Cat breeds
Cat breeds A–Z 🐱
Honest, plain-English guides to 20 popular cat breeds — how affectionate, chatty, active and independent they tend to be, what their coats need, and how they fit with families. A starting point, not the last word: every cat is an individual.
All cat breeds
AbyssinianA lithe, inquisitive and athletic breed that loves to climb, explore and be busy — often called the “clown” of the cat world.BengalA striking, wild-looking and highly active breed that needs lots of play, climbing and mental stimulation.BirmanA gentle, sociable semi-longhair with striking blue eyes — affectionate and well-mannered without being demanding.British ShorthairAn easygoing, dignified and undemanding breed with a plush coat — affectionate on its own terms rather than a clingy lap cat.BurmeseA warm, sociable and people-loving breed with a glossy coat — playful into adulthood and devoted to family life.Cornish RexA slender, curly-coated and acrobatic breed — playful, warm and people-loving well into old age.Devon RexA playful, pixie-faced breed with a soft wavy coat — mischievous, clingy and often described as “monkey-like”.Domestic Shorthair (Moggy)The much-loved non-pedigree “moggy” — every one is an individual, generally hardy and healthy, and the most rescue-friendly choice of all.Exotic ShorthairOften called the “lazy person’s Persian” — the same calm, sweet nature in an easier-to-groom short coat.Maine CoonOne of the largest domestic breeds — a gentle giant that is sociable, intelligent and known for soft chirps and trills.Norwegian Forest CatA large, sturdy semi-longhair built for cold climates — friendly and even-tempered but happily independent.Oriental ShorthairA slender, elegant relative of the Siamese — intelligent, intensely bonded to its people and very talkative.PersianA calm, quiet, luxurious longhair that prefers a peaceful home and a comfortable spot to lounge.RagamuffinA large, huggable, plush-coated cat closely related to the Ragdoll — docile, cuddly and devoted to people.RagdollA large, docile, semi-longhaired cat famous for going limp when picked up — devoted, gentle and very people-oriented.Russian BlueA reserved, elegant breed with a dense blue-grey coat — devoted to its own people but quiet and a little shy with strangers.Scottish FoldA sweet, mellow breed known for its folded ears — calm, affectionate and happy to potter quietly around the home.SiameseA sleek, intelligent and intensely people-focused breed that is famously talkative and forms strong bonds.SphynxA hairless, warm-skinned and famously affectionate breed that is sociable, attention-seeking and full of character.TonkineseA Siamese–Burmese cross combining the best of both — sociable, playful, affectionate and chatty.
Not sure which cat suits you?
Tell us about your home and lifestyle and we’ll suggest breeds that fit.
Every cat is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet cats in person, and consider adopting from a rescue.