Hello! Need breed suggestions for a new cat

Hello, I am new here!

I would love to bring a cat into our household. Hubby and I have a dog, will probably have children within the next 2 years, and I would love to have a cat as well. Our dog is quite good with other animals, is very sweet.

My biggest requirement in a cat is a cuddly, affectionate, cat who loves to be picked up and sit in my lap or by my side. I used to own a Persian, and he absolutely stole my heart. From the first moment I met him at the breeder's house, he walked right up to me and rolled over on his back for me to rub his belly. He was the sweetest creature on the planet, possibly my favorite pet of all time (tied 1st place with my first dog when I was 6 years old). His name was Pepper, and you could not find a sweeter more gentle and affectionate animal anywhere. I had to give him away because at the time I was a single girl living by myself in an apartment working 12 hour days. My cat would cry all day because he was alone (my neighbor would scold me when I came home, as he should have!). I eventually found him a very loving home with 3 kids and a stay at home mom. But it broke my heart to give him away, and I still miss Pepper with all my heart!

I think a cat that is overly active would not suit me, or our lifestyle. I now work out of home, and can give the cat lots of attention, but not necessarily constant active "play" attention (not that I would never play with my cat!). Pepper was perfect in that regard. So huggable, and loved to be held and to sit in my lap. He also didn't tend to jump on things too much, which was a nice plus, but not an absolutely necessary trait, after all, we're talking cats! Also, I'm guessing that a very active cat might possibly have an inclination to scratch at or be annoyed with a baby, which would frighten me.

Please share your suggestions, I'd love to hear them! I have read good things about the "Ragamuffin" and "Ragdoll" breeds. But maybe Persians are the best choice for me and our future family? But on some websites they are listed as slightly aloof and shy. I guess I just lucked out with Pepper. I miss him so much! Thank you for your input.

Best,
NYKat

Have you thought about going to a shelter? They will have determined where a cat would be happiest. Also that way another kitty is getting a home! Good luck! Keep us updated!

I'll move this to the Breeder's Corner for you.

American Curls are simply the best in my opinion, I've been in love with this breed since my first litter in 1986

It is a unique breed - not overly active/talkative, but not couch potatoey either...very bright, can self entertain, but they do tend to take over (via charm) any household they are in - if other cats, they tend to be top cat, they do have a history of getting along well with dogs and kids - but as with any breed, there are variations in personality, so a good visit at the breeders is called for if possible, let the kitten pick you

retired from breeding and showing, I just love talking about Curls
I can make recomendations as to reputable breeders if you want to pm me.

If you don't want a very active cat, then I would go with a Ragdoll or a Persian again. I got two Persians and they are very mellow, and pretty low energy cats. But my Persians are not very affectionate, so, I think the websites knew what they were talking about when they said "aloof", LOL. But then it's kind of nice to have a quiet cat that doesn't run around like crazy. Which mine almost never run around. They are very well behaved, as far as cats go. I never had a Ragdoll, but they are supposed to be very freindly, so that's another option. Of course, the character of an individual cat can vary even within a breed. If it was me getting another cat, I would probably go for a Ragdoll. Or just simply go to a shelter and meet the kitties and pick up the freindly one-mixed breed cats can be freindly as well. And if you meet the cat, then you can figure out if the cat is freindly or not. But of course the mixed breed might have a lot more energy than a Persian might.

Well,

My vote would have to go with a munchkin! They are laid back & can be playfull at the same time. All of ours love our dogs, and some of them even clean them like they own them (My Chow/ Rotti mix Loves it).

Plus if you are worried about your cat being alone, then consider that there are long legged munchkins born in almost every litter, and some breeders will include a long legged sibling so they can go together.

Originally Posted by ash_bct

Have you thought about going to a shelter? They will have determined where a cat would be happiest. Also that way another kitty is getting a home! Good luck! Keep us updated!

Click to expand...

i agree rescuing a cat from a shelter is a wonderful feeling, i got my cassie there and she's perfect for us, and sooo beautiful!

Hi there, just read your post. Although there are many wonderful cats looking for adoption at a rescue centre (and I've had some fantasic babies this way!), if you'd prefer a pedigree cat, may I suggest a Norwegian Forest Cat? They are big Semi Longhaired cats with a fabulous personality. They get on well with people and dogs, are very intelligent and very laid back and affectionate. If you're used to Persians, then caring for a Norwegian would be a doddle as their coats need minimal grooming. I've just begun to breed them as I've fallen in love with them . Whatever cat you decide on, good luck and enjoy them! Ali

Thank you all so very much for your replies. I decided on a Ragdoll kitten, and he will be coming home with me in July. Thanks again all for your advice!

Best wishes with your new addition!!!

Enjoy, they are a lovely breed!