What Is the Most Common Cat Breed?

Top Cat Breeds in the U.S.

When asked, many United States-based cat owners do not know the breed of their cat in the same way that most dog owners do. This is because 95% of the cats in the US are classified as “domestic shorthair” or “domestic longhair”. This is basically a fancy way of saying, “we don’t know this cat’s ancestral lineage, so it is just a domesticated cat.” This is also caused by interbreeding among breeds, and is another way of saying “mixed breed”.
However, for the other 5% found in the U.S., are purebred or pedigreed cats. This means that their ancestral lineage can be traced and we know exactly what breeds were mixed to create this cat. But, the question is, what is the most popular or common pedigreed cat breed in the US?

Persian

Ranking in at number 2 most common cat under domestic shorthair and domestic longhair is this high maintenance kitty. Persian are beautiful longhaired cats that have a reputation for being calm and sensitive. Their long, fine fur calls for daily brushing which is a great bonding experience for their owners.

Maine Coon

Next on the list, the largest of the cat breeds. Maine Coons can weigh anywhere from 8 to 18 lbs and on average are 3.3 ft. long. Even with their extra-large size, they are playful and gentle creatures. They are also known for being quite smart. Often seen following their owner around, they make great farm cats. However, they are also great with children and dogs, making them an ideal family pet as well.

Siamese

Arguably the most easily recognized breed for their unique coloring and bright blue eyes, Siamese cats are the fourth most popular cat in the U.S. They are known to be very vocal, curious cats. Don’t underestimate these gorgeous cats! Just because they’re dainty and regal looking, doesn’t mean they don’t know how to play like an ally cat.

American Shorthair

These striped, shorthair cats come in at number 6 in the U.S. This breed’s personality traits tend to vary significantly from cat to cat, but they are typically pretty quiet cats. They are a popular choice among families and owners looking for a low-maintenance cat due to their short hair that does not require grooming.

Abyssinian

These Sphnyx looking cats are another popular choice among American households. They are very playful cats who are usually great with kids and dogs. They are the exception to the rule of cats and thoroughly enjoy playing in water.

Exotic Shorthair

This shorthaired Persian lookalike cat is another popular cat due to its lower maintenance grooming routine. They still require a weekly brushing, but that is still much less than their longhair counterparts. Just like Persians, they tend to be calm kitties. However, they can be quite sensitive as well, so make sure you’re paying attention to any changes in your home and how your cat will react.

Ragdoll

These cats get their name from their unique reaction to being picked up. They go limp like a doll! They are great lap-cats due to this behavior. Although, they can grow up to be a larger cat. Females can weigh up to 25 pounds and males can weigh up to 30.

Burmese

Thought to be one of the most intelligent cat breeds, these cats tend to have similar behavior to dogs. They have been known to greet visitors at the door. Unlike some other cat breeds, Burmese cats require human attention, much like a dog, and do not do well when left alone for long periods of time.

Himalayan

With long, silky fur and a smushed face, these pretty cats come in at the 11th most popular breed in the U.S. Their fur does require daily brushing to prevent matting like their other longhaired counterparts. They are also a descendant of Siamese cats so their personalities tend to be similar. They are outgoing, active, and social cats.

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