1. Home
  2. Cat
  3. General

8 Most Affectionate Cat Breeds

Chewy Editorial
By Chewy Editorial
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025

Photo by Chewy

While most cats are more than happy to be a bit — what should we call it — aloof, there are some breeds out there that actually love nothing more than a good snuggle with their owners. If your own favorite breed isn’t spotlighted, no hissing, please — this is by no means a conclusive study. It’s simply a roundup of breeds that “tend to go out of their way to snuggle right into your heart,” says Cheryl Hogan of The International Cat Association (TICA).

Hogan, a longtime breeder and judge of pedigreed cats, reminds us that “any cat of any breed can have that special relationship with their special person or family — they’re just as diverse in personality as we humans are.”

Having said that, the following breeds tend to top the charts when it comes to their affection connection:

Scottish Fold/Scottish Straight

Scottish Fold/Scottish Straight

Snuggly as a stuffed toy, this sweet cat (which comes in either a folded or upright ears variety) is so mellow, “many will even let kids dress them up in doll clothes,” says Hogan. Furthermore, they want to be with their special person every minute — you can’t walk from one room to another without them following at your heels. Quiet and easy-going with a sweet facial expression, the Scottish Fold is a great family pet because “they just adore their families,” says Hogan. This is a cat that won’t pester to be ‘in your face,’ but just wishes to be near you.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Ragdoll

Ragdoll

The Ragdoll (so named because they tend to go limp in your arms, just like the soft ragdoll toys of our grandparents’ generation) is a breed “that tends to be quiet and laid back, but is very loving,” says Hogan. Deceptively muscular, yet soft at the same time, Ragdolls are the ideal indoor cat because they’re so happy and interested in being part of the household. Much like Scottish Folds, a Ragdoll will even tolerate being dressed up like a doll, because they love kids and adults alike. The Ragdoll’s tiny meow is more of a chirp, and those lucky enough to live with one will hear that merry sound quite a bit, as this sweet kitty tells everyone how happy he is to be part of the action.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Tonkinese

Tonkinese

Exceptionally social, the Tonkinese needs a home “where there’s a great affection between the cat and his or her person,” says Hogan, who describes the Tonkinese as an intelligent cat that thrives on attention — and is quick to return it as well. According to Hogan, Tonkinese are a gregarious breed, equally loving to all members of the family. “These are vocal cats that will hold engaging and meaningful conversations with you,” she adds. For a Tonkinese, nothing is more important in life than being close to their person, and they’ll spend hours contentedly cuddling and purring.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Birman

Birman

Birman

Just call this breed the mood ring of cats. If you’re happy, they’re there, ready to play, but if you’ve had a bad day, the Birman is on hand to quietly comfort and console you, says Hogan. “I’ve never met such a people-oriented cat in my life,” she added. Intuitive, freely affectionate and loving, the Birman is a shoulder to cry on, but they will also entertain you like a kitten, energetically playing their favorite kitty games for hours. Sensitive and loyal, the Birman is the feline version of that theme song from the Friends television series: I’ll be there for you!

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Oriental Shorthair/Siamese

Oriental Shorthair/Siamese

Differing only in coloration — the Siamese has ‘colorpoints’ that contrast with his creamy body, the Oriental comes in every hue and pattern — both are lively and outspoken, but equally devoted and loving. “The love you can see in their eyes toward their owners is incomparable,” says Hogan. Famously vocal — let us all remember the singing Siamese from Lady and the Tramp — they’re also more active than many other breeds, playing during the day and becoming what Hogan calls “the most passionate bed partners at night.”

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Kurilian Bobtail

Kurilian Bobtail

From Russia with love, the sturdy Kurilian Bobtail, a so-called ‘natural breed,’ has a distinctive pompom tail that can’t be missed. His looks may be wild, but he possesses a gentle, loving temperament. “This is a newer breed to the U.S., but it’s one that everyone needs to discover,” says Hogan, adding that Kurilians are highly intelligent and very social. This is a breed that adores being petted and cherished. Hogan calls them ‘charismatic’ in the way they interact with people — the congenial Kurilian will instantly bond with you and your resident cat and/or dog, becoming a devoted friend for years to come.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Burmese/Bombay

Burmese/Bombay

Virtually the same cat in different shades, the sable-brown Bumese and the jet-black Bombay are sweet-natured kitties who “will make themselves at home in any available lap,” says Hogan. Social cats who thrive on attention from their family members, the Burmese and Bombay are equally fond of infants, elderly, and everyone in between. Hogan says that TICA judge and longtime Bombay breeder Wendy Klamm refers to these cats as “the goodwill ambassadors of the cat fancy, never having met a stranger. They make friends with everyone.” One thing’s certain — with a Burmese or Bombay in the house, no one will ever feel alone.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Sphynx

Sphynx

Sphynx

The hairless, unique-looking Sphynx is an outgoing, friendly companion who is eager to be close to his humans. “Because of their lack of coat, they’re very warm and soft to the touch, and I find a Sphynx feels like a purring suede hot water bottle,” says Hogan. The Sphynxs’ own need for warmth means they love to snuggle, but not strictly for body heat. “Sphynx cats are very loyal and adoring of their people,” Hogan says. Intelligent and playful, the Sphynx enjoys buddying up to other pets and children, and can easily entertain himself, though he’d much prefer to have you in the game with him.

Ken Flick via Helmi Flick Cat Photography

Kathy Blumenstock is owned by cats, loved by dogs, writes about both, and still longs for a horse.

Attributions


Chewy Editorial

Chewy Editorial

Related articles
  • Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat
    Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat

  • What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?
    What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?

  • Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 
    Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 

  • 12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
    12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      Dog DealsNew Dog SuppliesPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      $30 eGift card with $100 order of pet faves like Solid Gold. Code: HAVEFUN. Exclusions apply.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Help support their urinary health with Royal Canin Urinary nutrition. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals