Calm Cat Breeds
If you want a relaxed cat who is happy to lounge, these are some of the calmest breeds. Every cat is an individual, but these tend to be mellow.
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1. Ragdoll
Famously floppy, gentle and happy to be held.
Large · Usually 12 to 15 years
Read the Ragdoll guide → -
2. British Shorthair
Easy-going and calm, happy beside you rather than on you.
Medium to large · Usually 12 to 17 years
Read the British Shorthair guide → -
3. Persian
Quiet, sweet and happiest in a peaceful home, though needing daily grooming.
Medium · Usually 10 to 15 years
Read the Persian guide → -
4. Exotic Shorthair
The Persian’s calm nature with an easier coat.
Medium · Often 12 to 15 years
Read the Exotic Shorthair guide → -
5. Ragamuffin
A big, soft, patient lap cat.
Large · Often 12 to 16 years
Read the Ragamuffin guide → -
6. British Longhair
The British Shorthair’s calm nature in a fluffier coat.
Medium to large · Usually 12 to 17 years
Read the British Longhair guide → -
7. Selkirk Rex
A patient, cuddly teddy bear with curls.
Medium to large · Often 12 to 15 years
Read the Selkirk Rex guide → -
8. Birman
Gentle, sociable and good with children.
Medium to large · Usually 12 to 16 years
Read the Birman guide →
Breed is only part of the story: every cat is an individual, and most cats in the UK are moggies. Meet the cat before you decide, and think about rescue cats too. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
What is the calmest cat breed?
The Ragdoll and British Shorthair are often listed among the calmest, but individual cats vary a lot.
Are calm cats good for flats?
Often yes, but any cat needs play, a scratching post and somewhere to climb.
