32 best cats for extroverts
The best cats for extroverts just might be a group of kitties if you're looking for an outgoing and social feline friend who will adore being in on all the action.
Extroverts draw their energy from being around others and while many people believe that the independent nature of cats means they're better suited to introverts, there are plenty of breeds that adore attention and love to play.
When it comes to how to prepare for a cat, one of the most important things is to consider your own nature, personality traits and lifestyle. Even though all cats are different, selecting a breed that's known to be active or enjoys being around others makes it more likely that you'll find your perfect match.
So, before you head out and stock up on the best interactive cat toys and food, take a look at this list of the best cats for extroverts — we're confident that by the time you get to the end, you will have found your forever friend.
1. Burmese
An utterly one of a kind little kitty. Spend even just a few moments with a Burmese and you're guaranteed to fall head over heels in love with their clever, friendly and social nature. Wearing a permanently sweet expression on their face, this breed has a delightful dose of mischief to them thanks to their endless curiosity, and they'll certainly let you know through plenty of vocalization if you're not paying them enough attention! Just be mindful that the Burmese need a lot of mental and physical stimulation each day to stay happy and healthy, so knowing how to play with a cat will be essential if you plan on welcoming one into your family.
2. Abyssinian
With an appearance that makes it look like it just wandered out of the jungle, the striking Abyssinian is a cat that loves to be busy. Most content when it's on the move, this breed is unlikely to jump up on your lap for a cuddle, but don't mistake that for aloofness — this is a very friendly and loyal breed with an inquisitive nature who will delight in supervising any activity that you happen to want to do. Super playful, they have an endless appetite for games, and because of their high need for stimulation, you'll want to ensure you have plenty of time on your hands to entertain them.
3. Somali
If you're thinking this cat looks a lot like the Abyssinian, you'd be correct — they're closely related, the key difference being that the Somali has a semi-long haired coat. But their temperaments are almost identical with the Somali being equally fond of creating adorable chaos wherever they go! They're very demanding of their owner's time and attention and are prone to getting into mischief when they don't get it, one of many reasons to use a cat puzzle feeder toy with this breed. But if you have the time and energy to devote to them, you'll find you're rewarded with a curious, chatty and intelligent companion.
4. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is one large cat and is considered the oldest native breed in the US, having originated there in the 1800s. Solid and ruggedly built, they have a shaggy coat and tufted ears and while they may at first seem intimidating, you'll quickly find that these gentle giants have the sweetest natures. Laid-back and self-assured, nothing phases the Maine Coon which is widely regarded as one of the best cats for kids. They're patient and can co-exist peacefully with just about anyone, including other cats and any dog breed that enjoys feline company. Talkative without being loud, they don't like missing out on anything, so expect them to always be wherever you are.
5. Siamese
Regarded as being one of the most intelligent cat breeds, the Siamese is a small to medium-sized feline with a short coat and a long and elegant body that moves with a high degree of grace. Not only are they incredibly striking to look at, the Siamese is also known for being highly affectionate, chatty and loving, and because they're quite sociable, adopting them in pairs is a good idea. They require a lot of games, toys and human interaction in order to thrive, as they can become depressed and destructive when bored. Curious and energetic, these chatty and dependent cats do best with experienced owners and quiet and calm households.
6. Tonkinese
Affectionately referred to as the 'Tonk', the Tonkinese is an oriental-type cat with large eyes and broad ears. Wearing an intelligent expression on its face, this breed has bucket loads of personality, and while they're calmer than their relative, the Siamese, they are still chatty and will be very demanding of your time and energy. Very dog-like in their ways, the Tonkinese likes to be with their people 24/7 and is fond of climbing and jumping. They won't settle on your lap for hours at a time, but they do enjoy a cuddle and they're known for being slightly mischievous at times — launching themselves at you from a curtain rail or shelf would not be out of the question!
7. Singapura
With large almond-shaped eyes and a short and smooth coat, the Singapura is a little cat with a big personality. Impish in nature, their mischievous antics are bound to delight you and while they adore being helpful, you may find them sitting on your laptop or climbing all over your shoulders while you're trying to work which is not quite the help you had in mind! Still, you'll be hard-pressed not to fall in love with their antics, although we do recommend you think very carefully about your decor choices before welcoming one of these charming kitties into your home — they're very fond of pushing things off shelves! While they are friendly, lively and affectionate, we recommend them for quiet households only as they can find loud environments stressful.
8. Munchkin
Take one look at a Munchkin and the first thing you'll notice is their incredibly short leg length, which gives them a very long and low appearance, and means they move with a wriggly and rolling motion. They have thick, plush coats, which make it almost impossible to resist cuddling them — thankfully they're very affectionate, so they won't mind settling down for a good snuggle session. The Munchkin is also very loving, sociable and playful, and because they are inquisitive and active, they'll respond well to being trained to do tricks and walk on a leash.
9. Toyger
You can certainly tell that this kitty was bred to resemble a miniature tiger because that's exactly what they look like. A beautiful and rare breed with an easy-going demeanor, the Toyger is exceptionally social and is a real family-friendly cat, getting on well with other animals and children. They do best with experienced owners who can meet their needs for a high level of enrichment, so if you do decide to welcome one of these energetic and curious little cuties into your home, you'll want to make sure you have plenty of time for simulated hunting games and interactive play.
10. Sphynx
Now, let's face it, the Sphynx is not the most beautiful cat to look at but look beneath their lack of fur and what you'll find is a fellow extrovert who is highly intelligent, curious and affectionate. Many people that own a Sphynx would say they're almost dog-like in their level of friendliness, getting on marvelously with both their chosen humans and any strangers that may pop by for a visit. Extremely outgoing, they crave the companionship of their people, so this is not a kitty that can be left alone. They also don't do well in busy family homes, preferring calm environments where they can enjoy a quiet cuddle at the end of the day.
11. Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is a very popular breed of cat, mostly due to their genuinely sweet and gentle temperaments which make them a joy to have in the home. They thrive on human interaction and adore affection, yet they're not clingy or demanding. A medium-sized and stocky breed immediately recognizable thanks to the way their ears fold forward, this breed is friendly towards everyone and will love curling up beside you. Can you train a cat? Well, you certainly can if they're a Scottish Fold! They're a fairly intelligent breed and will pick up basic tricks with ease.
12. Bengal
If you're looking for a cat that will give you a run for your money on the extroversion scale, then look no further than the beautiful Bengal. This breed makes the most wonderful companion for experienced and active cat owners who are looking for a feline that adores human company and is always up for an adventure. The Bengal is not the cat for you if you're looking for a calm and quiet lap cat, but if you have the time and energy to provide them with all the stimulation and enrichment they need to thrive (hiking with cats is a real possibility with this breed), they'll reward you with lots of love and affection.
13. Siberian Forest Cat
If you have gentle and respectful children in your family and you're looking for a loyal, loving and affectionate companion for them, the Siberian Forest Cat is a serious contender. They get along well with people and other animals of all ages and stages and adore cuddling. Sweet-natured and highly active, this breed needs extensive outdoor space, daily grooming sessions, and plenty of opportunities to play and problem solve. The Siberian Forest Cat does well in relaxed homes and because of their independent nature, they're more than happy to be left alone during the day if needed.
14. Exotic Shorthair
With the exception of its shorter coat, the Exotic Shorthair is very similar to the Persian cat, both in looks and personality. A sweet and loving breed, the Exotic Shorthair is friendly to both humans and other animals, and has a warm and undemanding nature that makes them very easy to please. They're playful, but they're not so high maintenance that they'll run you ragged, and they're also super loyal to their chosen humans, wanting to be involved in everything that they do. A quiet cat with a soft voice, and laid-back attitude who loves one-on-one time, the Exotic Shorthair is well worth considering.
15. Japanese Bobtail
A small cat with a tail that resembles that of a bunny, the Japanese Bobtail is a sociable cat who scores highly on the friendliness and affection scale. Highly adaptable, they'll slot in beautifully to almost any living situation, getting on well with adults, children and other pets. They love to be fussed and cuddled and they're very clown-like in their antics at times, which makes them very endearing. Charming people-loving pets, the Japanese Bobtail will happily follow you from room to room and makes for a devoted and confident companion.
16. Devon Rex
Nicknamed 'Poodle' because of their curly hair, the Devon Rex is known for their alien-like appearance thanks to their large ears, big eyes and triangular face. But look beyond their distinctive features and what you'll find is an active, sociable and friendly cat who has a sweet and mischievous nature that will have you eating out of the palm of their paw. If you're not already familiar with the signs of a happy cat, the Devon Rex will certainly display them all to you if you give them the stimulation and interaction they need to thrive — think frequent chirrups and wanting to be by your side 24/7. Always up for a cuddle, they have vibrant personalities and are very intelligent, making them super easy to train.
17. Turkish Angora
Slender and delicate with a silky coat, welcome a Turkish Angora into your family and you'll find it hard to resist picking them up and giving them endless cuddles. Thankfully, that won't bother this breed in the slightest! They tend to be somewhat needy and don't like to be left alone, preferring the constant companionship of their chosen humans, so frequent snuggles will be welcomed. Highly intelligent and social cats, they adore spirited play and like to climb, so offering plenty of perches that they can survey their kingdom from will be very much appreciated.
18. Ocicat
Looking very much like a big, wild cat with a much smaller body, the Occicat is a highly social kitty with a keen mind who tends to exhibit dog-like behaviors. Never one to miss out on greeting a visitor, this breed loves to be in on all the action, so be prepared for them to follow you from room to room supervising (and sometimes joining in on) everything you do. Super athletic and demanding of attention, this is not the cat to get if you want a quiet and calm life. But if you're happy with your home containing a little bundle of adorable chaos, the Occicat will reward you by being a delightfully unique companion.
19. Cornish Rex
A bright and high-energy breed, the Cornish Rex is known for its large ears and striking wedge-shaped head. Lean and athletic, you'll often find them galloping around the house in search of their next adventure. Curious and clever, they're a social breed that make very spirited companions, and their love of exploring means you'll want to ensure you cat-proof to prevent them from going places you don't want them to go!
20. Balinese
The Balinese (also sometimes called the Long-Haired Siamese) is a playful and devoted fluff ball who loves engaging in conversation with their chosen humans. Lithe and delicately built, they love to jump, so don't be surprised if you find them peering down at you from the top of your kitchen cabinets! It's important to remember that when you adopt a Balinese, what you're essentially getting is a Siamese, just with more fur. That means you can expect the same amount of vocalization and desire for company and attention, but if you're prepared for that then the Balinese will make for an adoring and intelligent partner in crime.
21. Norwegian Forest Cat
A gorgeous feline in both looks and temperament, the Norwegian Forest Cat actually began its life in England before traveling with Vikings and Crusaders to Norway where they lived in Norwegian forests for hundreds of years. Once domesticated, the Wegie, as they're affectionately known, went on to become the gentlest of giants and today, they make wonderfully calm and friendly family companions. Intelligent and alert, they crave human attention and affection but they're very quiet and undemanding, preferring to let people approach them rather than making a nuisance of themselves.
22. Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is an active and athletic breed that is happiest when being allowed to climb, jump and explore the world around them. While they're not opposed to the occasional cuddle, this independent breed prefers roaming their kingdom in search of their next big adventure. Don't mistake that for them not being affectionate though, they definitely are, especially with those they love and they're very friendly with strangers, other animals and children. Is clicker training for cats recommended? Well, the answer is a definite yes if you have a Turkish Van! They find training mentally stimulating and fun, and will love learning new tricks.
23. Bombay
With striking looks that make it resemble a miniature panther, the Bombay loves spending time with its owners and has a curious, active and affectionate nature. They have a delightfully mischievous streak and will think nothing of inventing ways to entertain themselves if left to their own devices. People-driven, they form very strong bonds with everyone in the family and because they are so gregarious and outgoing, they do best in homes where someone is around all day.
24. Egyptian Mau
A rare breed that dates back at least 3,000 years, the Egyptian Mau is one of the fastest runners of all domestic cat breeds and can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Because they are so intelligent, energetic and playful, they require a lot of stimulation each day to ensure they stay happy and healthy. While they are very affectionate and friendly with their family, they can be standoffish with strangers.
25. Oriental Shorthair
A svelte cat with elegant features, the Oriental Shorthair is part of the Siamese family and has all the wonderful traits you'd expect from a cat of this breed. They crave human attention and affection, and they love nothing more than to be helpful, so expect them to supervise pretty much everything that you do. The Oriental Shorthair is a very active cat with high levels of energy and curiosity and because of this, they do best when paired with an experienced owner who is willing to meet their needs for mental and physical stimulation and enrichment.
26. Savannah
A hybrid of a wild and a domestic cat, the Savannah is quite the sight to behold with its bold spotted or marbled appearance. Tall and slim with long legs, this breed is always alert and tends to be keen on hunting and chasing prey, so we wouldn't recommend them for homes with small pets. Lithe and agile with a love of water, don't be surprised if they join you in the bathtub or hop into the kitchen sink. Loyal to those they love, they tend to follow their humans from around the house. We do recommend socializing them well when they're kittens as they can be suspicious of strangers.
27. Burmilla
The Burmilla is a cross between the Chinchilla Persian and the Burmese which results in one very outgoing but laid-back cat. Known for their super soft coats and striking green eyes, they are playful, gentle and loyal and very engaged with their humans without being clingy or needy. Because they're so gregarious and love family life, they typically do well in homes with children and other cats. While big lovers of human interaction, they also have a nice independent streak which means they don't need to be constantly entertained.
28. American Curl
With ears that curl towards the back of their head, the American Curl is a sweet-natured little feline with a friendly and engaging personality. Staying youthful well into adulthood, they have a kitten-like energy that is a true joy to be around, and that, coupled with their high levels of intelligence, means they require lots of mental and physical stimulation each day in the form of puzzles and interactive toys. Super affectionate, they're very accepting of children and other pets, making them wonderful additions to the family.
29. Korat
Originating in Thailand more than 900 years ago, the Korat (pronounced koh-rat) has a sturdy and strong build and a lively and alert temperament. Intelligent, loyal and sociable, they tend to get on with both adults and children but they can be very demanding of attention and may become jealous if they feel that another animal (or person) is stealing the limelight! That being said, they are gorgeous and affectionate cats that tend to have a calm energy and are always up for a cuddle with the people they love.
30. Pixie-Bob
The Pixie-Bob makes for a great family pet, not least because they have incredibly sweet and affable personalities. If you're looking for a quiet cat, the Pixie-Bob makes a great choice as they rarely meow, however, they will make adorable chirrups on occasion and tend to engage in head butting when they want attention or affection. They are real adventure cats who like to be where their people are, so if you enjoy hiking, you'll be delighted to learn that your Pixie-Bob will be all too happy to accompany you!
31. Peterbald
Hailing from Russia, the Peterbald is an interactive and outgoing kitty who doesn't like to be left out of the family action. Wanting to involve themselves in every household activity, the Peterbald is a true Velcro cat and is most content when surrounded by the people they love. While naturally outgoing and friendly, they're also more than happy to settle down for a cuddle at the end of a long day — although because they tend towards the more vocal side, expect plenty of chatter from them.
32. American Bobtail
While they may have a wild and rugged appearance, don't let that fool you, the American Bobtail has been referred to as the Golden Retriever of cat breeds thanks to their affectionate and friendly nature. Sweet and docile, they make wonderful lap cats and do well in homes with older children. Forming deep bonds with their humans, the American Bobtail is very communicative, delightfully curious and wonderfully social.
