Dive into our guide to 15 popular cat breeds. Find your cuddle buddy, playful pal, or glamorous companion – meow about it!
Cats, those enigmatic and graceful creatures, have stealthily crept into the hearts and homes of American pet owners. With 45.3 million U.S. households embracing these whiskered wonders, it’s no wonder that cats hold a special place in our lives.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of all cats, regularly publishes a list of the most popular cat breeds. Starting from majestic Maine Coon with tufted ears and a thick coat or a sleek, hairless Sphynx, affectionate Ragdoll to the playful Abyssinian.
In this article, you’ll explore the 15 most popular cat breeds in the U.S.A. highlighting what makes each one unique and which feline friends are capturing the hearts of Americans this year.
1. Exotic Shorthair
For three years straight, the Exotic cat has become the top choice for registered cats in America! This dethrones the Persian breed, which held the number one spot for an impressive 31 years.
The Exotic, sometimes called the Exotic Shorthair, is a mix between Persian and American Shorthair cats. Breeders created them to look almost exactly like Persians, except for one key difference: their fur.
Unlike Persians, Exotics have short, thick fur that’s easy to care for. This makes them perfect for people who love the Persian personality but don’t have the time or patience for daily grooming.
Just like Persians, Exotics are known for being sweet, cuddly, and playful. They might even shower you with more affection and loyalty than other cat breeds, often following you around the house.
Height: 25.4 to 30.5 cm (10 – 12 inches).
Weight: Males 8 to 13 and Females 6 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 8 to 15 years.
Body Feature: Its coat shines in a variety of colors, like silver, bi-color, red tabby, and brown tabby.
2. Main coon
Calling all cat lovers who want a gentle giant! The Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, known for being both big and playful. They’re one of the largest domestic cat breeds, but don’t worry, they earn the nickname “gentle giants” for a reason.
These cats have a wild look with their shaggy fur. Full-grown male Maine Coons can be real whoppers, weighing up to 30 pounds, with females a bit lighter. It takes them a while to grow into themselves, reaching their full size around 3 to 5 years old.
Just like dogs, Maine Coons love spending time with their people. They’re energetic, smart, and easy to train. Don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon follows you around the house, greets you when you come home, or even plays fetch!
Height: 25.4 to 40.6 cm (10 – 16 inches).
Weight: Males 13 to 18 and Females 8 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years.
Body Feature: A rugged triple-layered coat with a luxuriously feathered tail and A double coat that boasts over 75 color combinations! Their eyes sparkle in shades of green, gold, or copper.
3. Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats are super chill and loving! Their name actually comes from how they go limp and relaxed when you pick them up. They’re one of the biggest cat breeds, but also one of the cuddliest. People even call them “puppy-cats” because they can be so friendly and playful.
Ragdolls are very gentle and get along well with everyone. They love spending time with their humans, following them around, napping together, or just flopping down on their laps. This breed is great with kids and other pets too. They can even be trained to do some tricks like dogs, such as fetching or rolling over.
Height: 38.1 to 66 cm (15 – 26 inches).
Weight: 10-20 pounds.
Lifespan: 15-25 years.
Body Feature: A silky long coat in various colors: seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream. These colors are darker on the “points” (face, legs, tail, ears) for a striking contrast.
4. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is like royalty in the cat world! It’s believed that Roman soldiers brought these cats to England over 2,000 years ago. Back then, they even mated with wildcat cousins living in England. Later on, people bred British Shorthairs with Persian cats, which gave them a slightly different look and a thicker coat of fur.
These popular cats are stars! You might have seen them on TV, in movies, or even in books. The famous Whiskas cat in the commercials? That’s a British Shorthair. And how about some famous fictional felines? The cat brought back to life in Stephen King’s “Pet Sematary ” (Winston Churchill) was one, “Puss in Boots’ ‘, a cunning and swashbuckling cat from fairy tales and the “Shrek’ ‘ movies. Also, Arlene from “Garfield: The Movie” and the mysterious Cheshire Cat from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” as well as “Hobbes”, the mischievous best friend (who appears as a tiger to Calvin but a stuffed animal to others) from the comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes.”
Height: 30.5 to 35.6 cm (12 to 14 inches).
Weight: Males 9 to 17 and Females 7 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 12 to 20 years.
Body Feature: A sophisticated blue-gray coat, also they come in every color and pattern.
5. Persian
Persian cats are like royalty in the cat world, known for their gentle personalities and stunning looks. With their sweet faces, round eyes, and luxurious fur, they’re no wonder they’ve been a favorite among cat lovers for centuries!
Talk about a long history! Pictures of cats that look like Persians can even be found in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, dating back to almost 4,000 years ago. Originally from Persia (which is now called Iran), these cats were named after their homeland. While their colors and body types have changed a bit over time, one thing has always stayed the same: their thick, beautiful fur. To keep their coat healthy and tangle-free, Persians need to be brushed at least once a day, and occasional baths are a good idea too.
Height: 25.4 to 38.1 cm (10 – 15 inches).
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 12 to 17 years.
Body Feature: A luxurious mane of fur in a rainbow of colors: solids (white, black, cream), tabby patterns, calico, bi-color, even silver, gold, shaded, and smoke!
6. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is like America’s favorite team captain: reliable, friendly, and always there for you! These cats came to America with the first settlers from Europe and have become a true family favorite. They’re consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most popular cat breeds.
American Shorthairs are known for their easy-going personality and smarts. They get along great with other pets and are gentle with kids, making them a perfect fit for busy families. Plus, their short fur is easy to care for, which is another win for busy households.
Height: 20.3 to 25.4 cm (8 – 10 inches).
Weight: Males 11 to 15 and Females 6 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years.
Body Feature: They come in a stunning number of colors, like white, black, and cream, or even cooler options like blue, brown, and tortoiseshell.
7. Scottish Fold
Scottish Fold cats stand out from the crowd with their adorable folded ears, making them look a bit like owls! But their looks aren’t the only thing that makes them special.
These kitties are known for being sweet and easygoing. They love spending time with people and other pets, and they often form a special bond with one particular family member. Scottish Folds are also known for their quiet voices and a unique way of “talking” with a variety of purrs and meows that you might not hear from other cat breeds.
(Important note: Breeding Scottish Folds can sometimes lead to health problems in their joints. If you’re interested in this breed, be sure to adopt from a reputable breeder who prioritizes healthy breeding practices.)
Height: 20.3 to 25.4 cm (8 – 10 inches).
Weight: Males 8.8 to 13.2 and Females 6 to 8.8 pounds.
Lifespan: 14 to 16 years.
Body Feature: Coat that comes in classic colors like brown, black, and white, with exciting patterns like tabby and tortoiseshell. Their eyes gleam in mesmerizing shades of green, blue-green, and gold.
8. Siamese
Siamese cats are like rockstars in the cat world! They’re easily recognizable with their cream-colored fur, pointy ears, and bright blue eyes. They even have darker brown or gray accents on their faces, paws, and ears, making them even more striking. While traditionally this was their only look, Siamese cats can now come in different colors and patterns too.
Get ready for a chatty companion! Siamese cats are known for being vocal and playful. They love attention and don’t like being left alone for long periods. Think of them as the social butterflies of the cat world. Plus, they’re super smart!
Siamese cats come all the way from Thailand! Back before 1939, the country was called Siam, which is how they got their name. They eventually traveled to Europe in the late 1800s and then to North America. Fun fact: President Rutherford B. Hayes even had a Siamese cat during his presidency!
Height: 20.3 to 25.4 cm (8 – 10 inches).
Weight: 4 to 13 pounds.
Lifespan: Up to 15 years (sometimes 20 years).
Body Feature: Coat color can be from classic solids and tabbies to vibrant tortoiseshell and torbie patterns. Even some with coats in seal point, chocolate point, blue point, and lilac point have captivating blue eyes.
9. Abyssinian
Nicknamed “Abys” for short, these Abyssinian cats are head-turners! They have a sleek and elegant look, almost like royalty, and are surprisingly easy to care for. This makes them a great choice for many cat lovers.
Full of life and expression, Abys have some unique features. Their heads are a bit triangular, their ears are kind of cupped, and their bodies are medium-length with well-developed muscles. They also have long, slim legs and a short, smooth coat that lies close to their bodies. The whole look reminds people of ancient Egyptian cats!
While they may not be cuddle bugs, Abysinians are loving and loyal companions. They usually get along well with kids and other pets too. Their curious and playful nature makes them love exploring their surroundings. They’re also very people-oriented and enjoy being part of the action in your home.
Height: 30.5 to 40.6 cm (12 – 16 inches).
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 9 to 15 years (or more).
Body Feature: Their ticked coats come in a variety of stunning shades, like cinnamon, chocolate, and blue, with some even boasting fawn, lilac, or silver!
10. Bengal
The Bengal cat is a real looker! Their most striking feature is their marbled coat, which comes in all sorts of patterns and colors. But don’t be fooled by their wild looks, their fur is actually incredibly soft. They also have a surprisingly muscular build.
Bengals are like playful kittens all grown up! They’re known for their active and energetic personalities, so be prepared for a cat who loves to have fun. To keep them happy, they need owners who can provide them with plenty of stimulation and entertainment.
Here’s the interesting part: Bengals are a bit of a mix! They’re actually considered a hybrid breed because they were created by breeding domestic cats with Asian Leopard Cats. Breeders like Jean S. Mill wanted a cat that had the stunning markings of a leopard, but with a friendly and affectionate personality. The Cat Fanciers’ Association even says that Bengals are the only domestic breed with rosettes that look like real leopards, jaguars, and ocelots!
Height: 33.0 – 40.6 cm (13 – 16 inches).
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds.
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years.
Body Feature: Coats with shorthair, bold spots or marbled patterns in black, chocolate, or even gray/silver. And the color of their eyes gleaming in green or gold.
11. Domestic Shorthair & Longhair
Meet the original mutts of the cat world: Domestic Shorthairs and Domestic Longhairs! Unlike fancy purebreds, these kitties come in all sorts of looks because of their mixed heritage. You might find a short haired Domestic with a round face and a sleek black coat, while another might be a longhaired tabby with emerald green eyes. No matter what they look like, they all share some common traits: they’re typically medium-sized and have a reputation as excellent mousers.
Domestic cats have a long history! It’s believed they were first domesticated in Egypt around 2000 BC. Some, like the Domestic Shorthair, likely hitched rides on ships (maybe even the Mayflower!) and ended up in North America. These hard working cats have been a favorite for centuries, with lifespans averaging 12-14 years, though some live much longer.
Domestic Longhairs are similar, but with a luxurious twist! Just like their shorthaired counterparts, they have unknown ancestry and likely arrived in North America from Europe by ship. Their fur can be any color and can grow several inches long. They often have fluffy ear tufts and fur on their paws. Regular brushing helps keep their long locks looking their best.
The exact origin of their long fur is a bit of a mystery. Some believe humans in colder climates like Russia, Iran, and Turkey might have specifically bred for this trait. After all, a fluffy coat provides extra warmth! Regardless of their history, Domestic Longhairs are known for being skilled hunters, making them a great choice for people looking for a natural rodent control solution.
Height: For shorthair 20.3 to 25.4 cm (8 – 10 inches), and for longhair upto 45.7 cm (18 inches).
Weight: Shorthair 6 to 16 pounds and Longhair 8 to 15 pounds.
Lifespan: Shorthair 12 to 14 years, and Longhair 18 to 20 years.
Body Feature: Coat hair can be both short and long, comes with many color options, including white, black, cream, blue, brown, chinchilla, tortoiseshell, cameo, and more.
12. Siberian
Siberian cats are like living teddy bears! In Russia, they’re considered a national treasure according to the CFA, and they’ve been gracing homes in the U.S. since 1990. These strong and alert cats have a super fluffy triple coat that comes in all sorts of colors and patterns. Plus, keeping their fur tangle-free is a breeze – minimal brushing is all it takes!
Siberians are cuddle monsters at heart! They love playtime with their humans and toys. They’re also known for being affectionate and playful. Here’s a bonus for allergy sufferers: although not scientifically proven, Siberians are considered hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for cat lovers with allergies. Listen closely, and you might hear them quietly meow, chirp, and purr when they’re happy!
Height: 22.9 to 27.9 cm (9 – 11 inches).
Weight: 8 to 17 pounds.
Lifespan: 10 to 18 years.
Body Feature: Coat is triple layer, medium to long and comes with all types of color and pattern.
13. Russian Blue
Russian Blue cats are like the royalty of the cat world, with their sleek and sophisticated look! Their fur is a stunning blue-gray color, sometimes with faint stripes, and incredibly soft thanks to their double coat. They have a slender build that’s balanced by a luxurious, plush coat. And look for those mesmerizing yellow-green eyes and a slight upturn at the corners of their mouth, almost like a permanent smile.
Russian Blues are more on the mellow side. They love a good cuddle and a comfy spot to nap, but might be a little shy around large crowds. While the exact origins are a bit fuzzy, some believe they might be descendants of cats kept by the Russian Czars. These beauties eventually made their way to North America in the early 1900s and have steadily grown in popularity, now ranking as the seventh most popular cat breed in the US!
Height: 22.9 to 27.9 cm (9 – 11 inches).
Weight: 7 and 15 pounds (males can weigh more).
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years.
Body Feature: Coat length is short and color are blue and silver.
14. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a one-of-a-kind cat with a surprising origin story! Back in 1960, in England’s Devonshire region, a chance encounter led to the birth of this breed. Their unique features have earned them nicknames like “pixie cat,” “alien cat,” and even “bat cat.” Some people even say they act more like dogs than cats!
Don’t let their looks fool you, though. Devon Rexes are total charmers! They’ve captured the hearts of cat lovers around the world with their lovable personalities. Get ready for a quirky and playful companion who might keep you on your toes with their mischievous antics.
Height: 25.4 to 30.5 cm (10 – 12 inches).
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds.
Lifespan: 9 to 15 years.
Body Feature: Fine, thin hair and can be oily at the roots. It comes in a variety of colors and textures, with some being curly and others possessing a soft, suede-like feel.
15. Sphynx
Meet the Sphynx, a one-of-a-kind cat with a hairless, wrinkly body, big eyes, and prominent cheekbones! Unlike most cats, they don’t have fur, which is actually a rare genetic surprise. The first Sphynx was born in Canada in 1966.
Don’t let their unusual look fool you, Sphynxes are healthy and full of personality! Breeders carefully mixed Sphynxes with regular shorthair cats to create this special breed. Their unique appearance has made them quite popular, and they’re now one of the most sought-after cat breeds in the US.
Sphynxes are true cuddle monsters! They’re energetic, playful goofballs who love attention. Since they don’t have fur, they can’t be outdoor cats. Their skin needs protection from the sun and cold, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy supervised playtime outside.
Height: 20.3 to 25.4 cm (8 – 10 inches)
Weight: 6 to 12 pounds.
Lifespan: 8 to 14 years.
Body Feature: A hairless breed available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including white, black, red, chocolate, lavender, tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, pointed, and mink.
Conclusion
From playful kittens to regal companions, there’s a perfect cat breed out there for everyone! Each breed has its own unique personality, appearance, and needs. Some cats crave constant attention, while others prefer a more independent lifestyle. No matter which breed you choose, remember that happy cats are well-cared-for cats. Make sure you can provide a loving home that meets their needs, whether it’s a playful environment full of toys or a calm space for relaxation. With a little research and a lot of love, you and your feline friend can be the purrfect match!