Small Cat Breeds That Are Devoted to Their Humans

Which cat breeds are the smallest, and what makes them so lovable?

All cats are awesome, but there’s something extra special about a small cat. Really, is there anything more adorable?

Tiny cats are cuddly, delightful and devoted to their humans. Plus, with a small cat, you get the best of both worlds — the maturity of an adult cat with the cuteness of a kitten.

So, if you’re looking for an itty-bitty-kitty, here are some small cat breeds for you to consider.

Abyssinian

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Temperament: Agile, Animated, Inquisitive

Weight: 7-10 pounds (male), 6-9 pounds (female)

Longevity: 14-17 years

Bottom Line: Abyssinian

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Abyssinian cats may not be super cuddly, but they show their love for their humans in other ways. They’re affectionate, extroverted and love being in a family.

They don’t do well in small, cramped spaces, so a tiny apartment wouldn’t be the best environment for them. They need room to explore and move their bodies. Abyssinians may have a quieter tone than other vocal cats, but they still get their message across.

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American Curl

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Temperament: Affectionate, Inquisitive, Social

Weight: 7-10 pounds (male), 5-8 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-20 years

Bottom Line: American Curl

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There are good reasons why American curl cats are so popular. Not only are they open about the love they have for their humans, but they’re also doglike in the way they follow their people around and are interested in everything they do.

American curls are homebodies at heart and love spending time with their families. One charming aspect of the American curl is the way they remain kittenish their whole lives.

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Balinese

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Temperament: Loyal, Friendly, Expressive

Weight: 8-15 pounds

Longevity: 8-13 years

Bottom Line: Balinese

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You’ll never be lonely if you have a Balinese cat because they’re all about togetherness, and they’ll be your constant companion. They’re loving, have a good sense of humor and are very curious, especially about your life.

They’re such busy-bodies that they’ll follow you from room to room like a detective searching for clues. The question is, what do they do with the information once they find it?

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Bambino

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Temperament: Friendly, Social, Affectionate

Weight: 5-9 pounds

Longevity: 12+ years

Bottom Line: Bambino

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Bambino is Italian for “baby,” a fitting name for a cat that needs constant attention. Bambinos are the result of cross-breeding between a sphynx and a munchkin cat. The bambino is very social and friendly with everybody, including other cats and kids.

They’re energetic and need to be entertained, so they’re not a cat that you can leave alone for hours on end. Think of yourself as their Activities Director.

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Burmese

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Temperament: Outgoing, Curious, Playful

Weight: 8-12 pounds (male), 6-10 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-16 years

Bottom Line: Burmese

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Most Burmese cats develop a long-lasting bond with their humans, and they require lots of time with them. If a Burmese had a day-planner, you’d see “spend time with my person” written on every day. They’re charming, endearing and mischievous.

As they age from kittens to adults, they never lose their spirit or their confidence. Make sure never to leave them alone for too long, though, as they’ll get lonely.

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Cornish Rex

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Temperament: Highly Active, Loves Attention

Weight: 6-9 pounds (male), 5-7 pounds (female)

Longevity: 11-15 years

Bottom Line: Cornish Rex

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At first glance, Cornish Rex cats may seem aloof and unapproachable, but they’re extremely affectionate and fun-loving. They’re always up for a game of catch and return, as they like to show off how agile they are with their abilities to pick up and toss small objects with their paws.

One of the most appealing things about Cornish Rex cats is their kitten-like shenanigans don’t stop when they grow up.

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Devon Rex

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Temperament: Entertaining, Social, Affectionate

Weight: 6-9 pounds

Longevity: 9-15 years

Bottom Line: Devon Rex

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People who think they “own” a Devon Rex cat have it all wrong — it’s the cat who owns them! Devon Rex cats are very loyal and dedicated to their humans, and they want to be with them all the time. They love to sit on their human’s shoulders and supervise their human’s life.

Devon Rex cats are very social and need stimulating toys, new people to charm or other cats to play with. If they don’t have something or someone to occupy their time, they get bored.

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Dwelf

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Temperament: Friendly, Social, Smart

Weight: 4-9 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Dwelf

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Dwelf cats may be small in stature, but they’re big in heart. It would be difficult to find a cat who enjoys being with its humans more than them.

A family who can spend a lot of time with the dwelf works best, as they don’t like being left alone. Dwelf cats have been described as dog-like because of how great they are as companions.

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Egyptian Mau

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Temperament: Fast, Sensitive, Loyal

Weight: 10-14 pounds (male), 6-10 pounds (female)

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Egyptian Mau

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Egyptian Mau cats take the connection between themselves and their human very seriously. It’s a pleasure to spend time with them because of how playful, athletic and fun they tend to be.

They’re self-centered without being overly aggressive and superior without being obnoxious. You’ll be amazed at how high the places are that they perch, looking down on their subjects as if they were ancient Egyptian kings and queens.

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Genetta

Pet Guide

Temperament: Energetic, Playful, Affectionate

Weight: 4-8 pounds

Longevity: 12-16 years

Bottom Line: Genetta

Genetta cats are another breed that enjoys being around humans and other animals, as they’re very social. Genettas hate being alone, so they’ll seek out a human and see if they’re up for a game of fetch.

These cats thrive on human interaction and attention. Genettas need a squad so that there’s always someone around to hang out with.

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Japanese Bobtail

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Temperament: Outgoing, Quirky, Intelligent

Weight: 7-10 pounds (male), 5-7 pounds (female)

Longevity: 15-18 years

Bottom Line: Japanese Bobtail

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Japanese bobtails tend to run smaller than most domestic cats, which could be why they’re so good at agility courses. But their talents don’t stop at being agile; they’re also great jumpers and can carry things in their mouths.

Japanese bobtails like to spend time with their humans, and they’re down for everything from chilling on the couch, marking their peeps by head-butting them or welcoming guests into their home. Plus, Japanese bobtails are thought to bring good fortune to their owners.

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Kinkalow

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Temperament: Youthful, Affectionate, Intelligent

Weight: 3-7 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Kinkalow

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Kinkalow cats are social media stars because of how cute and cuddly they are. These lovebugs are good with everybody, from small children to seniors. They enjoy playing with toys that challenge them, and while they play hard, they also know how to relax.

If you want a lap cat, a cuddle kitty or one that will curl up next to you and snooze, then a Kinkalow is for you. Petting their super soft and luxurious fur is bound to relax you after a stressful day.

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Lambkin Dwarf

Pet Guide

Temperament: Sweet, Gentle, Tolerant

Weight: 5-9 pounds

Longevity: 12-14 years

Bottom Line: Lambkin Dwarf

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The Lambkin dwarf cat fits into any group situation; whether other cats, other pets or young children, the Lambkin gets along with everyone. As long as they get a ton of attention and interaction from their humans, then the Lambkin is happy.

This rare breed is super chill, gentle and brings a sense of calm to any household.

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LaPerm

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Temperament: People-Oriented, Energetic, Friendly

Weight: 7-10 pounds (male), 5-8 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-15 years

Bottom Line: LaPerm

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LaPerm cats tend to bond with one person and need physical contact with them as much as possible. These cats will reach out with their paws to touch their human’s arm or leg, tap them to get their owner’s attention or rub up against their human while purring loudly.

Connection is everything to the LaPerm cat.

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Minskin

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Temperament: Confident, Loving, Intelligent

Weight: 6-9 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Minskin

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Minskins are sometimes called “Corgis of the cat world” because of how low to the ground they are, but make no mistake, this breed is 100 percent feline. They’re very smart, curious and loving.

They enjoy exploring their territory, hunting and just spending quality time with their humans and other animal pals.

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Minuet (aka Napoleon)

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Temperament: Easy-Going, Loving, High-Energy

Weight: 5-9 pounds

Longevity: 9-15 years

Bottom Line: Minuet (aka Napoleon)

Pet Guide

Minuet cats have a Persian cat’s beauty and luxurious fur mixed with the curiosity and short stature of a munchkin cat. Minuet cats are the opposite of loners and hate being left alone.

Since they have a lot of energy, they need to be in a household that’s ready to lavish them with attention and has plenty of time for playdates.

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Munchkin

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Temperament: Devoted, Friendly, Curious

Weight: 6-9 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Munchkin

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Munchkins may be small, but they have huge personalities. Don’t leave your small valuables out where the munchkin can find them, for they’re notorious thieves. Munchkins steal objects and hide them.

While they’re not the greatest jumpers with their little legs, they love to play chase or hunt catnip mousies. Since they’re very curious, they’ll stand on their hind legs if something is blocking their view. There’s never a dull moment when you live with this tiny cat.

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Oriental Shorthair

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Temperament: Loyal, Spirited, Affectionate

Weight: 6-12 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Oriental Shorthair

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Oriental shorthair cats are devoted to their humans, and they expect the same level of focus and attention back. As far as the Oriental shorthair is concerned, you should include them in everything you do. They integrate themselves so thoroughly into your life; they’ll greet you at the door when you come home and chew you out for going away.

They’re purr monsters, cuddlers and will get visibly unhappy when they’re left alone. If their curiosity gets peaked, they’ll go through your backpacks, purses and peek in open drawers for answers.

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Russian Blue

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Temperament: Affectionate, Mellow, Intelligent

Weight: 7-12 pounds

Longevity: 15-20 years

Bottom Line: Russian Blue

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Russian blue cats bond with their people in such an intense way that they’re intuitive to their human needs. Russian blues make the perfect cuddle buddies, as they’re affectionate without being overly clingy. If they want attention, they’ll seek it out.

They make great lap cats and are happy to sit in your lap while you tell them about your day.

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Scottish Fold

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Temperament: Clever, Intelligent, People-Oriented

Weight: 9-13 pounds (male), 6-9 pounds (female)

Longevity: 11-15 years

Bottom Line: Scottish Fold

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Scottish fold cats are ridiculously committed to their people. You could even say, “They’re hopelessly devoted.”

Once you’ve established a bond with them, they’re happy to go anywhere with you. They’re also very adaptable and can handle nearly every living situation, so they’re the perfect cat if you travel a lot and want to take your cats with you.

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Siamese

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Temperament: Talkative, Lively, Elegant

Weight: 8-12 pounds (male), 5-8 pounds (female)

Longevity: 11-15 years (but some have lived 20+ years)

Bottom Line: Siamese

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There are a lot of mistaken ideas of Siamese cats floating around. Some say they’re self-centered or arrogant, while others say they’re antisocial. None of these are true.

Siamese cats are friendly, loving and will bond with their human for life. Siamese cats feel it’s their duty to advise you on every aspect of your life and let you know how they feel about everything. They require a lot of attention, so if you want to avoid them acting out, make sure your beauties are praised and pampered.

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Singapura

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Temperament: Playful, Happy, Affectionate

Weight: 4-8 pounds

Longevity: 11-15 years

Bottom Line: Singapura

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Singapura cats go from zero to full speed ahead at all times. They’re very active, curious, playful and they love to get in your business.

Singapura cats are talkative, and one of their favorite topics is how you should be living your life. It’s a good thing these opinionated extroverts have a ton of charm and charisma.

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Somali

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Temperament: Playful, Adaptable, Attention-Seeking

Weight: 10-12 pounds (male), 6-10 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-12 years

Bottom Line: Somali

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Somali cats are life-lovers and make the most of their day, whether it’s playing for hours on end, spending time with their human or inserting themselves into the middle of the action.

Somali cats can’t resist movement, so beware if they’re trying to catch a bug or see the tap running; they’re going to go for it, no matter what’s in their way.

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Sphynx

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Temperament: Silly, Devoted, Extroverted

Weight: 6-12 pounds

Longevity: 9-15 years

Bottom Line: Sphynx

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Sphynx cats may not have a coat of plush fur, but they are the most loving, cuddly and dedicated cats around. They’re clever, playful and curious, but what sets them apart is how affectionate they are.

Since their bodies are covered with peach fuzz, they’re often chilly. Humans are the best heaters around, so it’s not uncommon to find a Sphynx cat in your lap, sleeping next to you or snuggling as close as possible.

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Turkish Angora

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Temperament: Clown-like, Extroverted, Loyal

Weight: 7-10 pounds (male), 5-8 pounds (female)

Longevity: 12-18+ years

Bottom Line: Turkish Angora

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It’s rare that anyone asks where their Turkish Angora cat is, as they tend to be right in the middle of whatever is going on. If a stranger comes over, Turkish Angora cats aren’t going to hide under the bed; they’re going to greet their guests.

They’re very social and highly adaptable. They do well with children, older adults who live alone and everyone in between.

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