8 Best Cat Breeds for First-Time Owner
Are you planning to adopt a new feline into your family but don’t know exactly which breed to choose? Considering that there are so many breeds of cat to choose from, we know it can be overwhelming to decide which cat breed best fits you and your family. In this article, we have listed some of the factors to consider when choosing the cat breed you want, as well as the 8 best cat breeds for first-time owners.
6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cat Breed
Temperament
The temperament of the breed is a vital factor to consider when choosing a feline. While other breeds of cats are known for being friendly and outgoing, some breeds are independent or more reserved. For instance, Siamese cats are known for their sociable and talkative nature, while Persian cats tend to be more reserved and laid-back.
Activity Level
The next important factor you should consider is the activity level of the breed. There are some cats who prefer to spend their days just lounging around, while others are more playful and energetic. If you enjoy playing with your cat, you have a choice between the Main Coon and the Bengal. Meanwhile, you can opt to adopt a British Shorthair or Ragdoll if you prefer a more relaxed furry pet.
Grooming Requirements
It is important to note that different breeds of cats have different grooming needs. Long-haired breeds like the Himalayan or the Persians require everyday grooming in order to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. On the other hand, short-haired breeds like the Burmese and the Siamese need less grooming but still require regular brushing. If you’re sensitive to cat hair or have allergies, we would recommend adopting the Sphynx or the Devon Rex.
Health Concerns
Another important factor to consider is the potential health issues that are associated with different breeds of cats. Keep in mind that certain breeds of cats, like the Bengal and the Siamese, are more prone to certain health problems. That being said, it is also a good idea to do some research on the breeds of cats you’re considering adopting.
Size
When choosing a breed of cat, one vital thing you should consider is their size. If you prefer a smaller breed cat, you should definitely adopt the Scottish Fold or the Siamese. On the other hand, if you like larger cats, we would recommend having the Norwegian Forest Cat or the Maine Coon. Just a little reminder that larger cats require more space in general. They are also more expensive to feed.
Compatibility with Other Pets
It is vital to also consider the compatibility of a breed of cat with other pets, especially if you already have pets in your home. There are some cats who are more tolerant of other animals, while others prefer to be the only pet in the house. If you already have dogs or other felines, it is best to choose a breed that is known for its easy-going and friendly nature, such as the British Shorthair or the Ragdoll.
8 Best Cat Breeds For First-Time Owners
If you’re a first-time cat owner, it can be really overwhelming sometimes to choose the best cat breed that fits you and your family. Here we have rounded up the 10 best cat breeds you should consider adopting.
American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a popular choice for families looking to give their children a pet they can grow up with, considering that they are known for having a long lifespan. This cat breed is also best known for its easy-going, adaptable, and friendly nature. Plus, they can go along with other pets around them. They are also low-maintenance cats.
Siamese
Siamese cats are known for their playfulness, intelligence, and affectionate nature. This cat breed loves to talk and spend time with family members, which makes them the best choice for those who are usually around. They also require moderate growing but are low-maintenance in general.
Maine Coon
Maine coons, sometimes referred to as gentle giants, are one of the largest cat breeds that exist today. They are known for their friendly and gentle nature, which makes them the best to have around with young children. This breed of cat is also known to be very affectionate and loves to be petted. Keep in mind that they do require regular grooming due to their long hair, so don’t forget to regularly brush their hair.
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is known for its calm and affectionate nature. They have soft grayish-blue fur, round heads, and thick and strong-looking bodies. Their low-energy levels and laidback personalities make them great fur companions for first-time cat owners. This cat breed is also low-maintenance and likes to eat, so they should be fed two to three meals daily.
Ragdoll
The Ragdoll cat has a gentle and affectionate nature; it loves to be around people. This cat breed is known for its quite docile and laid-back temperament, which makes them easy to care for, especially for first-time cat owners. They do love to be cuddled and get attention from their owner, but they do not get offended if you’re busy spending time with them. They are a low-maintenance cat breed and a great choice for families with children and other pets.
Sphynx
The Sphynx cat is a great option for first-time cat owners with allergies. This cat breed has hairless bodies, so they don’t shed and do not require regular brushing or combing. They are known for their loving, friendly, and playful nature. Since Sphynx has no hair, it is important to note that first-time cat owners should bathe them at least once a week. They should also be needing extra protection from the sun and the cold weather.
Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold Cat is available in two breeds: long-haired and short-haired. This breed of cat is known for its gentle and friendly nature, which makes it a great choice for families with kids and other pets. They have large eyes and very soft fur. They also shed minimally, making them a low-maintenance cat breed.
Birman
The Birman cat is known for its gentle, playful, and affectionate nature. They have long, soft hair that requires regular grooming but is otherwise low-maintenance. This cat breed comes in a variety of different colors, and most of them come with markings on the legs, head, and tail.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cat breed requires careful consideration in terms of preferences, lifestyle, and needs. By taking the time to do some research on different cat breeds and taking your preferences into account, you can find a feline friend that will be a perfect fit for you and your family.
Featured image courtesy on Flickr.
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