10 Best Cat Breeds for First-Time Owners

10Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is noticeable for its short blue coat and its noticeable green eyes. It is an older breed and one of the first recognized cat breeds.

A Russian Blue cat is mostly quiet except when asking for food, the breed does well with humans and can provide comfort to people as necessary, making it a good cat for those who are a little more social.

9Burmese cat

The Burmese has a short body with a rounded head. Burmese cats enjoy being around people and will often follow them around the house. The breed is also relatively intelligent, being a good option for first time owners to explore.

The Burmese is especially loyal, which is why many dog owners turn to Burmese cats when they're looking for cat breeds. They like how the cat has the same form of loyalty as most dog breeds would have towards their owners.

8Somali cat

Somalis are more energetic than most other cat breeds, but the breed is also social and enjoys being around people. The Somali cat is especially great around children, as it gets along well with kids who might be more active.

The breed does not attack others and is very positive around people, although it can become verbal when it feels uncomfortable in certain situations.

7Exotic Shorthair

An Exotic Shorthair cat is similar to a Persian cat, but the Exotic Shorthair doesn't have an overly long coat. The fur is thick and dense, but its short length makes it easy to maintain.

The Shorthair is an affectionate breed, but it will not follow people around the house all day. These cats are also flexible in their sleeping habits, as they tend to prefer colder spaces. The cat's voice is also soft and easy to enjoy. The Exotic Shorthair is often shy around strangers, but the cat isn't going to be overly rough around them.

6Ragdoll

The Ragdoll breed features a slightly longer coat, but the fur has a silky feel that doesn't require as much grooming as what another cat might demand. Consistent combing helps when you take care of your cat, but it will be easier to handle than what a Persian or other long-haired cats might demand.

First time owners will find it easier to train a Ragdoll and to teach it tricks, making it one of the most well-behaved breeds around.

5Sphynx cat

You'll instantly notice the Sphynx breed for how it is hairless, although some Sphynx cats might have some short bits of hair. The cat's lack of fur will prompt the cat to seek warm areas, making them great cats who can keep their owners company while sleeping.

The Sphynx breed is also energetic and enjoys playing, but Sphynx cats especially enjoy being close to their owners. Your cat will need regular bathing, as it is often tough for the Sphynx to groom itself due to a lack of hair.

4Scottish Fold

You'll instantly notice a Scottish Fold from its ears pointing forward towards the head, creating an owl-like look. Scottish Folds are comfortable around other people and can handle both single and multiple-person households.

These cats aren't very vocal, but their voices are soft when they are active and verbal. Scottish Folds can feature mid-length coats, although their lengths can vary. Weekly combings are recommended, although the coat is easy to move through and maintain.

3American Shorthair

The traditional American Shorthair is another of the best cat breeds for first time owners looking for a cat that can get along with other people. The Shorthair does well with children and other pets. The short coat doesn't require much grooming.

The Shorthair is also relaxed and can entertain itself as necessary, although it does appreciate the occasional attention from other people in the house. The American Shorthair is also more outgoing towards strangers than the Exotic Shorthair. The American Shorthair won't demand far too much attention from strangers.

2Siamese cat

A traditional breed, the Siamese cat is intelligent friendly. The Siamese gets along well with other people and can handle other cats. The breed's short coat makes it easy to groom. These cats can demand attention at times, but it is easy to please.

The Siamese cat is also rather vocal, although its voice is relatively pleasing and easy to hear, making it a good choice for first time owners to consider.

1Maine Coon

The best of the cat breeds for first time owners is the Maine Coon, a breed that is often seen as a cat equivalent to a dog in that the Maine Coon enjoys following people around. The cat is also compared with dogs for how it is much larger in size than most other cat breeds, but the cat still isn't too dependent on other people. The cat gets along well on its own, but it does well with other pets and various children around the house.

The Maine Coon also has a long coat that is easy to comb. The cat's tufted paws ensure its protection while walking in many environments. The cat's large ears also make it easier for the breed to hear others and to listen to commands. It does well in responding to commands and various messages.

Related: Maine Coon vs. Normal Cat: What is the Difference?