19 Cutest Cat Breeds You’ll Want to Adopt

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Devon Rex

Big ears, big eyes and curls to boot? It’s no wonder many cat lovers find Devon Rex cats to be out-of-this-world cute. “Their little heads look like aliens,” Keiger says.

Developed in Devon, England, in the 1960s, the breed is often referred to as the pixies of the cat world because of their unique elfin look. Their coat is soft and wavy—”you just want to run your fingers through it,” Keiger says—and their wide-set cheekbones and oversized ears give them a mischievous expression.

But it’s their personalities that really wow. They’re smart, adorably silly and always looking to get into something. (Be prepared to guard your knickknacks and dinner plates!)

Devon Rex cats get along well with other pets and with young children (they’ll even play dress-up!), but if you get one, just know that they need lots of attention. “They do not do well alone,” Keiger says. “They love their owners, and they want to be with them.”

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Havana Brown

These chocolate-colored charmers are known for their glossy brown coats, brilliant green eyes and a very distinct rounded muzzle that some have likened to a corncob. That unique facial structure has led some to call Havana Browns, aka Brownies, the “monkeys of the cat fancy,” but others think it’s exactly what makes them one of the cutest cat breeds.

“They have a very whimsical face,” Keiger says. “They look sweet and a little goofy, and that’s really how their personality is too.”

A hybrid breed, the Havana Brown cat was developed by British breeders who crossed the Siamese with black domestic shorthairs to create a solid brown cat. Brownies are smart and curious. They’re known to use their front paws like hands to get your attention, and they famously get along well with dogs and other pets. While Brownies are a relatively rare cat breed, those who know them can’t get enough of them.

“They love people,” Keiger says. “And they expect you to love them back.”

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Ragdoll

These long-haired stunners can’t help stealing the spotlight: They’re just that gorgeous. (Remember that beautiful bundle of fur draped over Taylor Swift’s shoulders on the cover of Time? Ragdoll.)

Named for the way many of these cats go limp in your arms when cuddled, the Ragdoll comes in a variety of pointed patterns—that is, they have darker colored “points” on their face, ears, paws and tail set against a lighter body color. And with the pointed coat comes those vivid blue eyes. “It’s another reason they’re strikingly beautiful,” Keiger says.

One of the biggest breeds of the cat world, Ragdolls are as affectionate as they are cute. They love nothing more than draping themselves across your lap as you watch TV, or snuggling with you under the covers. “They enjoy being with people,” Keiger says. “They’re very mellow and laid-back.”

They also get along well with children and other pets, and they don’t demand a lot of interactive play or grooming. (Just make sure to run a comb through those flowing locks once or twice a week to keep them mat-free.)

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Abyssinian

How can you not love a cat whose nickname is the “Aby-silly-an”? Abys (pronounced “Abbies”) are confident, outgoing and not afraid to make clowns of themselves to get your attention. “If Abys had opposable thumbs we would be in trouble,” Keiger says. “On the other hand, if they had opposable thumbs they could help you with any project you had because they’re so smart.”

Although the Abyssinian resembles cats pictured in ancient Egyptian art, more recent genetic research has established that the breed originated in Southeast Asia. They got their name because the first Abys to appear at a cat show, in England in 1871, had been imported from the region once known as Abyssinia (now Ethiopia).

But whatever their history, Abys are legendarily cute. With their sleek, athletic physique, expressive almond-shaped eyes and warm, ticked coat, they look a little like a wild cat—and often act like one too. They love running and hunting games, and they’re incredibly agile and curious. No cat toys in the house? No problem—they’ll make their own! Be sure to keep breakables out of an Aby’s reach.

The breed is great with dogs and children and will even enjoy being walked with a harness. Just make sure to choose a reputable breeder if you want an Aby: The breed is prone to a couple of genetic health conditions, so you’ll want to make sure all screening is done.

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American Bobtail

You may hear “bobtail” and think wildcat, but this adorable breed is 100% domestic—and 110% cute.

The American Bobtail’s hallmark is its shortened tail, which comes naturally to the breed. “It reminds me of those peplum dresses that were popular for bridesmaids,” Keiger says. “You know, [with] that little bit of floof on the back.”

The mutation is traced back to a brown tabby bob-tailed stray named Yodie, which was found by an Iowa family while on vacation in Arizona in the 1960s. They bred him with their non-pedigreed Siamese and came up with an entire litter of short-tailed kittens, indicating a dominant bobtail gene in the feral cat population—and sparking a new breed.

American Bobtails also have a brow ridge that is slightly larger than most cats, Keiger says. “And it gives them what we refer to as a hunting gaze. You know those photos of wild cats looking off into the distance for prey? Bobtails have that same look.”

Fortunately, these cuties really only want to hunt laps and playtime. They are loving and affectionate house cats, and they get along well with kids and other pets.

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Chartreaux

The Chartreaux is called the smiling cat of France for a reason: Their muzzles are padded in just the right way to make them look like they have a perpetual smile on their face. Bring one home, and this cute feline will have you smiling too!

The Chartreaux dates back to the 16th century and was reportedly named after the Gran Chartreuse monastery in eastern France. Some joke that the breed must have taken a vow of silence—along with the monks there—because they have tiny voices that they rarely use.

“They’re very quiet,” Keiger says. “They can be a bit shy, but they are very sweet and they like their people.”

Chartreaux come only in gray—”blue” in cat fancy lingo—and have dazzling round copper-colored eyes. Their coat has a unique thick and woolly texture, so be prepared for regular combing sessions to prevent knots and mats.

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Khao Manee

This sparkling white cutie is known as a good luck charm in its native Thailand—its name means “White Gem” in Thai—and those who’ve had the pleasure of cuddling a Khao Manee feel fortunate indeed.

“They’re absolutely striking,” Keiger says. “Their eyes are like jewels.”

Khao Manees’ eyes come in a variety of rich colors, from blue to green to copper to yellow. The most prized cats are those with oddly matched eyes (say, one blue, one yellow), since it adds to their mystical appearance. “They are a treasure in Thailand,” Keiger says. “Just a captivating breed.”

While Khao Manees are still relatively rare in the U.S., their numbers are increasing. And they’re known for being extremely intelligent, friendly and social, making them good family pets. “They like people,” Keiger says. “And they like to make their feelings known.”

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American Curl

With distinctive ears that curl out and back, American Curl cats always look a little surprised to see you. But make no mistake: These cuties are thrilled by your presence. “They’ve very sweet and people-oriented,” Keiger says. “And they love to play.”

The American Curl breed has only been around since the 1980s, but the cats quickly developed a reputation for being curious and affectionate companions—with a touch of mischief. They want to be with you at all times, and they’ll make their feelings known if you happen to disagree.

The cats come in a wide range of colors, and in long- and short-haired varieties. Interestingly, they’re all born with straight ears. The curl, which developed out of a spontaneous mutation, starts to develop in three to five days and becomes set at about four months. The final curl can be subtle or dramatic, with show-quality American Curls having ears that arc back as much as 180 degrees.

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American Shorthair

These all-American felines come by their good looks honestly: They were working cats.

“These are the cats that came over with the early American settlers,” Keiger says. “They are large cats with big paws and muzzles, because their job was to keep the barns clear from vermin. They weren’t sitting around waiting for treat-treat time.”

Of course, modern-day American Shorthairs tend to leave the hard labor to their human caretakers, but they’ve maintained a good-natured ruggedness that makes them excellent family pets. “They’re smart, they’re easily trained and they get along well with kids and dogs,” Keiger says.

American Shorthairs come in a range of colors, with silver and brown classic tabbies being among the most popular. They’re also low-maintenance loungers. American Shorthairs don’t need any special grooming and have no particular health concerns. And rest assured that if any wild vermin dares to sneak into your home, these guys have it covered.

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Burmilla

This silver-tipped stunner is a relatively new breed that doubled down on cute. It’s a hybrid of the elegant Chinchilla Persian (think: the Fancy Feast cat) and the charming European Burmese. “It got its shaded silver coat and vivid green eyes from the Persian, and a little bit of mischief from the European Burmese,” Keiger says.

Burmillas come in both long- and short-haired varieties, but all have that signature silky, sparkling coat—pale at the roots and tipped with color for a shimmering effect.

Burmillas have only been around since the 1980s, but they’ve already established themselves as gentle and affectionate family pets. Sweet-natured and smart, they get along well with children and other animals. They love toys and love to play, but can be equally content just lounging on the couch.

“Longhaired or shorthaired, they’re absolutely beautiful,” Keiger says. “I would have one in a heartbeat.”

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British Shorthair

These Brits are so cute they’re a classic. They inspired the Cheshire Cat in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland and played Professor McGonagall’s feline alter-ego in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

Big and sturdy in size, British Shorthairs are known for their big round eyes and plush, teddy-bear-like coats. “The British Shorthair has that coat that is absolutely amazing,” Keiger says. “It’s the densest coat of any of our breeds, 300 hairs per square inch.”

They’re easygoing and affectionate pets, which makes them a great pick for families. “The British Shorthair is very intelligent and easily trained,” Keiger says. They also tend to be hardy cats with few health issues—though you’ll need to keep an eye on their pudge if they get too many treats.

And while British Shorthairs come in a variety of colors, gray is the choice for traditionalists. “They are so popular they are known as British Blues,” Keiger says.

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Maine Coon

Maine Coons are cuteness on steroids. Though they are the largest of the pedigreed cat breeds—a male Maine Coon easily tops 18 pounds—these adorable furballs are forever kittens at heart.

Nicknamed the gentle giants of the cat world, Maine Coons were the most popular CFA breed in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. With their thick flowing coats, plumed tails and big tufted paws, they project a majestic stature, but they don’t take themselves too seriously. “They’re a big robust cat, but they’re also really sweet,” says Keiger. “They’ll follow you around like a dog.”

Maine Coon cats love attention, and will happily play fetch or even walk on a leash. Even more endearing: Their intimidating size is offset by the most adorable of kitten voices. “You’d think they’d have this big deep meow, but they don’t,” Keiger says.

If you’re bringing home a Maine Coon, know that all that gorgeous fur comes at a price, so plan on regular grooming sessions.

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Persian

Calling a Persian cute is like calling Mt. Everest tall. After all, these famously glamorous felines have been soaking in the compliments for centuries. But there’s just something irresistibly adorable about their long luxurious coats, big eyes and sweet, open-faced expressions. “I often think they look like little pansies,” Keiger says.

Those long-flowing locks do come with grooming requirements. Persians require daily combing, regular baths and blowouts. And that sweet smushed-face has been known to lead to some respiratory issues. (Breeders have been working to fix that problem.)

Although they have a reputation for being lounge cats, Persians are actually quite affectionate and people-oriented. Calm and mellow, they’re good with kids and love to show their love to their owners. “I had a Persian who used to nuzzle my face to wake me up in the morning,” Keiger says. “Now think how flat a Persian’s face is. I’d open my eyes and there’d be two big copper-colored eyes looking back at me.”

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Bengal

Talk about the call of the wild! With its huge eyes and dramatic spotted coat, the Bengal looks like a little leopard sitting right in your living room. And just wait until you touch one. Keiger says the Bengal’s coat is so silky and smooth, it almost feels like a wild animal pelt.

Today’s Bengals aren’t actually wildcats, but they have ancestors who were. The breed was first developed in the 1960s by crossing domestic cats with a small wildcat species called the Asian leopard cat. That’s how they became the only domestic cat breed to have distinctive rosettes, like the markings seen on leopards and jaguars. (CFA rules now require that registered Bengals be at least five generations removed from any wild blood.)

Not surprisingly, Bengals are not just cute. They’re also high-energy and athletic. “They need a lot of daily interactivity and exercise,” says Keiger, who recommends supplying the cats with plenty of toys and exercise equipment like those big cat wheels. “They have to have something to do with all that energy.”

Smart, affectionate and endlessly playful, the Bengal can be a great family pet. “They’re very sweet,” Keiger says. But their love doesn’t come cheap. Bengals are one of the most expensive cat breeds, with the price of a show-quality kitten ranging as high as $6,000.

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RagaMuffin

The RagaMuffin was born to be cuddled. “The whole essence of the breed is a sweet look,” Keiger says. RagaMuffins have long silky coats, big expressive eyes and a teddy-bear personality that makes them irresistibly cute.

One of the CFA’s newer breeds, the RagaMuffin was created by a group of former Ragdoll breeders who wanted a cat that was as sweet as a Ragdoll but that came in a variety of colors. “There are a few more differences, but it’s a new breed and it’s continuing to emerge,” Keiger says. “The idea was to create the most loving long-haired lap cat.”

Mission accomplished. RagaMuffins are unfailingly sweet-tempered and happy to cuddle anytime, anywhere. And despite their long rabbit-soft fur, they’re not high-maintenance because their fur is resistant to mats and tangles. A good comb-out once or twice a week is all they need.

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Russian Blue

These silvery stunners are not just cute, they’re the epitome of elegance. Legend has it they were even the favored pet of the Russian tsars. Take one look at their lush blue-gray coat, and it’s easy to see why.

“The guard hairs, the long straight hairs, are tipped in silver,” Keiger says. “It gives them a frosted appearance, so that when they move it looks like shimmering.”

Blues have dazzling emerald-green eyes and a smiling muzzle that make it look like they know something you don’t. Known for their smarts, these shorthairs can be a little shy around strangers (“they have to check you out first,” Keiger says), but once a Blue has decided you’re worthy of his or her attention, there’s no stopping their affectionate nature. Russian Blues are loyal, and Keiger says they love laps. If you’re sitting down, they know just where they need to be.

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Birman

With the Birman, the eyes have it. “These guys have the most expressive blue eyes ever,” Keiger says. “They’re really beautiful.”

Known as the sacred cat of Burma—their name comes from the French word for Burma—Birmans are a long-haired breed that comes in a variety of pointed colors, and all have white on their feet. The result is that they always look like they’re wearing gloves and boots. And how much do they love their people? Well, they’re sometimes called the Velcro cat for a reason. “They want to be with you all the time,” Keiger says.

Loving and laid-back companions, Birmans don’t require a lot of exercise—though they love to play!—or intensive grooming, even with those flowing locks. That because they don’t have an undercoat. “All that hair is all guard hair that doesn’t mat,” Keiger says. “Most kitties, when they get their hair wet, it’ll curl up and knot. But with Birmans, you pat it, blow it dry and it’s like you never touched it.”

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Scottish Fold

With their round heads, enormous eyes and ears that fold downward, Scottish Folds can be downright stunning to look at, and of course, they’re incredibly cute, Keiger says. Scottish Folds come in both long and short-haired varieties, and in a full range of colors. And with famous fans like Taylor Swift, who has two Scottish Folds, the breed has seen a spike in popularity.

Keiger says Scottish Folds are sweet, playful, incredibly affectionate and just all-around great cats to live with. Their easygoing nature makes them good for families, and they’re fairly low maintenance with no special grooming requirements.

One thing to note: Their folded ears are the result of a genetic condition called osteochondrodysplasia, which affects the development of cartilage. It also makes Scottish Folds prone to arthritis, so consult a vet if you see signs of pain or stiffness in other parts of their bodies.

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Sources:

• Teresa Keiger, allbreed judge with the Cat Fanciers’ Association; phone interview, March 25, 2025
• The International Cat Association: TICA Recognized Breeds
• The Cat Fanciers’ Association: CFA Recognized Breeds