Cats may have a reputation for independence, but many breeds thrive when they share their home with another feline. Social, playful breeds often feel more relaxed and confident when they have company, especially if they enjoy interactive play or constant activity.
On the other hand, some cats value predictable routines, quiet spaces, and complete control over their territory, making them happiest as the only pet in the household.
Understanding these tendencies helps match each breed’s personality with the environment that suits them best. Every cat is an individual, yet breed tendencies can offer helpful insight for people deciding whether their home should welcome one cat or a bonded pair.
Looking at how these breeds behave, their energy levels, and their emotional needs can make it easier to create a living space where they feel secure and content.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Each cat has a unique personality, and behaviour can vary with age, health, socialisation, and environment. For concerns about pet compatibility, consult a licensed veterinarian or certified behaviour professional. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
The Cat Breeds That Do Best With A Companion
This section will focus on the breeds known for enjoying the company of another cat. These cats tend to be sociable, interactive, and happiest when they have a partner to play with or relax beside.
1. Ragdoll
With a personality as soft as their plush coat, Ragdolls are famous for their love of company. These blue-eyed beauties often follow their humans from room to room, seeking attention and affection at every turn.
Their easygoing temperament makes them ideal for multi-cat households. They rarely show aggression toward other felines and actually seem happier when they have a playmate to cuddle with during afternoon naps.
If you work long hours, getting two Ragdolls might be the perfect solution. They keep each other entertained and provide the constant companionship this breed craves.
2. Siamese
Known for their chatty personalities, Siamese cats despise loneliness more than most breeds. These vocal felines will tell you exactly how they feel about being left alone, often with loud, persistent meows that can wake the neighbourhood.
Their intelligence and energy levels mean they need mental stimulation throughout the day. Another cat provides the perfect outlet for their playful antics and curious nature, preventing boredom-related behaviour problems.
Siamese cats form strong bonds with their companions, whether human or feline. They often groom each other and sleep intertwined, creating heartwarming scenes of feline friendship.
3. Burmese
Burmese cats possess an almost dog-like devotion to their families. These affectionate felines hate being alone and will actively seek out interaction, making them wonderful candidates for homes with multiple pets.
Their playful nature extends well into adulthood, unlike many breeds that become sedentary with age. A feline companion helps channel this energy into healthy play sessions rather than destructive behaviour born from boredom.
These cats adapt quickly to new furry friends and rarely show territorial aggression. Their confident, outgoing personality makes introductions smooth and helps create harmonious multi-pet households.
4. Abyssinian
Often called the border collies of the cat world, Abyssinians possess boundless energy and curiosity. These athletic felines climb, jump, and explore every corner of their territory, requiring constant mental and physical stimulation.
A single Abyssinian left alone can become destructive or develop anxiety-related behaviours. Having a feline companion provides an outlet for their need to chase, wrestle, and investigate, keeping both cats healthier and happier.
These cats form tight bonds with their playmates and often engage in synchronized activities. You might find them perched together on high shelves, surveying their domain like a pair of elegant sentinels.
5. Devon Rex
With their pixie-like faces and oversized ears, Devon Rex cats look as unique as their personalities. These playful clowns crave attention and interaction, thriving in environments where they’re never truly alone.
Their mischievous nature means they’re always getting into something, whether it’s opening cabinets or stealing small objects. Another cat can help redirect this energy into appropriate play, saving your belongings from curious paws.
Devon Rex cats are exceptionally warm due to their thin coats, and they love cuddling with other pets for comfort. This physical closeness strengthens their bond and provides mutual warmth during colder months.
6. Birman
Legend says Birmans were temple guardians in ancient Burma, and their serene demeanor reflects this spiritual heritage. These cats possess a balanced temperament that makes them wonderful companions for both humans and other felines.
Unlike more demanding breeds, Birmans are patient and adaptable to various household dynamics. They don’t typically compete for attention aggressively, instead preferring to share affection peacefully with other pets.
Their medium energy levels mean they enjoy play sessions without being overwhelming. A companion cat provides the perfect balance, offering entertainment during active periods and comfort during restful moments.
7. Maine Coon
As one of the largest domestic cat breeds, Maine Coons might seem intimidating, but they’re actually gentle giants with hearts to match their size. Their friendly disposition extends to other cats, dogs, and even children.
These cats mature slowly, often retaining kitten-like playfulness for several years. Having another cat in the home provides ongoing entertainment and helps them develop proper social skills during this extended adolescence.
Maine Coons are highly intelligent and can learn tricks, play fetch, and even walk on leashes. A feline companion can participate in these activities, making training sessions more engaging for everyone involved.
8. Scottish Fold
Those adorable folded ears give Scottish Folds an owl-like appearance that melts hearts instantly. Beyond their unique looks, these cats possess tender-hearted personalities that make them wonderful companions for other felines.
They’re not particularly vocal or demanding, preferring to express affection through quiet presence and gentle purring. This calm demeanor helps reduce stress in multi-cat households, creating a peaceful coexistence among all pets.
Scottish Folds enjoy moderate play but also appreciate long periods of rest. Having another cat means they can engage in brief play sessions followed by companionable naps, perfectly matching their energy preferences.
9. Oriental Shorthair
Related to Siamese cats, Oriental Shorthairs share their ancestors’ need for constant interaction. These elegant felines come in hundreds of colour combinations, but they all share one trait: they absolutely hate being alone.
Their intelligence rivals that of some dog breeds, and they quickly learn household routines and even tricks. Another cat provides mental stimulation through play and interaction, preventing the depression that can develop from isolation.
Oriental Shorthairs are incredibly loyal and form deep attachments to their companions. They’ll greet other household pets enthusiastically and often initiate play sessions, keeping everyone active and engaged throughout the day.
The Cat Breeds That Prefer Being The Only Pets
This section introduces the breeds that usually feel most comfortable when they have their home and humans all to themselves. These cats often value routine, calm environments, and personal space.
1. Persian
Persians embody feline royalty with their luxurious coats and dignified demeanor. These cats prefer a calm, predictable environment where they can maintain their routines without interference from energetic companions.
Their long fur requires daily grooming, and most Persians tolerate this attention better when they’re the sole focus. Other pets can cause stress during grooming sessions, making the already time-consuming task even more challenging.
While not unfriendly, Persians simply don’t seek out feline companionship the way other breeds do. They’re content with human interaction and plenty of quiet time to rest on their favourite cushion undisturbed.
2. Russian Blue
Reserved and sensitive, Russian Blues take time to warm up to anyone, human or feline. These cats form strong bonds with their chosen person but often view other animals as unwelcome intruders in their carefully controlled world.
Their routine-oriented nature means they prefer predictability over the chaos that additional pets can bring. Changes in household dynamics can cause stress, leading to hiding or even litter box issues.
Russian Blues are perfectly content entertaining themselves with puzzle toys or watching birds from a sunny window. They don’t experience loneliness the way more social breeds do, making them ideal for single-pet households.
3. British Shorthair
Built like teddy bears with their round faces and plush coats, British Shorthairs might look cuddly, but they’re actually quite independent. These cats enjoy affection on their own terms and often prefer observing household activities from a distance.
Their laid-back personality doesn’t translate to a desire for feline companionship. In fact, many British Shorthairs find other cats annoying, preferring to maintain their personal space without constant interaction or play demands.
These cats are low-maintenance emotionally, not requiring constant entertainment or attention. They’re happy with a few toys, regular meals, and occasional petting sessions, making them perfect for people who want a single, self-sufficient pet.
4. Norwegian Forest Cat
Bred to survive harsh Scandinavian winters, Norwegian Forest Cats possess a self-reliant streak that sets them apart from more social breeds. These magnificent felines are friendly but don’t crave constant companionship like some other cats.
Their hunting instincts remain strong, and they prefer having their own territory to patrol without competition. Multiple cats can trigger territorial disputes, disrupting the peaceful environment these cats prefer.
Norwegian Forest Cats bond deeply with their humans but maintain an independent spirit. They’re content spending hours alone, exploring their environment or napping in high perches, making them suitable for single-pet homes.
5. Turkish Angora
Elegant and athletic, Turkish Angoras possess a strong personality that often clashes with other cats. These intelligent felines like being the centre of attention and may become jealous when forced to share their humans with other pets.
Their high energy levels and assertive nature can overwhelm more timid cats, leading to household tension. They prefer establishing themselves as the undisputed ruler of their domain without competition from feline siblings.
Turkish Angoras form intense bonds with one or two favourite people and often follow them everywhere. This focused attachment means they don’t typically seek out relationships with other animals, preferring exclusive human companionship instead.
6. Chartreux
Known as the smiling cat of France, Chartreux cats possess a quiet, observant nature that doesn’t mesh well with more boisterous felines. These muscular cats are affectionate with their humans but prefer solitude over constant feline interaction.
Their hunting heritage means they have strong prey drives and territorial instincts. Introducing another cat can trigger these instincts, leading to stress or aggressive behaviour that’s otherwise uncharacteristic of this normally calm breed.
Chartreux cats are content with simple pleasures like watching birds or playing with interactive toys. They don’t require a companion to feel fulfilled, making them excellent choices for owners wanting a single, devoted pet.
