With so many breeds to choose from, it’s no wonder if you’re having a difficult time deciding what type of cat you want to adopt. The first step, of course, is determining whether you’d like a kitten or are more comfortable introducing a mature cat into your home.
If your heart is set on only one particular breed of cat, you’ll probably have to find a reputable breeder and go the kitten route. However, if you’re open to considering one of the lovely creatures at your local rescue, you might just find the specific breed you’d prefer waiting with its feline friends for a forever home.
Cat personality traits
Interestingly, the American Veterinary Medical Association completed a study that discovered the five following particular personality traits in cats:
- Agreeable felines are quite gentle, friendly, and affectionate.
- Dominance refers to bullying behavior and aggression directed at other cats.
- Extrovert cats are active, curious, inquisitive, inventive, smart, and vigilant.
- Impulsive felines are erratic and reckless in their behavior.
- Neuroticism covers cats who are more anxious, insecure, shy, and fearful of people.
Breeds certainly tend toward certain common traits, but keep in mind that each individual cat has its own personality. Regardless of its breed, your own furry friend may display each of the above characteristics to a greater or lesser extent, and you’ll only understand its personality after spending time with it.
Cat breed characteristics
You’re probably well aware of the domestic shorthair, the most common breed of cat. These cats are technically mixes of various breeds, and they come in a range of familiar fur colors and markings: black, grey, white, calico, tabby, tortoiseshell, and more.
Beyond the domestic shorthair, here are five lesser-known breeds and their typical personality traits.
Abyssinian
Abyssinians are known for being endlessly inquisitive and observant. They love nothing more that following their person from one room to another and trying to get in on the action, whatever it is. Their need to be near their owner means that they dislike being left home alone.
These felines are also high in intelligence and thoroughly enjoy playing games—and maybe even learning a trick or two. In addition, they’re quite communicative and will try to tell you just what they’re thinking, in a gentle trilling voice. If you’re looking for an active cat that responds to affection and requires your undivided attention, this gorgeous cat would make the ideal pet.
Bengal
The Bengal is another breed that tends to be on the active side and is very responsive to their owner. This is a friendly feline with a big personality who can be quite chatty. High in intelligence, these animals have superior memories, meaning that you can have lots of fun teaching them tricks. One trait that is quite unusual in the breed is that they actually like to play in water. In addition, they have been known to go on hikes with their pet parents.
Bengals hail from Asia originally and have distinctive fur. Their coat features spots and swirls not unlike those of a leopard. They’re also skilled hunters who stand ready to rid your home of rodents.
Devon Rex
Another breed that tops the feline intelligence scale is the Devon Rex. Smartness and personality often go hand in hand, and this maxim certainly holds true with this small domestic breed. Devon Rex cats are exceptionally affectionate, cuddly, energetic, and playful. Plus, they seem to want to get to know everyone they meet, whether human or animal.
They have a cute, pixie-shaped face with overly large ears and big, round eyes. Their coats have more of the appearance and feel of fuzz rather than fur. As such, they need to be kept warm, and their delicate hide should not be brushed. Here’s another fun fact: if the Devon Rex reminds you of E.T. or Yoda, there’s a reason for that. Director Steve Spielberg created these big screen characters after being inspired by the breed.
Maine Coon
On the other end of the size spectrum is the Maine Coon. These beautiful felines have thick, long fur and large feet. They can grow to be quite big animals, up to 25 lbs. if you can believe it, so be prepared to feed your Maine Coon accordingly. This breed is a descendent of Norwegian Forest Cats.
Despite their imposing size for a cat, these gentle giants are calm and friendly by nature. Be prepared for some serious snuggling and for them to follow you around the house. Exceedingly curious and personable, they interact readily with their pet parents, visitors, and any other animals they meet.
Lykoi
This breed is a very unique looking cat: it is partially hairless and what fur it does have is wiry, thin, and feathery. The Lykoi’s appearance has led some to describe it as a werewolf cat or wolf cat.
These felines shy away from strangers but once they get to know you, they’re exceptionally affectionate. With lots of brainpower, the Lykoi loves problem-solving games and will play quite independently on their own. Still, they will demand some quality time with their favorite person.
A multitude of breeds
As you can see, each of these breeds is known for having particular personality traits and a certain appearance. While this is a good general summary of each breed’s signature characteristics, keep in mind that each individual cat is different.
When you’re adopting a cat from a rescue, be sure to ask the staff questions about its personality, behaviors, habits, and known history. Spend some time with the cat, too—that’s the best way to get to know it’s particular quirks.