Best cats for first-time owners
Easygoing, forgiving and undemanding — the breeds that make a gentle introduction to cat ownership, ranked by temperament and how little they ask of a new owner.
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The ranked shortlist
Hand-picked by our editors using breed trait profiles — scores are out of 5.
1. Ragdoll
5/5The cat that goes limp in your arms and would rather be underfoot than up high.
2. British Shorthair
5/5Round eyes, round cheeks, and a firm four-on-the-floor policy about being picked up.
3. Birman
4/5Pointed like a Siamese, calm like nothing else, and wearing four white gloves.
4. Russian Blue
4/5Quiet, plush and cautious — a cat that earns its way to you rather than leaping into your arms.
5. Maine Coon
4/5The dog of the cat world — huge, shaggy, and far too friendly to sulk.
What makes a good beginner cat
The easiest first cats are even-tempered, tolerant of a learning owner, and predictable rather than highly strung or intensely demanding. It helps to avoid the extremes at first — the most vocal, high-energy or needy breeds — until you have found your feet. Whatever you choose, an adult cat from a shelter is often the gentlest start of all, because its personality is already known.