Between 2021 and 2022, about 70 percent of households owned a pet in the United States, and 45.3 million of these households owned a cat1. There are general assumptions made about a person’s personality if they’re a cat or a dog person, but have you ever thought about what your choice of cat says about you?
Bringing a pet into your family is a big decision; they’re hard work and can be expensive, so a responsible owner will take the time to think about their decision. The cat’s temperament, breed, and color can be a factor in your decision-making process. So, let’s take a look at what your choice says about you!
Top 16 Cat Breeds & Their Personalities
1. Maine Coon Cats
These miniature lions can be bigger than some dogs. They’re athletic, powerful, and muscular, which means they’re not for the faint of heart. You might be big on tradition because these are one of the oldest breeds in America! Owners of this breed are adventurers since Maine Coons are outdoor cats that need exploration and space to roam.
2. Persians
Persians are known as the couch potatoes of the feline world, so if you have one in your life, chances are you’re a homebody. Persians are soft and gentle, so your idea of the perfect day is probably a good book followed by a nap on the couch on a Sunday afternoon.
3. Scottish Folds
If you have a special Scottish Fold in your life, you’re either a diehard Taylor Swift fan or love to make an entrance—or both! Scottish Folds defy the law of physics, thanks to an absence of cartilage, and can move almost like they’re boneless. You’re a bit of a social butterfly; whether it’s spending time with your friends or family, loved ones are important. The Scottish Fold doesn’t like to be alone and enjoys time with its favorite human or the company of another pet.
4. Sphynx Cat
You’re an extrovert if you’re anything like your Sphynx cat. These are intelligent, energetic, curious cats that like to be involved in everything. Your best friends will argue with other people who say your cat looks like an uncooked roast chicken—cats don’t have to be fluffy to be adorable, and your Sphynx proves that. While they enjoy hunting and playtime, they love the warmth of a cuddle with their favorite human, so you also make time for cuddles on the sofa.
5. Siamese Cats
Siamese cats are beautiful and excellent communicators, so you’re probably a bit of both. Unlike many breeds, Siamese constantly meows, which means you prefer your pets to be talkative. Like many intelligent cats, the Siamese cat likes being part of the family’s activities and expects its owners to be as affectionate with them as they are back.
6. Russian Blues
A Russian Blue owner respects their cat’s independent streak but is also available when cuddles are needed. You’re both respectful of one another’s space and like a quiet, clean home where you can spend time together recharging your batteries after a long week of being out and about.
7. Bengal Cats
If you have a Bengal in your life, you like to splurge and treat yourself—these cats can cost up to $10,000! You like the finer things in life, and you’ve never cared about fitting in. You won’t be found wasting time sitting around, and you’re both far too busy and always on the move.
8. Manx Cats
If you’re a little wild, you probably own a Manx cat. You’re one of a kind and love an adventure, and your Manx is right there by your side. The ancestors of these cats were cared for by Vikings before settling in Norway, so they’re prepared for anything life has to throw at them. They’re protective of their families, so you’ve got an excellent watch cat living with you!
9. Lykoi
The Lykoi is a new breed known as the Werewolf Cat, and as an owner, you appreciate the wilder look aspects of life. Lykoi cats are not dainty felines and look like the perfect animals to star in horror films. However, their rough appearance hides a sweetheart, and you’re probably fond of your cat’s gentle nature and habit of falling asleep in your lap.
10. Japanese Bobtail
If you’re full of energy, the Japanese Bobtail is the perfect pal. You like to be spoiled but also don’t shy away from hard work. The Japanese Bobtail started off as royalty and then was put to work to chase mice that threatened the silk trees that made up Japan’s primary industry. They’re now back in their rightful place, as the prince or princess of their homes, but they still have plenty of energy for playtime.
11. Abyssinian
The Abyssinian cat is active, curious, gets into everything, and knows everything about everyone because they’re always around you. You and your cat don’t enjoy sitting still and prefer staying active throughout the day. And you’ll have to be pretty clever because this cat is intelligent, and you’ll need to keep up with them.
12. Tabby
The Tabby isn’t technically a breed; instead, it’s a coat color that is distinguishable from the “M” marked on their foreheads. But tabby cats are unique, and their owners are all in agreement. If you’re feisty and witty, you probably have a tabby cat in your life. You’re outgoing and love adventure, but equally, you love spending time with your favorite cat watching a good show on TV.
13. Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats are agreeable, relaxed, and affectionate, so you’re a homebody that enjoys a quiet home. You like gardening in a sunny spot, reading a book, and relaxing with your Ragdoll right beside you. You’re not fond of aloof pets and love how your lazy cat falls limp when you pick it up.
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14. Black Cat
Again, black is a coat color instead of a breed, but black cats seem to have personalities of their own, regardless of their species. You ooze confidence, and you like being the center of attention. People have mixed feelings about you, but you thrive off this controversy and don’t care what people think about you. You know you’re great, and that’s what’s most important!
15. American Shorthair
You’re well-liked, just like your American Shorthair, which is one of the most common felines in the country. You have lots of friends and get on with most people. You’re family-centered but also fiercely independent.
16. Calico/Tortoiseshell Cats
These mixed-breed shorthairs tend to have adventurous owners who appreciate complex color schemes like the ones adorning their cats. You appreciate the beauty in the world and want to surround yourself with it. Most of these cats are female, so you probably surround yourself with strong women. You’re independent and a bit of a free spirit.
Final Thoughts
Our pets become part of the family and our best friends, so it makes sense that we would pick a feline with whom we have something in common. If you hate being outdoors, you’ll probably lean more toward the cuddly couch potato cats, like the Ragdolls, instead of the adventurous types. If you’re always on the move, you probably prefer high-energy felines like Bengal cats. When your cat’s personality fits your lifestyle, you and your pet are happier and share a closer bond.
Featured Image Credit: Svetlana Rey, Shutterstock
