Fluffy cats just hit different. Not only do they possess all of the sanctimonious-yet-cool qualities all cats have (the staring, the skulking, the perpetual ennui), their fluffy coat makes them feel extra cozy and snuggly — truly, an iconic duo if there ever was one!
Can’t figure out which fluffy cat breeds are your favorites? Here, Teresa Keiger, editor of Cat Fanciers’ Association‘s (CFA) Cat Talk magazine and a CFA Allbreed judge; Kendra Martin, owner of Bed and Biscuit boarding and grooming in Kingston, Illinois; and other cat lovers weigh on in their favorite fluffy cat breeds. These cuties are impossible not to pet.
10 of the fluffiest cat breeds
1. Norwegian Forest Cat
This affectionate woodland creature has an extra-fluffy double coat. When your cat is this fuzzy, regular grooming is a must to avoid matted fur. Martin recommends contacting a reputable groomer: “They have equipment that can safely remove the mat without hurting or cutting the cat.”
2. Exotic Shorthair
Don’t let the “shorthair” name fool you. Their fur is soft and dense. Even so, it requires less grooming than that of other fluffy cats.
3. Somali
“Have you ever wanted a pet that looks like a long-haired fox?” asks Keiger. Then, she says, the active and friendly Somali breed is for you. She notes the rich softness of its coat and says “a good combing out is generally all of the maintenance that fluffy cat breed needs.”
4. Maine Coon
This large cat breed is very active. You’ll have to keep an eye on them, as Martin discovered when a client brought in their cat after it snuck outside. The cat was so covered in burrs, says Martin, and she had to shave him down. Probably pretty awkward for the poor usually-fluffy kitty.
5. Ragdoll
This very affectionate fluffy cat breed is perfect for families with young children because of its playfulness. Ragdolls will follow you around the house and like to flop down on the floor, as the name suggests.
6. Birman
“The Birman has a unique coat in that it’s a single coat and doesn’t mat or tangle,” explains Keiger. “This makes it very easy to maintain, although it will still require combing to remove the dead hair.”
7. British Shorthair
Like the Exotic Shorthair, this cat breed has a short, dense coat reminiscent of a plush stuffed animal. It has a patient, loyal nature and doesn’t mind being alone, which makes it a good choice for busy families.
8. Japanese Bobtail (longhair)
The longhair version of this cat breed is a favorite of Keiger. “Their tail is a series of fused vertebrae that kink and turn, making a little pom-pom,” she says, noting the cat’s easy to live with because of its loving nature.
9. Siberian
This rare fluffy cat breed sports a luxurious coat that requires relatively low maintenance, and it has a calm yet energetic temperament. Siberians like to play in water, so get them accustomed to baths early on!
10. Persian
Routinely one of the most popular fluffy cat breeds, the Persian cat is a top choice for its long-flowing and luxurious coat but also because their quiet, melodious voices are pleasant and sweet. A charming pet for the whole family.
