Although all cats are, well cats, yet there are differences in breeds and each cat breed has a unique set of qualities. Some cat breeds are easier to handle than others. While some are gentle, cuddly and very social, others are rambunctious and always ready to play or pounce. Some can be aloof or somewhat reserved, and prefer less holding or petting. Also, the amount of shedding is dependent upon the breed, rather than on the length of the fur.
Some breeds are more appropriate for certain age groups or personality types. All domestic cats are usually appropriate for adults, but different types of cats can be better suited to one individual's lifestyle than another's. This leads to your personal preferences, ask your self what attributes you want in a cat and look at breeds with those characteristics.
The amount of affection a cat shows depends upon breed type, upbringing and genetic makeup. A cat's behavior towards humans depends to a certain extent on the kind of first contact a cat has with humans, but also on the cat's personality. Socialization is very important for kittens to become well-balanced companions as adult cats. But even with plenty of socialization, some types of cats do tend to be less affectionate than others.
There are some generalities that can be applied to pedigree cat types. Here are some general guidelines, but be sure to see the individual breed for more information:
| Personality and Behavioral traits: | Cat Breeds: |
| Undemanding Quiet "lap cats" | Birman, Bombay, Chartreux, Havana Brown, Nebelung, Russian Blue, Scottish Fold, Selkirk Rex |
| Easy going, friendly cats Good with children | American Shorthair, British Shorthair, Maine Coon, Manx, Norwegian Forest Cat, Ragdoll, Scottish Fold, Snowshoe, Turkish Van |
| Active cats, people oriented Attention loving, and can be demanding | American Curl, Balinese, Burmese, Colorpoint Shorthair, Javanese, Korat, Siamese, Singapura |
| Active and athletic cats | Abyssiinian, Bengal, Ocicat, Somali |
| Grooming Intensive cats | Himalayan, Persian, Turkish Angora |
