22 Friendly Cat Breeds

Every cat comes with its own distinct personality, which can always differ from the breed standard. But if you are looking for an extra friendly feline, check out this list of the friendliest cat breeds.

If you are looking for a constant lap warmer, exotic shorthair cats are happy to take on the job. These cats are known for their loyalty and affection, following their owners around the house and cuddling with them whenever they are offered the chance. Exotic shorthairs tend to be cautious around too much activity, so it may take them some time to warm up to children and strangers. But once you are in an exotic shorthair's heart, it's a dedicated companion.

Unlike the exotic shorthair, the Abyssinian is all about activity. This breed is active, intelligent and adores playing games. The Abyssinian is undiscriminating when it comes to playmates. They enjoy interacting with people of all ages, family and strangers. The Abyssinian's adaptability makes it a great choice for parents who want a cat that can hang out with their little ones.

Like their squished-faced relatives the exotic shorthairs, the Persian is a gentle breed that lives for a good petting session. These cats are quick to return affection if you offer it, as long as you are not too rough with them. While the Persian isn't extremely active, this breed does enjoy being surrounded by others, sitting close and taking in the scene.

Don't be fooled by talk that Russian blues are aloof. These cats just like to observe before they act. Once this breed is comfortable with you, expect them to always be close by. Russian blues love to play and be a part of everything you do, including sharing your bed. Because of their reserved nature, Russian blues won't rush to be a part of social gatherings. Once they feel settled, they are quick to come out and accept their cuddles.

The Burmese is a people pussycat. These kitties thrive on attention and quickly get it with their charming demeanor. Burmese cats love to "talk" about their day while parked in your lap. They are happy to accept attention from any person or pet willing to dish it out. In fact, Burmese cats thrive on affection so much that experts recommend adopting another animal to keep them company, especially if you are often out of the home.

Siamese cats share many of the Burmese's loving qualities, plus an added dose of curiosity. Siamese cats not only crave your attention, they also want to be part of everything you do. They will happily butt in on chores, meals and TV time. Because of their range of interests, this breed is also known for easily getting along with everyone and often acting like a dog. Siamese are so canine-like that they have been known to take up leashed walks and games of fetch.

The Somali is another cat breed that takes a more active approach to getting attention. This breed lives to play games and try puzzles, and is eager to do it with anyone who is interested. Their high energy levels and love for bonding make Somalis ideal for agility training. While this breed loves attention, they do not like to share it with other pets. Somalis seem to thrive best when they are the only pet and are the furry spotlight of a home.

Ragdolls got their name for the limp body position they have when getting attention. This breed is basically built for affection. Ragdolls are laid-back and are often willing to put up with a lot if it means getting attention. This breed is not big on exploring, preferring to follow owners around the house and stay within petting distance. These cats usually keep this affectionate, kitten-like demeanor into old age.

Birmans maintain a balance between playfulness and affection. These adaptable cats like playing games with other pets and children, but also appreciate a good cuddle when everything has calmed down. Not steadfast lap cats, Birmans will occupy themselves for periods of time and they eagerly seek you out for a good head scratch. Because of this flexible attitude, Birmans usually do not have trouble warming up to new guests.

The Manx is known for not having a tail, but that doesn't stop this breed from socializing. Smart and observant Manx cats are quick to join in on social gatherings and games. They love to play fetch and try out new toys. These kitties adore company and especially appreciate those who are willing to listen to them "talk" about their day. Once you gain a Manx's trust, which shouldn't take very long, the cat will always be a dedicated companion to you.

The Maine coon is one of those cats that can get along with just about everyone, animal or human. This breed can easily adjust its personality from playful to relaxed, and equally enjoys play and cuddle sessions. This flexibility also makes this breed a great travel companion, especially since most Maine coons take to leash training easily. These cats will let you know how special you are to them by frequently giving you head butts and following you from room to room.

A study of different cat breeds found that sphynx cats tend to be the sweetest kitties towards strangers. The hairless felines are quick to cuddle with anyone for warmth, but also for attention. This breed does not enjoy too much alone time, so they can often be found "helping" with whatever others in the household are doing. Hungry for love at all times, sphynx cats are known for doing silly things to keep their owners engaged and attentive.

This breed is a sight to see with its curly fur and wide eyes. The Devon Rex is a lover of people, spending as much time as possible with you when you're home. These cats greet you at the door and follow you from room to room. They're always looking for affection from you, but they won't get into any mischief while you're not home. This breed is good for working families, content to be home alone but ready for love the second someone walks through the door.

Closely related to the ragdoll, this cat is patient, happy and sociable. They stick by your side wherever you are in the house and greet you at the door with a meow when you get home. They're a great lover of children and play very well with them. Staying patient through dress up and make believe, they'll tolerate a lot with children's rough handling. However, the ragamuffin does need some down time and enjoys it best with you on the couch, getting lots of cuddles.

Chartreux cats are a friend to everyone! They are nice to other cats, dogs and kids. There's no one that this breed doesn't like. Their friendly demeanor is evidenced by the smile that they always have on their face. They're adaptable, playful and smart cats. Spend time with them every day, and they'll reward you with lap time and gentle purrs.

This affectionate and friendly breed is adaptable to the needs of any family that they're a part of. They're definitely looking for attention, but they're not demanding with it. This breed likes to be held and to spend time cuddling with you. They're fine to be left alone while you're away and they won't cause any mischief.

This is an outgoing breed that loves to make friends. The munchkin is an energetic cat that enjoys playing with children, other cats and dogs. These cats love to be moving around the house and need ways to stay active. Teach them tricks and bring them puzzle toys so they can stay busy while you're away from home.

Scottish Folds are very outgoing and curious cats. This breed is a lover of their owners. They tend to follow you around from room to room to see what you're up to and be a part of as much as they can. They're very dexterous, using their paws to open cabinets and investigate what's there. Give them lots of love and attention when you're home, so they don't do too much exploring when you're gone.

This breed is a mix of Siamese and Burmese. The end result is an affectionate cat who loves to take center stage. They're very friendly with their owners and love to sit in laps for kisses. These cats like to be with you—literally on you—as you go about the house. They perch on your shoulder and check out everything that you do. They just want to spend time with you, after all!

This is a vocal breed that likes to tell you about their day and ask you about yours. The Japanese Bobtail is quiet with their vocal ranges and use a soft, chirpy noise most often. These cats do best with a companion in the house, preferably another Japanese Bobtail or a dog that will play with them!

The Balinese is a needy breed. Needy, but playful! These intelligent cats need to be active, or they get themselves into trouble. They are willing to walk on a leash, so feel free to take a stroll with your cat in tow after you get home from work. Have plenty of puzzle toys on hand to keep them occupied while you're not home. They are chatty cats, and they love to tell you everything they're thinking while you're home with them.

This is a smart and curious breed, looking to investigate everything in their territory. They're a sociable breed, and they're friendly with children and dogs. These cats have a gentle temperament and love to spend time with you. They'll curl up in your lap or in your bed when you've settled down for the day.