Affectionate Cat Breeds That Actually Love to Cuddle
One of the reasons why many potential pet owners don’t like cats is that they have this notion that felines are not affectionate. While it is true that the general population of cats are not as inclined to jump up onto your lap for attention, there are cat breeds that relish the warmth of a human snuggle. These kitties are not only genuinely affectionate. They also cherish every second that they spend on your lap or in your arms. If you’ve always wanted a cat but are put off by their independent and almost aloof nature, then you’ve got to check out these affectionate feline breeds that love to cuddle as much as you do.
Persian
Being the glamor puss of the feline world, there is no denying the Persian when it comes to claiming its spot as an affectionate cat breed. They have this round head that has become the quintessential definition of adorableness and cuteness. Their chubby cheeks and snub nose also add to their charm. And with a cobby body that can grow to full exaggeration, this is a kitty that you would want to have on your lap or in your arms. Not to worry, though because the Persian is a genuine lap cat. It loves to cuddle although it can be curious and very playful at times. It will never jump nor climb. Instead, the Persian will offer you its gentle face and expressive eyes. It’s the Persian’s way of telling you, “hey, pick me up and let’s snuggle.” And if that will not get your attention, then the Persian will let out its soft, melodious voice.
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Ragdoll
Do not let its size fool you. Its name should already give you a clue as to the real nature of the Ragdoll cat. Like the famous toy of little girls, the Ragdoll will go limp the moment you pick it up from the floor. Be forewarned, though. This is a large cat that young and small kids may have problems picking up and carrying. Having said that, the Ragdoll is perfect for adults who want a cuddly and snuggable feline Teddy bear. It will give you that loving look using its deep baby blue eyes. It will follow you wherever your feet may take you around the house, hoping to get your attention and carry it in your arms. The Ragdoll is also one of the friendliest kitties on the planet. It loves getting dressed up and posing for a glamor shot. And if you have a kitty-friendly hound at home, you’ll find the Ragdoll to be snuggling up close to its canine friend.
Ragamuffin
Since we already put the Ragdoll in this list, why don’t we also put its cousin, the Ragamuffin? A cross between Turkish Angoras, Birmans, Persians, and longhaired domestic felines, the Ragamuffin is one of the best when it comes to feline cuddliness and levels of affection. Like the Ragdoll, the Ragamuffin looks like a walking Velcro complete with a longhaired body and the heart of a Golden Retriever. The Ragamuffin will follow its owner around. And the moment its owner takes a seat, the Ragamuffin will take its place on his or her lap. This kitty has the lap cat genes of the Persian and the loyalty and devotion of the Birman. They make excellent playmates of children and dogs. Ragamuffins make for the best travel companions. As such, they’re great at cuddling and snuggling, too. Nothing can ever separate the ‘muffin from its owner. This is a trait that is strong in the cat’s Birman genes.
Scottish Fold
Known as the Teddy Bear of the kitty world, there is no doubt that the Scottish Fold is an adorable, affectionate, cuddly, and snuggable feline. After all, anyone who has owned and played with a Teddy bear before knows how it feels to have a snuggable toy. But the Scottish Fold is not a toy. It is a cat with a very distinct owl-like ears and big round eyes. This is a sweet and calm cat that loves being around the person who showers it with affection and love. When not snuggling with you, the Scottish Fold will play fetch. And if you’re done playing, it will become your feline shadow that follows you around. Unlike other cats that increase their vocalization to get their owner’s attention, the Fold will let out a small, soft meow. It’s sweet and endearing; all the more reason to get this kitty into your abode.
Maine Coon
Many potential cat owners are wary about getting the Maine Coon for a pet. This kitty has the look of a ferocious wild cat. However, it is a true gentle giant. What’s more, the Maine Coon loves to cuddle. Its level of affection is a lot bigger than its 18-lb frame. It has the intelligence to boot, too. This makes the Coon such an adorable large kitty that will keep you entertained on the floor or on the couch. The Coon is curious, but is always happiest when it gets the chance to sit or lie down on your lap. Its curiosity gives it the impetus to be interested in what you’re doing. Hence, don’t fret if this feline will never stop tailing you. Because of its size, energy level, and intelligence, the Maine Coon is the perfect kitty to teach how to walk on a leash. Afterwards, you can always reward it with several hours of cuddle time on your sofa.
Birman
When it comes to sheer devotion and undying loyalty, very few cat breeds can dethrone the Birman. After all, this is a kitty that has mythical, almost magical origins. The Sacre de Birmanie is famous for having won the graces of a Burmese goddess after a temple cat showed its unquestionable loyalty, faithfulness, and devotion to its human master. With a silken coat that glitters with gold, the Birman is a favorite among those who prefer longhaired kitties. But a more important trait of these cats is their level of affection. They are very calm, too. And while they may not assume a docile position when carried in your arms, they relish the fact that you are giving them warmth. This cat may not be as vocal as the Siamese but it will let you know of its intentions via a soft and pretty voice. Now try imagining relaxing on your couch with the Birman on your lap. You cannot get a cuddlier kitty than this.
Tonkinese
The Tonkinese is what you get when you cross an entertaining Burmese and a demanding Siamese. You will also get a kitty that will demand for your attention and will perform a variety of antics to get you to pick it up. It is a very active, outgoing, and playful cat that will involve itself in everything that its owner will do. The Tonk loves staying on the shoulders of its owner, more like a bird perched on a branch of a tree. This is where the Tonk feels right at home; where it is most comfortable. And when you do decide to take a respite from your hectic schedule, expect the Tonkinese to be there by your side. Because of its very nature, the Tonkinese is never for people who cannot give it the attention that it thinks it deserves. It also needs a lot of play time and, of course, cuddle time.
Check out our guides on the Cat Hammocks and Cat Beds for more info.
Siamese
With a very beautiful coat that many cat breeders used to create pedigreed felines, the Siamese deserves a slot in almost any “best feline” list. This is a very old cat breed and is distinguishable by its colorpoints. With stunning good looks, you will never tire of cuddling the Siamese in your arms. Unfortunately, these cats can be very demanding. And if you somehow neglect to give them the kind of attention that they want, they will be very vocal about it. Like a magnet, the Siamese likes to stick around whenever its people are doing something. Otherwise, it will open cabinets, turn on faucets, and seek out hideouts in an effort to draw its people’s attention. Nevertheless, with an affectionate and friendly nature, the Siamese almost always gets away with any mischief that it may have. This is a smart kitty that loves being around its owners for a chance to stay on their laps.
Burmese
If you want a stocky and heavy cat to cuddle, then pick the Burmese. It may have a small and compact body, but it is a heavyweight. Despite their heft, however, Burmese cats are still very acrobatic and active. They love to jump from one raised platform to the next. They have the energy levels that are close to that of a Border Collie. They’re also one of catdom’s smartest breeds. The good thing about the Burmese is that it will doze right on your lap once it’s done with its acrobatic endeavors. It’s a lap cat, but one that loves playtime, too. It adores children and will do almost anything to learn how to perform tricks. When in its placid state, the Burmese can be as docile as a Ragdoll. Dress it up and give it props for a fantastic photoshoot. Because this cat thrives on the attention it receives, it can be devastating if its owners leave it all alone for a long time.
Kurilian Bobtail
Like the Maine Coon, the Kurilian Bobtail has the looks of a wild animal. However, this unusual kitty happens to be one of the gentlest and most affectionate on the planet. It is very friendly to children, other cats, and dogs that also love cats. It leads a very active lifestyle, owing to its strong hunting instincts. That is why if you have small pets like hamsters and guinea pigs, the Kurilian Bobtail shouldn’t be home. While this cat can be as acrobatic as the Burmese, it also relishes moments when it can lie relaxed in your arms or on your lap. This is a cat that breathes to be petted. No wonder it is a cat breed that is now growing in popularity. It’s not very often that you can enjoy the company of a gentle and sociable kitty that looks like a fearsome predator.
Himalayan
The Himalayan has the lap cat characteristics of the Persian and the demanding nature of the Siamese. Hence, you’ll get a cuddly furball that loves nothing less than snuggling up close with its owners. The Himalayan looks more like the colorpoint version of a Persian. It has the fluffy coat of the Persian with the colorpoint pattern of the Siamese. It’s the best of both worlds made more remarkable by its sweet and people-oriented personality. It also possesses the “what-cha doin’” attitude of the Siamese, nosing around whatever its owner is doing. The Himalayan also has the Persian’s sedate personality. Too bad, it doesn’t go limp when picked up and carried like the Ragdoll. Nevertheless, this kitty is the perfect lap cat for those who adore both the Siamese and the Persian.
Selkirk Rex
It may not be as famous as the Persian or the Siamese, but the Selkirk Rex deserves recognition for being one of the world’s most affectionate cat breeds. Unlike most cats, the Selkirk has a curly coat. This is not the result of meticulous crossbreeding, however, but that of spontaneous genetic mutation. Ever since its creation in 1987, the Selkirk Rex has wowed cat fanciers for its easygoing and tolerant nature. A significant part of its affectionate nature comes from its Persian ancestry. And with the addition of British Shorthair and Exotic Shorthair in the mix, you can only guess that the result is a cat that’s as easygoing as can be. Getting a Selkirk Rex into your life makes perfect sense if you want your afternoons and evenings in the company of a gentle and sociable kitty.
From the Persian to the Selkirk Rex, there are many breeds of cat that can be as affectionate and cuddly as dogs. Take your pick from these breeds and get ready to snuggle and cuddle with your new feline friend.
