15 Popular Cat Breeds for Feline Lovers in the US in 2023
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Introduction
Are you a cat lover looking to add a new feline friend to your household? With so many different cat breeds to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 most popular cat breeds in the US for 2023. These breeds were chosen based on their unique characteristics, personality traits, and popularity among cat owners. Whether you’re looking for a playful and energetic companion or a calm and affectionate lap cat, there’s a breed on this list for everyone. So read on to learn more about the most popular breeds of cats and find the perfect furry friend for you.
Top Best Cat Breeds in US
1. Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is a large, gentle cat with a sweet, loving personality that makes it an excellent companion for children. They are known for their docile nature and easygoing disposition, which makes them ideal for families. In fact, the Ragdoll is often referred to as the “dog-like cat” because of how affectionate and playful they can be.
HEIGHT | 9-11 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-20 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 9-15 years |
COLOR | Blue, seal, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, and various patterns such as point, mitted, bicolor, and lynx |
TRAITS | Docile and affectionate, often going limp when held or picked up; generally calm and laid-back, but also enjoy playtime and interactive toys |
2. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthairs are known for their long, silky coats and their docile personality. They have a calm, affectionate nature that makes them ideal companions for families who want a cat that can live well with other pets or children. This cat breed is known for its intelligence, which makes it easy to train and handle. It also has a long lifespan of up to 20 years, making it an excellent choice for those who want the companionship for many years to come.
HEIGHT | 9-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 7-15 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Many different colors and patterns are available, including solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Easygoing and relaxed personality; affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their humans, but also appreciate their alone time and may be more independent than some other cat breeds |
3. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a large, longhaired cat with an intelligent and gentle personality. As the name implies, these cats were originally bred to hunt raccoons in Maine—but they can also be trained to use a litter box. They are not a good choice for homes with small children as they may knock over toddlers or step on them accidentally.
HEIGHT | 10-16 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 9-18 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Many different colors and patterns are available, including solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Intelligent and curious, with a playful and social personality; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
4. Bengal
If you’re looking for a cat with a high energy level and lots of personalities, look no further than the Bengal. They are known for their intelligence and affectionate nature, so if you want a cat who will always be by your side, then this might be your ideal choice. The Bengal also has an independent streak that will make it easy for you to leave them alone during the day while you’re at work or school—they’re not necessarily needy like other cats!
HEIGHT | 9-11 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-15 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-16 years |
COLOR | Many different colors and patterns are available, including solid, tabby, spotted, and marbled |
TRAITS | Active and curious, with a playful and energetic personality; highly intelligent and enjoy games and toys that challenge their minds and bodies; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
5. Siamese
Siamese cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the US for good reason. These super smart and affectionate felines are wonderful companions who enjoy spending time with their owners. Siamese cats were originally bred to be companions for royalty, but today they make great pets for anyone looking for a high-energy feline.
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 5-10 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Four traditional colors: seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac; various patterns including pointed, tabby, and solid |
TRAITS | Highly intelligent, vocal, and social cats that crave attention and interaction with their humans; chatty and demanding nature; very playful and curious, and enjoy games and toys that challenge their minds |
6. Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is a breed of cat known for its playful and friendly personality. It has long, silky hair, and its coats come in many colors and patterns. The Abyssinian is also known for its intelligence and agility, making it a good choice if you are looking for an indoor cat that can keep up with your active lifestyle.
HEIGHT | 9-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 7-10 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Four traditional colors: ruddy, red, blue, and fawn; various patterns including ticked, classic, and silver |
TRAITS | Active and curious, with a playful and energetic personality; highly intelligent and enjoy games and toys about minds and bodies; independent, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
7. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are among the most popular cat breeds in the United States. They’ve been around for centuries, but only recently began to gain popularity among cat owners due to their adorable appearance and affectionate personality.
HEIGHT | 8-9 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 6-13 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Many various colors and patterns such as solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Sweet and affectionate, with a calm and easygoing personality; known for their unique folded ears, which may cause some hearing issues; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
8. Sphynx
Sphynx cats or bald-faced cats do not have fur on their bodies. They are characterized by their lack of hair and a full head of hair that resembles a lion’s mane. The Sphynx has the appearance of a small leopard with its tawny-colored skin and prominent whiskers, large ears covered with fine hair, and eyes that appear to be set deeply into their face.
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 6-12 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-14 years |
COLOR | Many various colors and patterns such as solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Energetic and social, with a curious and playful personality; known for their unique hairless appearance and need for regular bathing; may be more dependent on their humans for attention and affection than some other cat breeds |
9. Birman
The Birman is a domestic cat breed that is named after the Birman Empire in Burma. This breed of cat has been around for centuries and is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. It makes a very gooPersiand companion animal, as it enjoys being around people, especially children.
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-12 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-16 years |
COLOR | Traditional colors: seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac; various patterns including pointed, tabby, and solid |
TRAITS | Sweet and affectionate, with a calm and laid-back personality; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime; known for their distinctive white paws and facial markings |
10. Persian
The Persian is a long-haired cat breed of the domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) family. Persians are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world and are considered by many to be among the most beautiful. The head is round with large eyes and a short muzzle. The eyes can be green, gold, or copper depending on coat coloration; they are typically set wide apart in an egg-shaped head on large ears that may be tipped or pointed at their tips. The body should be stocky, but not fat.
HEIGHT | 10-11 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-12 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-16 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Sweet and affectionate, with a calm and easygoing personality; known for their long, thick coat and flat face, which may require regular grooming; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
11. Norwegian Forest
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a true cat lover’s cat. They love to play but they also enjoy their quiet moments of sitting by the window and watching birds. They can be extremely affectionate to their human companions, but they usually do not demand attention. They are very active and love hunting, which makes them a great choice for families with children or other pets. The Norwegian Forest Cat has some strong personality traits that make it an excellent pet for those who enjoy friendly yet independent cats that have a playful streak.
HEIGHT | 10-16 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 9-16 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-16 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Intelligent and independent, with a playful and curious personality; known for their thick, waterproof coat and fondness for climbing; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
12. Devon Rex
If you’re looking for a cat who loves attention and is always ready for playtime, then you might want to consider a Devon Rex. These petite yet playful cats love to show off their acrobatic abilities. They will even jump on sofas, dressers, and kitchen counters just to get your attention! They also adore exercise sessions including chasing after cat toys and jumping from furniture (on purpose). Providing them with cat perches or a cat tree will be very appreciated by this high-energy breed of cats.
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 6-10 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Playful and energetic, with a social and affectionate personality; known for their unique wavy or curly coat and large, expressive ears; may be more dependent on their humans for attention and affection than some other cat breeds |
13. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a domestic cat that has been bred in the United Kingdom since the 19th century. The breed was created by crossing native British cats with Siamese, Russian Blue, and other foreign types, producing a new longhaired cat. In 1903, it became one of three recognized breeds in Britain (the others being Persian and Longhair).
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-20 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-17 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Gentle and affectionate, with a calm and easygoing personality; known for their short, thick coat and stocky build; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
14. American Shorthair
American Shorthair is a breed of domestic cat. Originating in the United States, they are one of the oldest and most popular breeds in North America. American Shorthairs were first developed as a breed in the 1950s by Ann Baker, who was looking for an all-around family cat with good health and a gentle temperament. A typical American Shorthair has been described as being “a sturdy cat that looks like it could be useful as an oceangoing fishing boat.”
HEIGHT | 8-10 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-15 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-15 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Playful and energetic, with a curious and social personality; known for their short, thick coat and athletic build; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
15. Siberian
Siberian cats are a popular cat breed and for good reason. They are affectionate, playful, and known for their intelligence and independence. They’re also exceptionally friendly with people of all ages. These cats make great companions to families with children because they like to play; they can even learn tricks! If your family is looking for a new furry friend this year, consider adopting a Siberian kitten from a rescue organization or shelter near you.
HEIGHT | 9-11 inches at the shoulder |
WEIGHT | 8-17 pounds |
LIFE EXPECTANCY | 12-16 years |
COLOR | Solid, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and parti-color |
TRAITS | Affectionate and social, with a playful and curious personality; known for their thick, waterproof coat and fondness for climbing; may be more independent than some other cat breeds, but also enjoy human interaction and playtime |
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, there are many popular cat breeds to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and personality traits. It’s important to carefully consider which breed is the best fit for your lifestyle and personality. Researching and understanding the needs and habits of each breed can help ensure a happy and healthy relationship with your new feline companion.
In addition to considering the most popular cat breeds, it’s also important to visit local shelters and rescues in your search for a new pet. There are so many wonderful cats in need of a loving home, and adopting from a shelter not only gives a deserving cat a second chance but also helps to make room for more animals in need.
It’s also important to remember that cat ownership comes with responsibilities and costs, such as regular vet visits, feeding, and providing a safe and comfortable environment. But the joy and companionship a cat can bring to a household are immeasurable.
Thank you for reading our list of the top 15 popular cat breeds. We hope it has helped you in your search for the perfect feline friend. If you have a fellow cat lover in your life, consider sharing this article with them. And if you’re still on the fence about cat ownership, we hope it has given you some helpful information to consider as you make your decision. Happy cat hunting!
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