6 most affectionate cat breeds

<p>Let’s be honest: cats have a bit of a reputation. They often seem aloof, and we’re not even sure they like us half the time. They don’t greet us at the door when we come home, and they seem downright moody and uninterested in us – unless we’re opening a can of food. But not all cats are like that. (Really!) Some cats are shamelessly affectionate and rarely leave the side of their favourite human. Teresa Keiger, a judge with the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) who has lived with and shown several cat breeds, is keenly aware of the feline psyche and which breeds are the most affectionate. If you’re looking for a cat who loves to cuddle, these breeds are your best bets.</p> <p><strong>1. Ragdoll</strong></p> <p>You’ll never hear, “She’s just not that into you,” from someone who has a Ragdoll cat. Female – and male – Ragdolls tend to be more interested in their humans than some other breeds of cats. The mutual fondness goes both ways. It’s easy to get lost in their intoxicating blue eyes and glorious fluffy coat. Underneath that fluffy coat is a hefty cat: males weigh up to 10kg. “They’re a large cat, so while they might not prefer to be on top of you, they certainly really want to be with their people,” says Keiger.</p> <p><strong>2. European Burmese</strong></p> <p>Keiger says the European Burmese has the same big, loving personality as its American cousin – just in a slightly different package. Appearance-wise, the body of the European Burmese is slightly longer with soft curves, as opposed to the American breed, which is more well-rounded. Plus, the introduction of the red gene gives the European Burmese a wider variety of colours than its cousin. Both types of Burmese, however, are lovers and snugglers who want nothing more than to be your adoring companions.</p> <p><strong>3. Russian Blue</strong></p> <p>Talk about a head-turner! The Russian Blue’s plush silvery blue coat and piercing green eyes are positively gorgeous. And though it seems to emit a ‘look but don’t touch’ vibe, Keiger says not to let its aloofness toward strangers fool you. The Russian Blue is acutely perceptive and knows if someone is a friend or foe. “Once a Russian Blue considers you a friend, you’ll never have an empty lap again,” she says. “They bond completely with their owners.”</p> <p><strong>4. Birman</strong></p> <p>One look and you’re done. Those wistful blue eyes, that cute button nose, and the gorgeous silky coat – how could you not want to cuddle? Luckily, the Birman is totally up for that and will beckon you to the sofa for snuggle time. One of the most famous Birmans out there? Choupette, who was owned by Karl Lagerfeld and acted as the late designer’s muse for a line of feline-inspired accessories. Rumour has it that Choupette had two personal assistants to tend to her every need.</p> <p><strong>5. Maine Coon Cat</strong></p> <p>The Maine Coon was first recognised as a specific breed in Maine, where it was named the official cat of the state. That’s a big honour for a giant-sized cat. According to Purina Maine Coons generally weigh between 4 – 8kg, and they can be almost 100cm long! But despite their size, they still think they’re tiny kitties. “They truly have no idea of how big they are as they try to ease into your lap or your bed,” says Keiger, whose own Maine Coon acts as her armrest on the sofa every evening. Plus, they are very laid-back and easy going, she adds. Oddly enough, they even like water and are noted for their raccoon-like ability to scoop up food and water with their paws.</p> <p><strong>6. American Shorthair</strong></p> <p>If you’re looking for a family-oriented feline who loves to cuddle in your lap but isn’t always in your face, the American Shorthair may be for you. An added bonus: these adorable cats are also proficient mousers. “The American Shorthair is another breed that’s easy to live with and good in an active household,” says Keiger. “Nothing much bothers them, and they enjoy hanging out with their humans.” Shorthairs can live 15 years or longer when they’re in a nurturing home and eat a quality diet.</p> <p><em>Source:<a href="https://www.rd.com/advice/most-affectionate-cat-breeds/"> RD.com</a></em></p> <p><em>Written by Lisa Marie Conklin. This article first appeared in </em><a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/pets/12-most-affectionate-cat-breeds"><em>Reader’s Digest</em></a><em>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, </em><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRA93V"><em>here’s our best subscription offer.</em></a></p>

Family & Pets