10 Cat Breeds That Actually Enjoy Being Held

Not all cats are aloof royalty who merely tolerate your presence. In fact, plenty of breeds genuinely enjoy being scooped up and snuggled like fuzzy little teddy bears. If you’re a cat lover who dreams of curling up with a kitty that doesn’t mind (or even prefers!) being held, you’re in luck. Here are 10 cat breeds that will make your cuddly dreams come true.

Ragdoll

Photo By Rawlik/YAY Images

The Ragdoll is practically famous for being a snugglebug. They didn’t get their name for nothing—when you pick one up, they often go completely limp in your arms. These big, blue-eyed beauties love affection and are happiest when they’re close to their humans. They’re basically the Labrador Retrievers of the cat world.

Scottish Fold

Photo By Satura86/YAY Images

With their signature folded ears and wide, curious eyes, Scottish Folds are as affectionate as they are adorable. These cats form strong bonds with their people and often crave lap time. They’re easygoing and mellow, making them great candidates for being held, cuddled, and carried around like royalty.

Maine Coon

Photo By nikkytok/YAY Images

Don’t let their size fool you—Maine Coons are gentle giants. While they may look like majestic mini-lions, they have hearts of gold and a surprisingly soft side. Many Maine Coons not only tolerate being held but actively enjoy it, especially if it means they get to hang out at your shoulder level like a purring parrot.

Sphynx

Photo By anytka/YAY Images

Yes, they’re hairless, but they’re definitely not heartless. The Sphynx is one of the most affectionate cat breeds around. These quirky, warm little creatures love human contact and are known to snuggle up for warmth and attention. Holding them feels a bit like cuddling a warm suede hot water bottle—one with a very expressive personality.

Birman

Photo By YAY Images

Often called the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” the Birman is known for its calm and loving nature. These blue-eyed beauties adore companionship and tend to follow their humans from room to room. They don’t mind being picked up and enjoy the security of being cradled in a loving embrace.

Burmese

Photo By Alina_Lebed/YAY Images

Burmese cats are equal parts charm and clinginess—in the best way possible. They need human contact and thrive on attention. These playful, people-oriented cats are known to seek out cuddles and won’t complain if you carry them from the couch to the kitchen and back again.

Ragamuffin

Photo By Txs635/YAY Images

Similar to the Ragdoll, the Ragamuffin is another plush, laid-back breed that melts in your arms. They’re incredibly tolerant and affectionate, with a sweet demeanor that makes them ideal cuddle companions. If you’re looking for a living, purring teddy bear, the Ragamuffin checks all the boxes.

Tonkinese

Photo By VisualMarketplace/YAY Images

Take the sociability of a Siamese and mix it with the mellow charm of a Burmese, and you get the Tonkinese. These cats are playful, affectionate, and totally into human interaction. They’re known to ride on shoulders, cuddle in laps, and happily be carried around—basically, they’re up for whatever you’re doing, as long as they’re included.

Exotic Shorthair

Photo By Vera1703/YAY Images

Basically a Persian with a low-maintenance coat, the Exotic Shorthair is as cuddly as they come. Their squishy faces and calm personalities make them irresistible lap companions. They’re not overly demanding but won’t turn down a good snuggle or a ride in your arms.

American Curl

Photo By Clik via Wikimedia licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

With their unique backward-curled ears and sweet disposition, American Curls are affectionate without being clingy. They enjoy attention and are typically fine with being held—especially if it’s part of a calm and cozy hangout. They’re adaptable and friendly, often getting along with kids and other pets too.

  • Please Note: This content was created with the assistance of AI and thoroughly edited by a human before publishing.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *