We’re pet experts – ten of the neediest cat breeds & the ones to avoid if you don’t want constant meowing
CHOOSING a pet can be a very difficult decision.
There are so many factors to take into account – with how much attention they need, what they’re like with other animals, how they react to strangers and how noisy they are just a few of them.
But for those considering getting a cat, there are some breeds to avoid if you aren’t keen on a needy feline joining your family.
And if noise is one of your pet peeves, you might want to steer clear of a couple of breeds known for their constant meowing.
To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the top 10 neediest (and sometimes noisiest) cat breeds from pet experts at Purina and The Spruce Pets.
Ragdoll
“Recognised as one of the friendliest cat breeds, Ragdolls love nothing more than to spend time with their owner even if that means following you around when you’re too busy for hugs,” the experts at Purina said.
Read more Pet stories
These cats were bred to be affectionate companions, and often display similar traits to a puppy – with some people even training them to play fetch.
But they’re probably not the best cat to have if you don’t want a needy breed, as they will spend as much time as humanly possible with their owner.
Burmese
The Burmese is one of the most attention-seeking cat breeds.
“There is only so much attention you can give a cat on a daily basis and the Burmese will take all of it,” the Purina pros explained.
Most read in Fabulous
“They will want to know what’s in your cupboards, sit on your shoulder while you’re browsing the Internet and poke their head between you and the TV.”
If you’re not keen on giving up some of your privacy for your pet then maybe consider another breed.
Maine Coon
Needing attention in a slightly different way is the Maine Coon cat.
“The Maine Coon is a very intelligent cat so keep the toy box topped up with plenty of puzzle toys,” the Purina experts continued.
“Nothing spells fun for these kittens more than a good mental challenge.”
So if you don’t have the time to do puzzles with your pet, then the Maine Coon probably isn’t for you.
Siamese
We spoke earlier about the breeds to avoid if you don’t want a noisy pet – and the Siamese is at the very top of that list.
“If you decide to bring a Siamese cat into your life, prepare to have long conversations with your vocal kitty,” The Spruce Pets pros said.
They’re known for the amount of noise they make, with their loud meows often compared to a baby’s cries.
In addition, the Siamese cat is “exceptionally social”.
“Be aware that they are not too keen on being left home alone – they need to be with family or at least with another fellow Siamese to be happy kittens,” the Purina expert advised.
Scottish Fold
Another cat that isn’t keen on being left alone is the Scottish Fold.
“Scottish folds are affectionate and social and don’t like being left alone,” the Spruce Pets warned.
“So if you’re out of the house a lot, this may not be the breed for you.
“But if you have extra time to spare for your cat, you might have found your match.”
FABULOUS BINGO: Get a £20 bonus & 30 free spins when you spend £10 today
Sphynx
If you’re after a unique-looking cat, then it’s highly likely you’ll consider getting a Sphynx.
These hairless cats are “generally cold and need a source of heat to keep them comfortable”.
“Sphynxes love humans primarily for their body heat,” The Spruce Pets said.
“Some people say that owning a sphynx is like owning a living, breathing hot water bottle.
“They’ll cuddle with you beneath the covers at night and perch on your lap during the day.”
Tonkinese
If you want a cat that’s less vocal than a Siamese cat but as affectionate as a Burmese, then the Tonkinese could be your perfect match.
Breeders created the Tonkinese from “crossing the Siamese and Burmese breeds for the best characteristics of both”.
“Affectionately called Tonks, these cats love their humans. They are known for being friendly, active, and exceptionally affectionate.
“They love attention and will demand it,” the Spruce Pets pros explained.
Birman
A Birman cat is a good choice if you’re looking for an affectionate cat, as they’re friendly with everyone.
They’re also widely known as being suitable pets for families with children, thanks to their gentle demeanour.
But if you have other pets in the house, it might be worth thinking about another breed instead of the Birman, as they can also be very affectionate with other animals, such as dogs in the home.
And that’s not always the best thing if you have a dog who isn’t a lover of affection.
Abyssinian
Another cat that you’ll find stuck to you for most of the day is the Abyssinian.
“The Aby will stick within petting distance of their owner no matter what,” The Spruce Pets experts said.
“You’ll find them joining you in the kitchen when you’re doing the cooking, perched on your shoulder when you’re working from home and trying to snuggle next to you on a movie night.”
Himalayan
A Himalayan cat is needy in a different way.
“They adore the attention and affection of their owners, have sweet, temperate personalities, and are very playful,” The Spruce Pets said.
Read More on The Sun
Before warning: “If you’re looking for a low-maintenance cat, however, a Himalayan may not be the right pick for you.
“Their long, silky coats require daily care.”