The most popular cat breeds in the US are a diverse bunch. Just like no two cat breeds are the same, the same is true of kitty parents; some cat owners are looking for a laid-back buddy in the sleepiest cat breeds, while others prefer high-energy cat breeds that love to play.
It’s not just about personality, though. Selecting a cat breed where the coat’s qualities is a major factor could be due to aesthetics, climate or even allergies. In any case, many popular moggies have an iconic look. Whether it’s the luxuriant coats of the long-haired cat breeds to the birthday-suit look of hairless cat breeds, many cat parents want to choose a cat to match their vibe in terms of appearance as well as personality.
If you’ve decided this year is the year you welcome a feline friend into your home, then it’s important to find the right kitty for your four walls who will thrive in your space. To help you figure out what cat is the right fit for you and your lifestyle, we’ve pulled together a number of the most popular cat breeds – this is 2025’s official top ten from the Cat Fancier’s Association.
Most popular cat breeds: The official top 10
10. Russian Blue
Height: Usually around 10 inches
Weight: 7–15 pounds
Life expectancy: 15–20 years
Known for having brains as well as beauty, the Russian Blue is a well-rounded cat who’s affectionate without being clingy, playful without being too full-on and adaptable enough to assimilate into most family dynamics. It totally makes sense, therefore, that they are one of the most popular cat breeds.
These inquisitive kitties love a challenge and are particularly adept at opening doors. That said, you can keep mischief at bay with the best cat toys. They can be a little standoffish with strangers to begin with, but their curiosity soon gets the better of them. They’re especially sensitive to their owners’ moods, and can be a very comforting presence to have around.
9. Sphynx
Height: 8–10 inches
Weight: 6–14 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–15 years
Bald and beautiful sphynx cats might be short on fur, but they’re not short on affection. Some people can be put off from owning a Sphynx because of its baldness, and it’s true that sphynx owners needs to take a few extra precautions. These include bathing, clothing and protecting their hairless kitty from too much sun exposure.
That said, there are few cats more lovable than this unique-looking feline. Curious, intelligent and super-affectionate, wherever you go, a sphynx will follow. They’re a talkative breed too, so be prepared to be charmed by their soft and frequent chirruping. In summary, owners looking for one of the neediest lap cat breeds need look no further.
8. Siberian
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: 10–15 pounds
Life expectancy: 8–10 years
A truly magnificent cat, the fluffy, sweet-faced Siberian is guaranteed to melt your heart. They are built to withstand the harsh Siberian winters, which isn’t hard to see by their thick coats – owners must be prepared to arm themselves with one of the best cat brushes. As natural hunters, they are on the more athletic side, but still take every opportunity to snuggle up with their owners and offer emotional support.
One thing they won’t do is make lots of noise. They are the kind of cat to purr quietly, so much so it almost sounds musical. A Siberian fur friend is bound to get on well with most people, along with cats, dogs and other household pets.
7. British Shorthair
Height: 8–14 inches
Weight: 7–17 pounds
Life expectancy: 15–20 years
Without rounded, teddy-bear features and a stocky build, there are few cats to match the delightful British Shorthair. Their dense coats are wonderful to touch, and are naturally inquisitive about their owners’ activities. If you're worried about broken valuables and general feline chaos, you’ll be pleased to know that British Shorthairs have docile personalities and, while curious, are not destructive.
Lovely to look at, loyal and lovable, these curious cats are one of the best feline additions to just about any household.
6. Devon Rex
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: 6–10 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–15 years
With their wide-eyed expression and their pointy ears, you can spot an elfin-featured Devon Rex from a mile off. Along with pouncing, playing and climbing, a Devon Rex’s habits are perfectly in keeping with their super playful and marvelously mischievous, and somewhat goofy demeanor.
Always eager to please, these veritable court jesters show lots of love and affection from their human family. They also get on great with guests and tolerate small children well. Whether it’s being right by your side, grazing against your leg or jumping up onto your lap, Devon Rexes will go to great lengths to get some TLC. They’re best suited to owners who have plenty of time to devote to fuss and play.
5. Abyssinian
Height: 8–10 inches
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Life expectancy: 9–15 years
As well as being one of the oldest cat breeds, the Abyssinian is also one of the most playful and smart cat breeds.
This fun and affectionate kitty is a great choice for homes with older children as they’re always on the go and just as happy to play as they are to cuddle. However, their boundless energy levels won't keep them on your lap for long! These feline athletes benefit from a secure outdoor catio to run and climb in.
If you’re wondering where your Abyssinian might be hiding, draw your eyes upwards as this active and curious short-haired cat will most likely be perched somewhere where they can see the rest of their cat kingdom.
4. Exotic Shorthair
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: 7–14 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
Similar in look and physiology to some of their longer-haired cousin, the Persian, but with a soft, more manageable coat. Therefore, the exotic shorthair is the perfect pet for an owner whose dream kitty is a Persian, but who doesn’t have hours a week to spend grooming.
An exotic shorthair won’t spend all day on your lap, but will appreciate multiple cuddles throughout the day without being clingy or suffering from separation anxiety. Overall, they’re laid-back, docile, and quiet.
3. Persian
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: 7–14 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
Now we’re into the top three with the Persian cat. This super fluffy cat breed has rounded features, from body to snout to eyes! One minute, these balls of fluff will be lying around lazily without a care in the world, and the next minute, they’ll be darting from one side of the room to the other in an attempt to burn off a sudden burst of energy. However, if they had to choose a favourite activity, it would be lounging around on your lap.
The Persian is another kitty who likes to keep all four feet on the floor, so worry not – your breakables will be safe. As you might expect, Persians need to be trained to accept grooming from an early age, and need daily brushing to keep that magnificent coat tangle and mat-free.
2. Ragdoll
Height: 9–12 inches
Weight: 10–20 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–17 years
The long-haired ragdoll is one of the larger cat breeds in the feline world and, despite their masses of fluff, they don’t tend to moult too much and their coat are easy-care.
Ragdolls have the colourpoint gene, which means the body is always lighter in colour than the legs and head. They have round, cartoonish eyes that are often electric blue. Personality-wise, they are super amenable – devoted without being demanding, gentle, chilled out, and sociable. Their calm yet outgoing personalities are infectious and they can adapt to family as well a apartment life. Short play sessions are welcome for this bright kitty.
1. Maine Coon
Height: 10–14 inches
Weight: 12–22 pounds
Life expectancy: 9–15 years
Did you guess the number one of the most popular cat breeds correctly? The largest of the cat breeds, hairy and super affectionate, the Maine Coon shares several similarities with the Ragdoll. They’re notable for their intelligence and enjoy interactive cat toys.
Maine Coons are robust and independent, but that’s not to say they don’t adore attenion, and are also inqusitive enough to keep tabs on what you’re up to – and ‘help’ if they can!
If you’ve got other animals in your home, a Maine Coon will get along happily with other kitties and dogs alike. They’re known for having lots of personality, but do note: they have a big voice, too! They’re known to make ‘chirping noises’, so you often hear them before you see them..
Read next: Most playful cat breeds
Bethany is an experienced writer who has been writing across the pets and equestrian sector for eight years.
Edited by Georgia Guerin.
This feature was last updated in June 2025 by Bethany Stone.
