Calm and feline companionship don't always go hand in hand, especially if you opt for a kitten instead of a fully-grown cat. However, not every household is suited for fiery and energetic felines. In such cases, it becomes essential to explore the calmest cat breeds that are a perfect match for your serene home environment.
Annette Louviere, a DVM at Wisdom Health Genetics, understands the allure of falling in love with the first cat you encounter. However, when you visit a shelter or talk to a breeder, finding the ideal peaceful companion may require spending some one-on-one time with the cats and asking questions about their socialization and life experiences.
Louviere emphasizes that certain cat breeds have been selectively bred to exhibit predictable personalities. Nevertheless, she notes that not all individuals of a particular breed will necessarily conform to those expectations, as cats, true to their nature, possess unique personalities. She further explains that the most affectionate lap cats are those that have been properly socialized from an early age and exposed to various stimuli.
From the gentle and amiable Siberians to the soothing purrs of Persians, we have compiled a list of the 9 most calm cat breeds that are sure to complement your lifestyle and bring a sense of tranquility to your home.
1. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are called Ragdolls for a reason: they're incredibly gentle and laidback, and will literally go floppy in your arms like a ragdoll. They are among the cat breeds that are known for their extreme quiet. Ragdolls are also very affectionate, making for great lap cats, and will probably follow you around, waiting for you to settle so they can snuggle. They will play fetch, and come when you call them, so they aren't just couch potatoes!
Breed Overview
- Weight: 10-20 pounds (4.5-9 kg)
- Length: Medium to long
- Personality: Gentle, docile, and affectionate
- Coat Length: Semi-long
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns
- Eye Color: Blue
- Life Expectancy: 12-17 years
2. British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are popular due to their beautiful appearance and calm demeanor. They're famous for being very mellow and undemanding, and would rather sit right next to you than climb up into your lap. These cats have a stocky build, plush coats, and a serene presence. They are content to lounge around, observe their surroundings, and create a calm and peaceful atmosphere in any home.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 9-18 pounds (4-8 kg)
- Length: Short
- Personality: Dignified and laid-back
- Coat Length: Short and dense
- Coat Color: Various colors, commonly blue-gray
- Eye Color: Copper or gold
- Life Expectancy: 12-17 years
3. Maine Coons
Maine Coons are considered the gentle giants of the feline world, as they can weigh up to 25 pounds! While they can be very playful and curious, they don't tend to be hyperactive. They are friendly, adaptable, and have a reputation for being patient with both humans and other pets.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 8-18 pounds (3.6-8 kg) for females, 13-25 pounds (5.9-11.3 kg) for males
- Length: Long and muscular
- Personality: Gentle, friendly, and sociable
- Coat Length: Long and water-resistant
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns
- Eye Color: Green, gold, or copper
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
4. Scottish Fold
Recognized for their adorable folded ears and cute round faces, Scottish Folds possess a captivating charm that can instantly melt anyone's heart. According to Louviere, they're even-tempered, but they may exhibit more energy compared to typical lap cats. Scottish Folds are known for their capacity to form deep connections with their favorite humans, often showing a special fondness for them.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 6-13 pounds (2.7-5.9 kg)
- Length: Short to medium
- Personality: Easygoing and affectionate
- Coat Length: Short to medium
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns
- Eye Color: Varies depending on coat color
- Life Expectancy: 11-14 years
5. Birman
A brief glimpse into their historical background suggests that Birman cats are among the most relaxed and easygoing felines. Legend has it that these cats established a deep bond with humans centuries ago when they served as loyal companions to temple monks. This affectionate feline adores shadowing her cherished humans, moving from one room to another. It is worth noting that Birman cats are not particularly fond of being left alone frequently and prefer the company of their human companions.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 6-12 pounds (2.7-5.4 kg)
- Length: Medium
- Personality: Sociable, gentle, and loving
- Coat Length: Long
- Coat Color: Points with a lighter body color
- Eye Color: Blue
- Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
6. Persian
"A calm cat will usually be a friendly cat who likes to be pet and purrs immediately when given pets under the chin," Butzer says. And more often than not, Persian cats fill the bill. Their grooming needs are not for the faint of heart, but you'll be rewarded with the cutest smooshy-faced lap cat anyone could ask for. Persians are also very quiet and don't really make a ton of noise. Overall, they're relaxed, laid-back, and not too clingy, even though they love affection.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 7-12 pounds (3.2-5.4 kg)
- Length: Medium to long
- Personality: Calm, gentle, and undemanding
- Coat Length: Long and thick
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns
- Eye Color: Blue or copper
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
7. Chartreux
Chartreux cats are often described as quiet, patient, exceptionally well-manned, gentle, quiet, and friendly. They possess a calm and composed demeanor. The Chartreux is a medium-sized cat with a medium-short double coat with a unique texture—it’s slightly woolly and breaks at the neck, chest, and flanks like sheep’s wool. The coat is always a solid blue-gray color, and the hair ends are tipped with silver, lending an iridescent sheen to the coat.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 7-16 pounds (3.2-7.3 kg)
- Length: Medium to large
- Personality: Quiet, patient, and easygoing
- Coat Length: Short and dense
- Coat Color: Blue-gray
- Eye Color: Copper or gold
- Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
8. Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is a unique breed resulting from the crossing of Persians and American Shorthairs. It is often referred to as the "lazy man's Persian" due to its low grooming requirements, thanks to its shorter coat. Despite their shorter fur, Exotic Shorthairs share similar characteristics with Persians, including their sweet, gentle, and calm nature. These cats thrive on affection and enjoy cuddling, making them excellent companions for families. Additionally, they possess the ability to entertain themselves and are content with some alone time, allowing for harmonious coexistence.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 8 to 15 pounds (3.6 to 6.8 kg)
- Length: Medium-sized body, around 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35 cm)
- Personality: Sweet, docile, and laid-back
- Coat Length: Dense and plush, but shorter
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns
- Eye Color: Large and round, with various colors
- Life Expectancy: Average of 12 to 15 years
9. Ragamuffin
Ragamuffins are magnificent and sizable cats known for their serene and agreeable nature. These felines are exceptionally affectionate, often compared to the cuddliness of a teddy bear, making them perfect companions for families. With their intelligence, they are capable of learning tricks, yet they also have a contentedness when being cradled in your arms throughout the day. Ragamuffins combine beauty, calmness, and unwavering devotion to create an ideal pet for those seeking a loving and gentle companion.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 10-20 pounds (4.5-9 kg) for males, 8-15 pounds (3.6-6.8 kg) for females.
- Length: Medium to long body length.
- Personality: Calm, agreeable, and affectionate.
- Coat: Long, dense, and plush.
- Coat Color: Various colors and patterns.
- Eye Color: Varies.
- Life Expectancy: Average lifespan of 12-16 years.
To better understand their behavior, you should watch this video