MOST LAID-BACK CATS: TOP 5 FELINES MOST RECOMMENDED BY EXPERTS

Cats are unique in the world of pets with the way that they integrate into families. Any cat parent will attest that owning a cat is an exercise in consent. 2016 children’s viral hit “The Cat Song” by Bryant Oden sums up: “Cats, they’re the sweetest. Cats, they’re the meanest. That’s just the way it goes.”

Though all cats must be treated with respect, some breeds are very cool-tempered and go with the flow more easily than their jumpier cousins. Our list of the top five most laid-back cat breeds could be of interest to those who want a feline with a chill vibe.

1. Maine Coon

The sweet Maine Coon is a big kitty that likes to relax. These large loaves love to lounge. Pets Radar raves: “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. Most people report that Maine Coons are also fairly laidback. They are very people-oriented and may follow you from room to room.”

Catvills praises the breed: “A Maine Coon is content to follow their owner around the house and observe their daily activities. They aren’t lap cats but prefer to stay close to their family and might be bribed to cuddle next to you in bed. Despite their size, Maine Coons are easy to care for and require only minimal brushing and a lot of love to feel happy.”

The Discerning Cat exclaims, “Their affectionate nature and calm persona make them the perfect pets for families with young kids. While calm, they are also very playful, making them ideal playmates. They are people-oriented, so don’t be surprised by them accompanying you everywhere at home.”

2. Birman

These handsome cats are not too slim and not too chunky, but are known for their soft and fluffy coats. Birmans fit in well with a relaxed family that enjoys quiet time, and they seem to seek out human affection. The Spruce Pets says they are “medium-sized with a sturdy build, the Birman cat has long, silky hair. Birmans always have four white paws, blue eyes, and are color-pointed: the light-colored body has darker ‘points’ of color on the face, ears, legs, and tail. Birmans are laid-back and loving, making them a great pet for quiet families. These cats get along well with gentle kids and other pets, even gentle dogs.”

‘“The Birman is a constant companion cat with a kind and sweet nature. They have a loving and playful disposition, and they enjoy sitting on your lap or being snuggled in your bed,’ says Karen Lane, the Birman breed council secretary with The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). ‘They love being the center of your attention,’” describes be chewy.

“Birmans are fluffy, medium-to-large-sized cats with quiet dispositions and bright blue eyes. They typically take three years to fully mature. The International Cat Association says Birmans are ‘Velcro cats’ and actually don’t mind being carried around (hello, lazy). Get ready for a constant companion and nap buddy with a Birman,” elaborates Pure Wow.

3. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are an adorable breed that typically have dark faces and striking eyes. These furry love muffins crave attention. iHeart Cats comments, “Aptly named for its tendency to go limp when picked up and handled, the Ragdoll is probably the most laid back of all cat breeds. They are gentle, affectionate and enjoy laying around the house with their people all day long. If you’re looking for a cat to help you relax after a long day’s work, the Ragdoll is your breed.”

The Catnip Times enthusiastically adds, “Much like the Maine Coon, Ragdolls have a tendency to follow their owners around as they just want to be near you, whether that be at your feet, in your lap, or just lazing about in your office while you work. They also tend to be land lovers, so if you need a cat who won’t need rescuing from atop the fridge, the Ragdoll may be for you!”

“Speaking of stealing your heart—spend some time with this blue-eyed cutie and you’ve made a friend for life. The ragdoll’s namesake is melting into your arms when being picked up, kind of like a ragdoll toy. It’s worth noting that the ragdoll breed is Lindsay Butzer’s, DVM and PetMeds partner, number one pick when it comes to the calmest cat breeds,” details Daily Paws.

4. Exotic Shorthair

The exotic shorthair has a distinctive round and preciously cute face. Their squashed-in noses are practically begging for a boop. The Scotsman explains, “Sweet, affectionate and quiet, the Exotic Shorthair is said to be a good cat breed for those with smaller properties due to the fact it doesn’t require much space to run, and prefers warm, cozy snuggles in the house with their owner.”

Pets Radar offers, “The Exotic Shorthair is a rare breed that’s a mix of Persians and American Shorthairs. Many people consider it the ‘lazy man’s Persian,’ because they don’t need nearly as much [grooming] thanks to their shorter coat. But just like Persians, Exotic Shorthairs are sweet, docile, and quiet. They love a good cuddle, and make great family pets because they’re so affectionate, but are also happy to be left alone.”

“An Exotic Shorthair doesn’t need much to be a happy cat—food, some toys, and your love and affection. As such, they make excellent pets for families or single households. In addition to this, Exotic Shorthair cats rarely meow loudly but talk in a soft, musical voice,” states Catvills.

5. Ragamuffin

Is there are breed with a better name than the Ragamuffin? The word originally referred to a person, usually a child, in ragged clothing; but these prim and proper kitties are far from ragged. The Discerning Cat claims, “Ragamuffins are known for being one of the more affectionate cat breeds… They enjoy playing with the occasional toy, but overall, just enjoy lazing about and being near a companion. So, you won’t find them engaging in highly-energy activities like jumping about, running, or going bump in the night. Instead, they prefer to use their energy for more important things— like being carried around in their owner’s arms.”

“These large, majestic cats also get on well with children and cat-loving dogs, which makes them one of the best cat breeds to own. However, Ragamuffins are cats that thrive on attention and don’t do very well when you leave them alone for a long time,” relates Catvills.

iHeart Cats reviews, “Just like his cousin the Ragdoll, the Ragamuffin is a very gentle cat breed who just wants to lounge around the house with his people. This suits their owners well, too, because they have super-soft, rabbit-like fur that is nearly irresistible.”