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Best calm cat breeds

Each cat below made the list on a phrase from its own Cat Fanciers' Association profile: docile, sedate, even-tempered, mellow or devoted but not intrusive.

The Maine Coon is not on it, because its gentle nature comes with an active one. Its guide is at the foot of this page.

Calm cat breeds for quiet homes

  • Cream and gray Ragdoll curled up asleep on a white floor

    Ragdoll

    The personality is docile, placid and affectionate. The cat enjoys play but does not insist on it. Aggression is rare.

  • Gray British Shorthair lying with its eyes closed on a woven mat

    British Shorthair

    A cat that supervises from across the room instead of landing in laps. It dislikes being carried and may withdraw when children get loud.

  • Cream and white Persian cat with blue eyes, a flat face and a long thick coat, held in a person’s arms

    Persian

    Persians keep their feet on the ground. They rarely climb drapes or raid counters. They rank among the easiest breeds to train, with many learning their names.

  • Birman cat with blue eyes and cream and white fur sitting on a dark cushion

    Birman

    The Birman is very helpful and often joins household tasks. It is patient and tolerant but moderately active.

  • Gray and white Exotic Shorthair with a flat face and yellow eyes beside a window

    Exotic

    Built in the 1950s from Persians crossed with American Shorthairs. It is devoted but not intrusive, with frequent purring and rare meowing.

Care and health notes from CFA

BreedGroomingFull sizeHealth note
RagdollSteel comb once or twice a weekAround age four, males 20 pounds or moreHCM found in the breed and tested for. Prone to obesity.
British ShorthairWeekly comb or brush, plus claw clippingAbout three years, males about 17 poundsNo breed-specific concerns listed. Many lines carry blood type B.
PersianSteel or Teflon-coated comb to prevent matsWeight not givenPolycystic kidney disease shortened lives in the early 2000s and is now controlled by testing.
BirmanWeekly combingAbout three yearsBreeders test for HCM.
ExoticWeekly combing, heavy seasonal sheddingWeight not givenNo specific condition listed. Genetic screening is stressed.

More guides

The Maine Coon breed guide covers the gentle but active giant.

Sources