Cat Breed Selector

Family cats with easygoing, loyal temperaments are good companions for children. You'll also likely want to choose a breed that is sociable, adaptable to a variety of situations, and somewhat playful.Regardless which breed you select, it's important to gradually introduce your new furry feline to your family.

If your household already includes dogs or cats, you'll want to select a cat breed that is non-territorial and gets along well with others. Shy, skittish or aggressive breeds are not a good fit for a multiple-cat household. Choose a breed with an even temperament. You'll also likely want a cat that is easygoing and friendly.

Less active households are ideal for calm cats. Quiet, independent children will appreciate the mellow demeanor of quiet felines. With that in mind, calm cats would not be suitable for families with active, rambunctious kids. 

If you suffer from dander allergies but still want to make a feline part of your family, opt for cats that don't shed. Although no cat is a total non-shedder, there are some breeds that shed significantly less than others. Non-shedding cats typically are hypoallergenic, meaning their coats produce little to no dander.Cats that don't shed can either be hairless or have a short coat.

Cats that thrive on attention are often eager to please in return for your affection. They may show their friendliness orally by purring and meowing or physically by curling up in your lap. Regardless, friendly cat breeds thrive on human companionship. They are genuinely happy, sweet beings.

Cats that only need a little attention are good for busy families who are frequently on the go. Calm cats can be left alone for long periods of time, like while their owners are at work all day. However, this doesn't mean you can neglect them; low-maintenance cats still need love and attention just as other breeds do. 

Although cats are meticulous when it comes to being clean, they still can use some grooming assistance. As a general rule of thumb, the longer and thicker a cat's coat, the more grooming she requires. Long-haired cats typically need daily grooming to help maintain her healthy, shiny coat and reduce shedding and hairballs. Regular bathing is also important for cats that shed.

Despite being relatively clean animals, most cat breeds still need occasional grooming. Generally, cats with short hair only need to be brushed monthly in addition to occasional bathing. 
Some of the cat breeds that should be groomed monthly include the Abyssinian, Bengal, Ocicat and Toyger. 

Cats are considered very clean animals, but most breeds still require occasional grooming. Cats with medium hair generally need weekly brushing, plus occasional bathing. Regular grooming is important for the upkeep of your cat's coat. It also reduces shedding and hairballs.

Some cat breeds, especially those with short hair or those that are hairless, don't require much grooming. Cats that rarely need to be groomed usually don't shed much and can be hypoallergenic.

Long hair cats are characterized by their beautiful, soft coats. However, these silky, luxurious coats come with a price. You should expect to groom these long haired cats daily, and cats that shed are not a suitable option for people with allergies, as dander is retained in these cats' long coats.

If you're looking for a low-allergen cat, choose a cat that sheds minimally. People with dander allergies will appreciate hypoallergenic cats because their coats produce much less dander than other breeds. However, keep in mind that cats with minimal shedding will still need occasional grooming.

Cats that shed moderately typically have a coat that is medium in length. Regular grooming is key to keeping their moderately shedding coats healthy and shiny, as it reduces shedding and hairballs. 
Some of the most popular cat breeds with medium coats and moderate shedding include the Bengal, Maine Coon, Ragamuffin, Savannah, and Toyger. 

Short haired cats are a good choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of time grooming their cat's coat. However, short haired domestic cats should be brushed regularly to maintain a healthy coat and reduce shedding. 
Some of the most popular short hair cats include the British Shorthair, Burmese, Cornish Rex, and Devon Rex.  

Medium haired cats usually have a thick, double coat. Weekly grooming is important to help reduce shedding and maintain a beautiful, healthy coat. 
Notable choices for medium hair cats include the Abyssinian, American Bobtail, and Egyptian Mau.

If you're looking for a low-allergen cat, choose a cat that sheds minimally. People with dander allergies will appreciate hypoallergenic cats because their coats produce much less dander than other breeds. However, keep in mind that cats with minimal shedding will still need occasional grooming.