If you’re a cat owner considering expanding your feline family, it’s essential to find breeds that thrive in a multi-cat household. While cats have a reputation for being independent, many breeds enjoy the company of their fellow felines.
Social and adaptable cats can form meaningful bonds with other cats, creating a harmonious and lively home environment. From the affectionate, laid-back Ragdoll cat to the playful Abyssinian, some cats are natural at making friends with their kind.
Whether you’re looking to adopt a second cat or simply curious about friendly feline breeds, exploring these sociable and intelligent cats can help you make the best choice for your growing fur family.
Is Your Cat Ready for a New Bestie?
If you’re looking to expand your feline family, consider your current cat’s personality. Does your kitty need a playful partner, a gentle companion, or a calm confidant? Whether it’s the social Cornish Rex, the sweet Exotic Shorthair, the Bengal’s wild charm, or the sophisticated Russian Blue, one of these breeds could be your cat’s next best friend!
Remember: No matter how perfect these breeds sound, introducing a new cat always requires patience and understanding. But if it goes well, you could have a house full of whiskered besties, creating memories (and messes) together!
Cat Breeds That Are Good with Other Cats
1. Cornish Rex
Personality Snapshot: Playful, curious, sociable, and always up for a good game of chase.
Imagine a cat that’s a blend of a comedian, a gymnast, and a mischievous toddler—that’s the Cornish Rex! With their curly, velvety coat and oversized ears, they always seem ready for action.
If cats had TikTok accounts, the Cornish Rex would be going viral for their goofy antics and endless energy.
These social butterflies thrive in multi-cat households because they genuinely enjoy companionship. They’re the life of the party, making friends out of even the grumpiest of cats.
Have a feline who prefers to brood under the couch? The Cornish Rex will be the one dangling a toy in their face until they give in to playtime. They’re not just companions—they’re kitty cheerleaders, always ready to brighten the mood.
Fun Fact: Cornish Rex cats don’t just tolerate other cats—they actively recruit them into their shenanigans! If you hear the 3 a.m. zoomies, it’s probably your Cornish Rex leading a conga line of confused but amused housemates.
2. Birman
Personality Snapshot: Gentle, loving, patient, and peace-loving—like a cat that practices yoga.
If there were a feline UN ambassador, it would be the Birman. Known for their gentle, affectionate nature, Birmans are the epitome of “can’t we all just get along?” With their enchanting blue eyes and luxurious, silky coat, they radiate a sense of calm.
They’re the type of cats that would bake cookies for the neighborhood if they had opposable thumbs.
Birmans are perfect for households where harmony is key—they aren’t fans of drama. They’re generous with their affection and often extend that warmth to their fellow cats, making them wonderful companions.
If one of your cats is having a dramatic meltdown, the Birman will be there, calmly purring and possibly offering a comforting nuzzle.
Fun Fact: Birmans were once considered sacred temple cats in Burma—so they come with a natural sense of grace… and maybe a touch of royal entitlement to your warm lap.
3. Russian Blue
Personality Snapshot: Intelligent, calm, thoughtful, and quietly affectionate. The type who’d lend a paw but never demand attention.
Russian Blues may seem reserved at first glance, but they’re just introverts who need a little time to adjust. Think of them as the cool, sophisticated roommate—quiet but fiercely loyal once they trust you.
These graceful cats with their silvery-blue coats and emerald-green eyes are like the James Bond of the cat world—charming yet composed. Russian Blues appreciate a low-drama environment, making them ideal companions for cats who are respectful and laid-back.
As per WebMD, some people may find Russian Blue aloof, but their owners often say that they simply like to evaluate a situation before getting involved. Despite this cautious approach, Birman remains playful, not just as a kitten but well into adulthood.
While they may not initiate the party, they’re the chill friend you can always count on. If there’s a squabble, the Russian Blue will quietly observe from a distance, pondering if it’s worth stepping in to restore peace.
Fun Fact: Russian Blues are known for their “smiles” due to the unique shape of their mouths. So even if they’re silently judging the younger cats’ antics, they always look supportive.
4. Ragdoll
Personality Snapshot: Gentle, affectionate, sociable, and ready to cuddle. The ultimate “Netflix and chill” buddy.
If there were a feline award for “Most Chill,” the Ragdoll, a recognized breed would take its paws down. These fluffy, blue-eyed beauties are the sweet, gentle giants of the cat world.
Named for their tendency to go completely limp when you pick them up, Ragdolls are as relaxed as a cat can get. They’re the type to drape themselves over the couch, over you, and over any cat who will tolerate their snuggly tendencies.
Ragdolls are known for their affectionate, easygoing nature. They don’t just coexist with other cats—they actively bond with them.
They’re often found grooming their feline friends or curling up for a shared nap, making them the ideal companion for households with multiple cats.
Fun Fact: Ragdolls are known as the “puppy cats” of the feline world because they’ll follow you from room to room like a loyal shadow. Imagine being adored by a fluffy, floppy shadow all day!
5. Exotic Shorthair
Personality Snapshot: Affectionate, mellow, playful, and a bit of a snuggle bug. Perfect for a low-key, cozy vibe.
If a Persian decided to simplify their beauty routine, you’d get the Exotic Shorthair. These adorable, round-faced fluffballs are known for their teddy bear appearance and calm, easygoing temperament.
Exotics have the same loving nature as Persians but with a playful twist—they’re a little less “royalty” and a little more “class clown.”
Exotic Shorthairs are an adaptable breed and thrive in multi-cat houses. They love to lounge but can be surprisingly playful when the mood strikes.
They’ll engage in gentle play with fellow cats but won’t mind if another kitty steals their sunspot—there’s enough warmth to share!
Fun Fact: According to the International Cat Association, Exotics are known as the “lazy man’s Persian” because they have the same affectionate, gentle demeanor without extensive grooming demands. Just brush them occasionally, and they’re happy campers!
6. Japanese Bobtail
Personality Snapshot: Energetic, curious, charming, and respectful. The kind of cat that can coax a grumpy cat into a game of chase.
The Japanese Bobtail is like that cool, artsy friend who’s always a little quirky but everyone adores. With their signature pom-pom tail and lively personality, these cats bring a unique flair to the household. In Japan, they’re considered symbols of good luck—so adding one to your home could be a double win!
According to Hill’s Pet, while Bobtail cats generally get along well with other cat breeds, they prefer the company of other Bobtails. They have been described as “clannish” due to their tendency to form long-lasting friendships with their littermates.
Japanese Bobtails are social butterflies. They’re curious, energetic, and love interactive play. They’re great at respecting other cats’ boundaries, which makes them adaptable to various feline personalities.
If your current cat is a bit shy or reserved, a Japanese Bobtail can gently encourage them to open up without being too pushy.
Fun Fact: In Japanese folklore, the “Maneki-Neko” or “beckoning cat” with a raised paw is modeled after the Japanese Bobtail—inviting good fortune into homes and businesses.
7. Persian
Personality Snapshot: Calm, dignified, loving, and a bit of a couch potato. Ideal for cats who appreciate a serene, cozy environment.
When you think of a Persian cat, you probably imagine a luxurious, long-haired beauty lounging on a velvet cushion.
While they certainly enjoy the finer things in life, Persian cats are surprisingly laid-back and affectionate. They might look like royalty, but they don’t have a diva attitude—they’re more like the aristocrats who are happy to share their castle.
Persian cats are gentle and tolerant, making them great companions for other cats. They appreciate a quiet, harmonious home where everyone respects nap time.
While they may not engage in boisterous play, they enjoy companionship and the occasional cuddle session.
Fun Fact: Persian cats have a distinctive “smushed” face that makes them appear perpetually unimpressed—perfect for when other cats try to invade their personal space but rest assured, they’re usually unbothered.
8. Abyssinian
Personality Snapshot: Active, curious, extroverted, and always ready for a game of chase. A natural leader in any feline crew.
Imagine a cat that’s always on the go, curious about everything, and just a little bit nosy. That’s the Abyssinian!
According to Britannica, the Abyssinian is a breed of domestic cat, likely of Egyptian origin, and is considered to approximate the sacred cat of ancient Egypt more closely than any other living cat. Their striking appearance and history contribute to this connection.
Known for their sleek, ticked, short coat and regal appearance, Abyssinians are the athletes of the cat world. If they had thumbs, they’d probably be texting all the other cats in the neighborhood, organizing a game of tag.
Abyssinians thrive in homes with other playful cats because they love having a partner in crime. They’re not the type to sit still for long—they’d rather be scaling the highest bookshelf or racing through cat tunnels. Other cats often find their energy infectious, and before you know it, they’re all involved in a high-speed chase.
Fun Fact: Abyssinians are thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds, possibly descended from the cats worshipped in ancient Egypt. Cleopatra might have had an Abyssinian pouncing on her papyrus scrolls!
9. Bengal
Personality Snapshot: Bold, curious, athletic, and just a little mischievous. They’re the life of any feline party!
With their leopard-like spots and glittering coats, Bengals are the “wild child” of domestic cats. But don’t let their exotic look fool you—they’re sweet, affectionate, and love a good playmate.
They are considered energetic cats, and if left to their own devices, they might turn your curtains into a jungle gym.
Bengal cats get along well with children or other active, playful cats. If your current cat is a bit of a couch potato, the Bengal might initially seem like a whirlwind.
However, Bengals are incredibly social and adapt well when given enough playtime and stimulation. They’re the type to start a game of tag and then wait for their buddy to catch up.
Fun Fact: Bengals love water! Don’t be surprised if your Bengal joins you for a bath or splashes in their water bowl—other cats may find it weird, but hey, it’s part of their charm.
10. Maine Coon
Personality Snapshot: Extremely affectionate, patient, playful but gentle pets. Perfect for a multi-cat household that needs a calm, balanced presence.
The Maine Coon cat is the kind-hearted giant of the cat world. With their impressive size, tufted ears, and luxurious, flowing coats, they might look a little intimidating—but their personalities are as soft as their fur.
Being affectionate, gentle, and patient, Maine Coon remain playful making them excellent companions for other cats.
Maine Coon cats have a playful side but are never overly aggressive. They’re more likely to “boop” a fellow cat on the nose than start a full-blown wrestling match. Their easygoing nature makes them adaptable, whether they’re befriending a playful kitten or a reserved senior cat.
Fun Fact: Maine Coon cats are often known as the “dogs of the cat world” because of their friendly, loyal nature. Don’t be surprised if they try to follow you from room to room or greet guests at the door like a furry doorman.
Conclusion
While cats are often seen as naturally solitary animals, several affectionate cat breeds make great companions for both humans and other pets. Siamese cats, known for their playful and curious disposition, are among the best cat breeds for multi-cat households. These lap cats enjoy the company of other animals and can adapt well to living around the house with other pets.
Additionally, other breeds like Ragdolls, Maine Coons, and American Shorthairs are wonderful companions known for their friendly and social nature. Cats that love interaction and are great family pets can thrive in environments with other cats, making them excellent choices for households seeking to expand their feline family.
