house. It’s also a good idea to have a scratching post and a climbing unit so they can focus their intense energy there, instead of around the furniture!
As full of energy as they are, their attention usually goes towards being active and not so much into eating, so you can just leave a bowl of food for them every day and they will administer it themselves depending on their needs.
Russian Blue
Russian Blue cats are very intelligent and have a quiet and chill personality. They very much enjoy being around humans, but mostly around those who they are familiar with, so don’t be surprised if they disappear if you have strangers coming home. As their name indicates, their furs are blueish, and also silky, soft and short.
Russian Blue cats are also very loyal and perceptive, and will stay beside their families no matter what. In this sense, having a Russian Blue join your family means building a strong, everlasting bond.
Norwegian Forest cat
These cats are very independent, calm and relaxed, so it’s a great option for first-time owners who would rather have a quieter furry friend than one that is intense and active. Their coats are semi-long, silky and water repellent. Their heads are flat and their bodies large.
They won’t usually be around humans actively looking for affection, but they will come to you for some petting when they feel ready to do so. Norwegian Forest cats love heights, so having a climbing unit or a scratching post for them to entertain themselves is a very good idea if you’re thinking of getting one of these beautiful animals.
Domestic Shorthair
The Domestic Shorthair cats are the result of mixed breeds and they don’t fall into a specific breed type. It’s the usual name that’s given to rescue cats, which are found on the streets, either because they were abandoned by their former owners or because they were born on the streets.
And they are some of the most loyal, caring and lovable companions which you can find in the cat world! Giving a rescue cat the opportunity to have a new life, full of the love and affection which they deserve, is also a wonderful thing to do. You will certainly forge a strong bond with a Domestic Shorthair if you decide to get one into your family.
Burmese
As happens with Abyssinian cats, the Burmese cats enjoy human contact very much and are widely known for having similar habits as dogs. So this is also a great option to consider for those who love dogs! A Burmese cat will surely be found spending time with their families and have a tendency to develop strong bonds with them. They are very loyal and affectionate, as well as smart and curious.
To sum up, as you can see there are plenty of different cat breeds which can be excellent choices for first-time owners. Each of these cats have their own particularities and features. Depending on what you’re looking for, there will be some that will be a better fit for you than others.
There’s a cat for every person and you will surely find the one that is the perfect match. One thing is certain: having a cat in your life is one of the best decisions you can make! Whichever cat breed you choose, you’ll see how you will create a strong, lifelong bond with your new, amazing furry friend. Which of the cat breeds that we introduced to you in this article is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
