Calm cats are great for people looking for a pet to chill out with. If you want a lovable but low-maintenance cat, then it’s worth exploring the different breeds of calm felines.
If you’re looking for a cat to Netflix and chill with, we’ve got you covered. Below is a list of the calmest cat breeds who possess a laid-back temperament and will love lounging on the sofa or curling up in bed with you.
Which Cat Breeds Are The Calmest?
How calm a cat is ultimately comes down to its personality and environment; however, some breeds are more likely to adapt to a relaxed and chill environment, which we’ll explore below.
Calm and less active cat breeds are perfect for families with young children, people who live in small apartments, older people, those who like a quiet and serene environment, or want an easygoing companion.
11 Of the Calmest Cat Breeds
These are the calmest cat breeds listed in no particular order. So if you’re looking for a new cat, you may want to consider adding one of these to your household.
Birman
The Birman is the sacred cat of Burma and one of the calmest cat species you will come across. They have adaptive personalities and are happy to share your attention with other pets and children in the house.
They will love to chase the family dog around and are incredibly patient with children. Birmans are an intelligent breed and easy to train; they won’t run off when you have visitors over; instead, they will approach your guests to say hello. The Birman is a great family pet and adores giving and receiving lots of love.
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular family breed thanks to its beauty and calm personality. This cat is famous for its mellow and undemanding nature and is happy to laze around next to you. They often prefer to observe you from a distance and would rather curl up next to you than on your lap.
This calm demeanor is an attractive quality in a low-maintenance cat, but you must carefully ensure it doesn’t turn to laziness. British Shorthairs can be slower to reach maturity than the average cat – taking between three and five years to grow into adults. But once your Shorthair warms to you, you’ll have a lifelong, loyal companion.
Chartreux
The Chartreux is a gentle and attentive companion with a tranquil nature. French folklore suggests breeders selectively crossed quiet cats to create the Chartreux who wouldn’t disturb the monks in the Carthusian Order monasteries.
This breed makes the perfect companion for first-time pet owners as they are easy to look after and friendly towards humans. Chartreux cats are undemanding, calm, and independent cats who will love having your attention but will never demand it.
Exotic Shorthair
This rare breed is a cross between a Persian and American Shorthair that people often call the “lazy man’s Persian.” This is because their short hair makes their grooming needs much lower.
Like their Persian ancestors, the Exotic Shorthair is a docile and quiet cat who loves to cuddle and makes the perfect family pet.
Himalayan
The Himalayan is a calm cat breed that prefers to live in a quiet home environment. This sweet, affectionate breed can be picky about their companions, but once they bond with you, they’ll be happy to Netflix and chill.
This breed is more active than the Persian and will happily play a game of tag or fetch, but they spend a lot of time quietly relaxing. If you’re looking for a cat who will enjoy the occasional game but more often just laze about, the Himalayan could be the cat for you.
Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is one of the oldest cat breeds, appearing in Japan as early as the 6th century. It is a loving, sweet, and highly intelligent breed that loves to play with people. The Bobtail is a social cat who thrives in the company of others.
They have a soft, sweet voice which makes them almost impossible to say no, and they are experts at persuading their owners to give them what they want.
Thanks to its laid-back nature and adaptability, this breed is easy to live with. They will happily slot into your daily routine as long as you make time for games and cuddles with them. They will love to be close to you, happily curling up on your lap or snuggling next to you in bed.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are among the largest cat species, weighing up to 25 pounds, but don’t let their size put you off. These cats are gentle giants with a laid-back, friendly nature, making them the perfect human companion.
The Maine Coon dates back to the farms of the earlier settlers and has had a wealth of time to get to know and understand humans. It’s this quality that makes them the perfect pet.
They are great with children as they’ll encourage them to get some exercise by playing fetch or catch games, and they have an impressive amount of patience when faced with boisterous children.
Persian
Persians are a fluffy ball of cuddles that like nothing more than curling up on the laps of their owners to enjoy some attention and cuddles. On the whole, this breed is quiet and well behaved, and while they love displays of affection, they are happy being independent too.
This breed is visually stunning with long beautiful coats and a range of colors, and you’ll fall in love with them at first sight. With a Persian, that love will only grow as you get to know their cheerful and loving personalities. As long as you love them, they will remain a loyal friend.
Ragamuffin
The Ragamuffin is a big cat with an even bigger heart. People often compare these cats to teddy bears thanks to their cuddly nature, and they don’t mind if you want to carry them around all day.
They are a calm, agreeable, and adaptable breed that is unlikely to meow excessively or demonstrate any aggressive behaviors. Instead, this feline will happily wear a leash to accompany you on a walk before coming home and cuddling up on your lap.
Ragdoll
Like their name, the Ragdoll is a gentle, laidback cat who will lay in your arms like a ragdoll. Considered one of the most docile cat breeds, Ragdoll’s make an excellent lap cat and will happily cuddle up on you in the evening.
These cats aren’t lazy, though, and they’re equally happy to play a game of fetch with you if you call them. Ragdoll cats love it when you give them attention, but they are independent enough not to demand it from you and will happily spend some time alone.
Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new breed, making its first appearance in Montana in 1987. Covered with soft, curly locks, this cat’s coat resembles a mini sheep.
They are a docile and relaxed breed that loves cuddles and attention. And this sociability means that they thrive in an environment where another pet is present, especially if you’re away for large portions of the day.
Selkirk Rex Cats can be a bit silly at times, but they aren’t often hyperactive and are great with children.
Final Thoughts
This list brings together some of the calmest and most gentle cat breeds for you to choose your perfect pet. But, any cat’s temperament will vary based on its personality and not just its breed. Ask the breeders or carers for any signs of character they’ve picked up, and do your research to ensure that the cat is right for you.
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