Most Popular Breeds for 2025

Countdown of Cuteness

March 4, 2025

Desiree Bobby, CFA Director of Marketing and Brand

Every year, cat enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the grand reveal of CFA’s top pedigreed cat breeds, and 2025 (based on calendar year registrations in 2024) is no exception! This year’s countdown of cuteness is filled with familiar feline favorites, but there’s an exciting shake-up at the top with a new giant reigning supreme. From the dignified Russian Blue to the regal Maine Coon Cat, each breed in this lineup brings its own unique charm and irresistible appeal that keeps cat lovers coming back for more. Join us as we embark on a whimsical journey through the top ten pedigreed cat breeds, each possessing a purr-sonality that captivates the hearts of feline aficionados worldwide. Get ready to unleash a wave of affection and pride as we explore what makes these cats the cat’s whiskers of 2025!

 

Commence the Countdown!

 

10 – Russian Blue: The Cat that Sparkles

The Russian Blue is famed for its mesmerizing silver-tipped blue coat that captivates cat lovers. This breed’s fur glistens with a silvery sheen, creating an ethereal aura that sets it apart from other feline contenders. The dense, plush coat is double-layered, providing warmth during colder months and requiring minimal grooming—a win-win for both the cat and owner. Whether lounging on a windowsill or playfully pouncing on toys, the Russian Blue’s coat glistens with every movement, making it a living work of art.

 

 

 

 

 

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9 – Sphynx – Uniquely Touchable

The Sphynx is a breed that turns heads and captures hearts with its distinctive lack of fur. This hairless wonder compensates for its absence of a traditional coat with a plethora of charm and personality. Its smooth, suede-like skin feels warm to the touch, offering a unique tactile experience for cat lovers. This breed proves that fur is not essential for feline charisma, as the Sphynx’s vibrant personality and affectionate nature shine through unmistakably. Its endearing wrinkles and big, expressive eyes add to its quirky appeal, making every Sphynx a conversation starter.

 

 

 

 

 

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8 – Siberian – Adventurous and Agile

The Siberian is a delightful blend of fluff and athleticism, earning it a well-deserved spot among the top pedigreed breeds. Known for its robust build and powerful muscles, the Siberian is an agile jumper and climber, often found exploring high perches and navigating tricky terrain with ease. This natural prowess hails from its origins in the rugged Russian wilderness, where survival demanded both strength and agility. With an affinity for exploration and a fearless spirit, the Siberian captures the hearts of those who admire a cat that is both fluffy and fiercely independent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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7 – British Shorthair: The Classic Companion

The British Shorthair is the epitome of a loyal and gentle friend, making it a cherished member of many households. Its signature round face and plush coat add to its teddy bear-like charm, inviting affection and admiration from all who meet it. This breed’s loyalty is matched by its intelligence, making it quick to learn routines and adapt to changes. Its gentle presence and steadfast friendship create a sense of comfort and warmth, endearing the British Shorthair to cat lovers worldwide.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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5 – Devon Rex: The Elfin Charmer

The Devon Rex, the most popular shorthair breed on our list, is an enchanting blend of mischief and affection, charming everyone with its endearing appearance and playful antics. This breed is often recognized by its curly coat, large ears and impish expression, which perfectly complement its mischievous personality. The Devon Rex’s combination of playfulness and love makes it an ideal pet for those who appreciate a cat that can both entertain and offer unwavering companionship. Its unique personality ensures there’s never a dull moment with this elfin charmer around.

 

 

 

 

 

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6 – Abyssinian: The Ancient Beauty

The Abyssinian captivates with its vibrant energy and insatiable curiosity, traits that have left an indelible mark on cat fanciers globally. This breed, believed to have ancient origins, carries a legacy of grace and vitality, reflected in its lithe build and expressive almond-shaped eyes. Their playful antics and inquisitive demeanor make them endlessly entertaining. Despite their active nature, Abyssinians are also incredibly affectionate, forming close bonds with their human families.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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4. The Exotic – The Plush Teddy Bear

The Exotic, affectionately known as the “Plush Teddy Bear” of the feline world, wins hearts with its distinctive face with round, expressive eyes. This breed’s adorable appearance is matched by its sweet and gentle temperament, making it a beloved choice for families and cat enthusiasts alike. Despite its luxurious appearance, the Exotic is relatively low-maintenance compared to its Persian relatives, requiring less grooming while retaining the same endearing features. Its calm and laid-back nature makes it an ideal companion for a relaxed household, where it can enjoy leisurely naps and gentle play.

 

 

 

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3 . The Persian – The Glamorous Aristocrat

The Persian is the epitome of feline royalty, known for its regal demeanor and luxurious coat. This glamorous aristocrat of the cat world captivates with its graceful presence and serene disposition. Its long, flowing fur, combined with its distinctive face, gives the Persian an aura of opulence that is hard to resist. Despite their aristocratic appearance, Persians are quite playful, enjoying short bursts of activity and interactive toys. Their blend of regal beauty and loving nature makes them a cherished breed for those who appreciate the finer things in feline companionship.

 

 

 

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2. The Ragdoll – The Affectionate Flopper

The Ragdoll is celebrated for its mesmerizing coat, a hallmark of its lovely persona. This breed’s semi-long fur is silky and luxurious, inviting petting and admiration from all who encounter it. The Ragdoll’s coat, often adorned in striking color points, adds to its visual appeal and enhances its soothing presence. The allure of the Ragdoll’s coat is matched by its affectionate temperament. Known for its tendency to be gentle and relaxed when held, this breed thrives on human interaction and forms deep, lasting bonds with its family. The combination of its captivating coat and loving nature makes the Ragdoll a favorite among those seeking a gentle, affectionate feline companion.

 

 

 

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1. The Maine Coon Cat – The Majestic Winner

The Maine Coon Cat, crowned as the top pedigreed cat breed for 2025, is adored for its gentle and sociable nature. Known as the “gentle giant” of the cat world, this breed boasts a striking appearance matched by a heartwarming demeanor. Despite their impressive size, Maine Coons are incredibly friendly and approachable, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike.

These majestic cats are famous for their intelligence and adaptability, quickly learning new tricks and fitting seamlessly into various household environments. Their sociable disposition means they thrive on interaction, often greeting guests with curiosity and warmth.

Maine Coon Cats are also known for their loyalty, forming strong bonds with their human companions and often following them around the house. Their playful yet gentle nature makes them excellent playmates for children and other pets, ensuring a harmonious household. The Maine Coon Cat’s combination of majesty and warmth makes it a deserving champion in the world of pedigreed cats.

 

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) extends its profound appreciation to the preservation breeders for their steadfast commitment to the protection and conservation of their respective breeds. Their relentless efforts ensure the perpetuation of the diverse spectrum of pedigreed cat breeds, thereby enriching our lives with the unique personalities and traits that each individual breed embodies.

Preservation breeders stand as the custodians of these cherished pedigreed cats, ensuring their legacy continues. Moreover, their meticulous dedication to preserving ancestry data, through the diligent registration of every kitten born under their care, lays the cornerstone for CFA’s annual revelation of the world’s most revered breeds.

For additional information on the pedigreed breeds recognized by CFA, please visit their official website at www.cfa.org