The 15 Most Popular Cat Breeds (by Ownership) in 2024

It’s no secret that cats are one of the most common pets on the planet, but what are the most popular types of cats? If the world of social media is to be believed, the most popular felines are either extremely large or uniquely small, often Siamese, and have a penchant for wearing shark costumes.

Of course, this isn’t entirely reflective of real-life cat owners or cats in general (who don’t even like costumes, allegedly). Thanks to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and their world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats, we know exactly which felines are most prevalent in today’s homes (according to registration data compiled by the CFA over the past year). Note that this list only looks at recognized cat breeds, not mixed breeds or broadly inclusive terms like Domestic Shorthair.

Ready to upgrade your feline trivia? Let’s count down the top 15 most popular cat breeds as of 2024.

15. Bengal

Though Bengals weren’t accepted as an official cat breed until the late 1980s, it didn’t take long for them to grown in popularity. These visually striking kitties are perhaps best known for their coat patterns, which feature rosettes reminiscent of wild leopards. Their fur is often golden or orange with black or brown spots, but they can come in other hues like charcoal. Of course, it’s not just their looks that have driven Bengals’ popularity — these cats are highly energetic, playful, and intelligent, often engaging in interactive play and requiring mental stimulation. This makes them a great choice for families with children.

14. Oriental

Lengthy and elegant in a way that can only be described as statuesque, the Oriental retains many of the characteristics of the Siamese cats it was originally bred from. But unlike its ancestor, the Oriental comes in many different coat colors and patterns. More notably, this cat has a pronounced snout at the end of its triangular head, giving it a distinctive, often exaggerated-looking nose. These cats come in both shorthair and longhair versions, which are sometimes listed as different breeds. However, the only differentiator is their coat length.

13. Norwegian Forest Cat

Lovers of large cat breeds are familiar with the Norwegian Forest Cat, also known as the "Wegie." This popular breed of domestic cat has roots in Norway as its name suggests, though it can now be found in homes all over the world. Known for its robust build, thick fur, and friendly demeanor, the Wegie tends to be right at home with both big families and individuals.

12. Russian Blue

One look at the Russian Blue, and it’s easy to see why these cats are so beloved. They have striking blue-gray coats that range from shimmery silver to clean steel. Often found with green or gray-green eyes, their facial features exude feline beauty. But what you can’t see from a photo is their gentle and quiet nature, leading to strong bonds with their owners. Russian Blues are known for being intelligent and playful as well but also enjoy relaxing in cozy spots. Their low-shedding fur also make them ideal for allergy sufferers, adding to their widespread appeal.

11. American Shorthair

The American Shorthair has long been a hit for its friendly, laid-back vibes. Cats of this popular breed are low-maintenance and come in a bunch of cool colors and patterns. They're super playful but also know how to chill, making them perfect for families and solo pet owners alike. They get along great with kids and other pets, adding to their charm. And yes, this breed is different from the Domestic Shorthair.

10. Sphynx

Arguably one of the most unique domestic cat breeds ever, the Sphynx is first and foremost known for its hairless appearance. Their exposed skin showcases their other impressive features, like large ears, angular faces, long legs, and large, soulful eyes. Despite their often jarring appearances, Sphynxes tend to be incredibly affectionate and loving creatures, preferring their days spent close to their humans. Their social nature makes them great companion animals, and they even tend to be friendly and playful with new people and other pets. As a bonus, their lack of shedding makes them more friendly to cat lovers with allergies or anyone who just prefers living in a fur-free home.

9. Siberian

Don’t be fooled by the long, luxurious fur — it’s the Siberian’s hypoallergenic qualities that have endeared it to families around the world. These fluffy cats are super affectionate and playful too, enabling them to get along well with kids and other pets. With roots in cold, harsh climates, they've even got a cool backstory as a tough, capable breed. These mellow felines are also among the largest domestic breeds in the world, which makes them even more lovable. No wonder cat lovers adore them!

8. Scottish Fold

Best known for their folded-over ears, Scottish Folds are, needless to say, adorable as all get-out. They also tend to have wide, expressive eyes on a rounded face, reminiscent of a cute, furry barn owl. Fittingly, the first Scottish Fold was a barn cat named Susie, who went on to have a couple of kittens with her unique folded ear gene. The breed has since become highly sought-after — even more so in recent years after celebrities like Taylor Swift have been spotted with their own.

Interestingly, not all cat organizations recognized the Scottish Fold as its own breed (though the CFA granted it this status in 1978). This is because some Scottish Fold kittens do not develop the trademark folded ears. They are referred to as “ Scottish Straights.”

7. Abyssinian

Believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, the Abyssinian is one of the oldest established domestic cat breeds. It nevertheless gets its name from, surprise surprise, Abyssinia (now Ethiopia), where it is believed to have been introduced by travelers or merchants. This gorgeous cat has large ears and a distinctive “ticked” coat that flaunts multiple complementary colors. Abyssinians joined the ranks of the world’s most popular cat breeds in the 2010s and have remained there ever since!

6. British Shorthair

Did you know the famous Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland is said to be a British Shorthair? That’s right! This kitty has a robust and round appearance, with plush, dense fur and distinctive chubby cheeks. But unlike the mischievous Cheshire, this cat has a friendly and easygoing temperament that makes it a great choice for families with children and other pets. British Shorthairs are also popular for their independence, often being content as with their own company as they are when around others.

5. Devon Rex

Celebrated for their large ears, slender bodies, and curly-ish coats, Devon Rex cats are visual standouts. They’re also popular thanks to their affectionate and social nature, making them excellent companions who enjoy being with people and, quite often, other pets. And they’re not just amiable — Devon Rex kitties tend to be highly intelligent and active, often engaging in playful antics that entertain their owners. Some view them as dog-like, probably because many have been reported to enjoy playing fetch.

4. Exotic

The CFA groups both Exotic Longhairs and Exotic Shorthairs together in this ranking, and that’s because they both technically belong to the same hybrid breed. Initially bred from Persian and Burmese cats and Persians with American Shorthairs, the Exotic has since become its own established breed after generations of development in the United States. Growing in popularity since the 1970s, the Exotic is renowned for its loving nature, soft coat, and adorable, flat face. They’re also considered lower maintenance than their ancestors, which has resulted in the moniker, “the lazy man’s Persian.”

3. Persian

With the “lazy man’s Persian” (see Exotic above) being so popular, of course the actual Persian is on this list! It’s no secret that many folks love Persian cats for their luxurious, long fur and distinctive, flat-faced appearance. But going beyond this endearing, doll-like look, it’s the Persian’s gentle and affectionate demeanor that really wins hearts. These cats are ideal companions for quieter households. Their relatively low energy levels make them well-suited for indoor living in a wide variety of homes, and their elegance and grace add a bonus touch of sophistication.

2. Maine Coon

Renowned as the “gentle giants” of the domestic cat world, it’s easy to see why the Maine Coon has stayed popular over the years. Like huge, cuddly teddy bears, these felines love a good snuggle with their humans. They’re low to medium energy too, which means they enjoy gentle, relaxed playtime rather than vigorous activity most days. Some Maine Coons can be easily trained to walk on a leash for additional exercise and adventure with their people, but this varies from pet to pet.

1. Ragdoll

The most popular cat breed as of 2024 is the Ragdoll! Maintaining this spot for the last several years, the Ragdoll has a ton to offer its human family members. Often considered puppy-like, the Ragdoll is known to follow its favorite humans around and want to be wherever they are. Though for as social as it is, this floofy cat gets its name from its overly relaxed tendencies — it tends to go limp like a child’s ragdoll when held. Originating in the 1960s, Ragdolls are also popular due to their striking appearance. Blue eyes and silky, semi-long fur complement their large, cuddly size.

Protect your cat’s health, regardless of breed

Whether you have one of the most popular cats in your family or another special feline friend, it’s important to make their health a top priority. This includes keeping up with routine veterinary checkups, vaccinations, and preventive care like monthly flea treatments. Though since you can’t predict every illness or accident, getting cat insurance is important for helping with unexpected veterinary expenses.

Love dogs too? Find out which canines have been the most popular by decade.