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It’s exciting to add a cat to your family, but choosing the right breed can make all the difference. So, how do you know what the easiest cat breeds to raise are? While every cat has its own unique personality, certain felines are known for being especially friendly, gentle and adaptable, making them a great fit for first-time cat owners. To help you narrow down your choices, we gathered 7 of the easiest cat breeds to care for, according to experts.
After all, many beginner-friendly cats are affectionate without being clingy and have relaxed temperaments that make them easy to live with. Some also have lower grooming or exercise needs, which can be helpful for cat lovers still learning the basics of feline care.
The good news is, these types of cats range from laid-back gentle giants to low-maintenance cats and sweet lap pets that are known for their even-tempered personalities and manageable care needs. However, it’s crucial to remember that even the easiest cats to own still need love, attention and enrichment to thrive. So if you’re thinking of bringing home your first kitty, experts say these seven breeds can make wonderful companions, offering the kind of special bond that makes welcoming a cat into your life so rewarding.
Related: 7 Best Cat Breeds for Seniors That Are Affectionate, Calm and Easy to Care For
7 Easiest Cat Breeds
While certain cat breeds tend to offer more predictable temperaments, including the friendly, chill traits seen in the breeds below, it's important to remember that every cat is an individual. “If you're looking for a specific personality type, it's a good idea to meet the kitten or cat beforehand to ensure they're a good match for your lifestyle,” says Dr. Annette Louviere, scientific communications veterinarian at Royal Canin. With that in mind, here are seven cat breeds experts say are among the easiest to look after.
Ragdoll
If you’re looking for a cat that loves people and likes curling up beside you even more, the Ragdoll is hard to beat. This large, beautiful breed gets its name from its famously relaxed body, often going limp when picked up. “They are often cited as the world's most popular cat breed because they make such easy pets,” Merkatoris adds.
Their calm, affectionate personality makes them especially appealing for beginner pet parents looking for a companion that enjoys spending time with family members. "They generally have moderately low energy levels and enjoy snuggling,” says JustAnswer veterinarian Dr. Katie Merkatoris. On top of those qualties, Ragdolls are also typically patient with children and welcoming towards visitors, which makes them a natural fit for busy homes.
Their long, silky coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles, but their laidback temperament often makes grooming sessions easier than owners might expect, proving that even fluffy cats can require less upkeep than you might think.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Affectionate, relaxed, happy
- Weight: 12-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 15+ years
American Shorthair
Another easy cat breed to care for? The American Shorthair! It was originally brought to the U.S. from Great Britain in the 1600s to help control rodents and today, they’re one of the country’s most beloved cat breeds.
“These cats still exhibit hunting prowers, and are agile and playful, but are also known for being gentle and loving,” Merkatoris says.
American Shorthairs tend to form close bonds with their families while remaining independent enough to entertain themselves. Their even temperament makes them a great option for homes with kids or other pets as well.
Their short coat is also a bonus for new cat parents who are looking for a low-maintenance cat. Weekly brushing is usually all it takes to remove loose hair and keep their coat looking healthy, making them one of the easiest cats to take care of, especially if you've never had one before.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Gentle, easy-going
- Weight: Varies
- Lifespan: Unspecified
Maine Coon
Known as the gentle giants of the cat world, Maine Coons combine their impressive size with an exceptionally sweet personality. Despite their large build, they’re famously patient, friendly and eager to be part of family life. Because of this, these are cats that are easy to care for, according to experts.
“They are known for being loving, sweet and very social, as well as getting along with both humans and other pets,” Merkatoris explains.
These indoor cats love to follow their owners around and are not very demanding. They enjoy being laidback most of the time and are happy relaxing with their favorite humans. Though, they are intelligent enough to learn tricks or play games (such as fetch) as well.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Gentle, friendly, affectionate
- Weight: 12-22 pounds
- Lifespan: 12.5+ years
British Shorthair
Not sure which cat breed is right for you? The British Shorthair is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a calm, easy-to-care-for furbaby.
“I love these cats due to their stocky bodies, broad faces and low-maintenance lifestyles,” says Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian at Schwarzman Animal Medical Center.
These beginner-friendly cat breeds are known for being quiet, patient and laidback. They generally enjoy spending time with their humans without constantly demanding attention, making them a good fit for people with busy schedules. In fact, they’re often most content simply lounging around the house.
“These calm cat breeds make great companions for other pets in the home and typically love kids,” Fox adds.
And while most cats requre a lot of grooming, a British Shorthair's dense coat only requires weekly brushing.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Gentle, easy-going
- Weight: 8-16 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-20 years
Related: The Simplest Thing You Can Do to Help Your Cat Live Longer, According to Researchers
Siberian
Originally developed to withstand harsh climates, Siberian cats have an adaptable nature that helps them thrive in a variety of home environments.
“Siberians are cats with east temperaments and are known for being affectonate,” says Louviere. “In fact, they prefer company and are amazing snuggle buddies.”
According to veterinarians, another reason they win over people's hearts is because they are super friendly, gentle and cats that are good with families as they get along well with children and other pets.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Playful, smart
- Weight: 6-12+ pounds
- Lifespan: 11–18 years
Domestic Shorthair
If you’re adopting your first cat, don’t overlook the Domestic Shorthair. Commonly found in shelters and rescues, these mixed-breed cats come in a wide variety of colors, patterns and personalities, but many are known for being adaptable, affectionate companions
“These beginner-friendly cat breeds have hybrid vigor and are less likely to have breed-related disease,” Fox says. “They’re often socialized early, have street smarts and are adaptable. Overall, they’re some of the most family-friendly cats, making them perfect for new cat owners.”
Their easygoing nature also allows many Domestic Shorthairs to adjust well to new homes and routines. Most have short coats that require only occasional brushing, and their relaxed personalities mean they’re often comfortable in a variety of living situations that range from quiet apartments to busy homes.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Friendly, adaptable, intelligent
- Weight: 6–16 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats may look like wild woodland cats, but these fluffy giants are surprisingly easygoing companions. Their patient, adaptable nature helps them adjust to new homes, busy families, and changing routines with ease.
“This easygoing breed is adaptable and tolerant with children, making them an easy fit for large families,” Merkatoris explains. “Unlike some cats, they form strong attachments to their people.”
While they enjoy interactive play and climbing, they’re equally happy relaxing nearby and offering friendship without constantly demanding attention. How perfect is that?
Breed Stats
- Personality: Intelligent, sweet
- Weight: 8-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 13+ years
Sources:
Dr. Katie Merkatoris, JustAnswer veterinarian
Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian at Schwarzman Animal Medical Center
Dr. Annette Louviere, scientific communications veterinarian at Royal Canin
