In the market for one of the quietest cat breeds? We’ve got you covered! While many of the felines on this list are known for their placid, gentle, and easygoing nature, quiet doesn’t always mean docile. In fact, some of the breeds below rarely vocalize but are super active and outgoing.
Regardless of whether you opt for an energetic kitty or a real lazy log, all quiet cats have the same needs as their more talkative brothers and sisters. So you’ll want to invest in a few of the best cat toys to ensure they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation each day, feed them a high-quality diet, and dish out lots of love and affection.
While quietness exists on a spectrum, the cats on this list are known for being mellow and will either vocalize very infrequently, preferring to let their body language do the talking, or speak in small amounts when they’re after something — like another scoop of the best cat food for example!
So, ready to meet your new fur-ever friend? Happy purr-rusing!
1. Persian
Calm cats are known for their love of peace and quiet, the Persian is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world. Instantly recognizable thanks to their snub noses, chubby cheeks, round faces, and long hair, the Persian is a caring and gentle kitty. One of the best cats for introverts due to their serene nature, they’re loving, affectionate, and loyal and do best in relaxed and tranquil homes that are free from hustle and bustle.
2. Scottish Fold
One of our favorite surprising facts about Scottish Fold cats is that these little cuties are all born with straight ears and while some will go on to develop the trademark fold this breed is known and loved for, some will hold onto their straight ears throughout their lives. That quirk aside, these sweet-natured kitties are easygoing and thrive in households where they get a mix of play and quiet cuddle time.
3. Birman
If you’re looking for a gentle and undemanding little feline friend, look no further than the beautiful Birman. With their silky, fluffy and luxurious coat and their loving and social nature, it’s not hard to see why the Birman is one of the world’s most popular cat breeds. Affectionate cats who love to be handled and cuddled, they are curious and clever kitties. And their soft voices are just one of the many interesting facts about birman cats.
4. Ragdoll
One of the most affectionate cat breeds, the ragdoll is a placid and docile kitty who thrives on human companionship. They get on beautifully with people of all ages and stages, making them a fantastic choice for families with children and seniors living alone. Lovable and gentle, they enjoy being cuddled and are always up for a nap on a cozy, warm lap. Loyal and devoted to their human family, they’re relaxed, undemanding and very quiet.
5. Bengal
They may be agile and active go-getters, but the Bengal is also surprisingly quiet in voice. Wilful, wild, mischievous, and entertaining, they’re brilliant family companions. However, while they adore their humans, they do best with experienced owners who have the time and energy to give them the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive. Curious and unpredictable, they love going on adventures and will happily walk on a leash. Just be sure to stock up on plenty of the best interactive cat toys for those days when it’s too wet to go outside.
6. Abyssinian
An active and playful feline who’s never happier than when surrounded by its humans, the mischievous and intelligent Abyssinian has a boisterous nature but communicates quietly in a chirpy voice. One fun fact about Abyssinian cats is that they can be content in their own company for short periods, separation anxiety in cats can be a problem with this breed if they’re left alone for too long so they’re best suited to homes where someone can be with them for much of the day.
7. Munchkin
They may have short legs but don’t let those fool you — this feline is fast on their feet when they need to be! Energetic, fun-loving the munchkin has a big personality and they retain their kittenish nature well into adulthood. One fact about Munchkin cats is that they are very curious cats, (they’re known to perch on their hind legs to get a good view of what’s going on around them), they’re one of the best cat breeds for extroverts due to their confident, outgoing and self-assured nature. While they’re active social butterflies, they’re not loud cats and tend to vocalize only when necessary.
8. Somali
If you’re looking for a docile lap cat, you’ll definitely want to walk right on by the Somali! This full-of-life kitty has bags of personality and they like to be the center of attention at all times, so prepare to have your life well and truly monopolized. Can cats play fetch? They certainly can if they’re a Somali. This feline is very dog-like in nature and fetch is one of their favorite games. While they are very energetic, they’re not particularly vocal, preferring to let their colorful and larger-than-life personality speak for them.
9. American Curl
With their distinctive (and super adorable) curled-back ears, the American Curl is a kitty that’s hard to miss. Their personality is often described as being infectious thanks to their playful, sweet, and loving nature and they’re incredibly people-oriented, meaning they rarely leave their human side. While they’re full of kitten-like energy well into adulthood, they’re quiet cats who are more likely to coo and chirrup as opposed to meow.
10. Norwegian Forest cat
A visually stunning cat with a huge thick coat that makes them look like a big ball of fluff, the Norwegian Forest cat is a quiet, gentle, friendly, and calm kitty that tends to get on well with children and other pets. All of these are reasons to love Norwegian Forest cats. Intelligent and alert, they crave human companionship but are very undemanding, preferring to let their people come to them. One of those rare cat breeds that like water, don’t be surprised if you find your wegie splashing about in the kitchen sink or attempting to join you in the bath!
11. Russian Blue
One thing to know about the Russian Blue cat is that they are a fan of the quiet life. Infrequent vocalizers who like their days to be filled with stability, predictability, and routine. While they’re very loving and affectionate, they have an independent streak which means they’re happy to be left alone for chunks of time and because they’re so cautious, you don’t need to worry about them getting into mischief. Sweet and loyal, these softly-spoken cats enjoy the company of their favorite humans but can be shy and aloof around strangers.
12. American Shorthair
A robust and powerful cat with a heart of gold, the American Shorthair has a gentle nature, making it ideal for families with young children. A few fun facts about the American Shorthair is that they are low maintenance and quiet, they’re known for their sweet and affectionate nature and while they are definitely easygoing and docile, they’re also intelligent, curious, and playful enough to make for entertaining companions.
13. Chartreux
A French feline with a reserved yet affectionate nature, the Chartreux values human companionship but doesn’t need constant attention. Calm and quiet cats with just a hint of silliness, they rarely speak instead using body language to communicate what it is they’re wanting. While some may find them aloof, they love their people dearly, they just prefer to sit and watch life from the sidelines rather than join in on all the action. If you’re looking for a low energy cat breed, the Chartreux is well worth considering.
14. Siberian
Sporting a luxurious triple coat that makes them one of the best cat breeds for cold climates, the Siberian has a dog-like personality and a friendly and patient temperament. A quiet breed who tends to make their presence known by purring rather than meowing, this kitty is affectionate and devoted and while not clingy, they prefer not to be left alone for long periods of time.
15. Pixiebob
While they may look like a wild cat, the pixiebob is a big softie who enjoys playing games and learning new things, so if you have a few tricks to teach your cat up your sleeve, they’ll certainly be up for the challenge. Sweet-tempered, easygoing, and quiet, the pixiebob is often referred to as an adventure cat because they’re known for their love of hiking and riding in motorcycle sidecars!
16. British Shorthair
With their teddy bear good looks and gentle nature, it's not hard to see why the British Shorthair is such a popular choice amongst cat lovers. A few facts about British Shorthair cats are that they are quiet, calm and easygoing, they have beautiful temperaments, managing to be active without being boisterous and loving without being demanding or clingy. They’re happy cats who both love attention and affection and enjoy time on their own, so if you’re in the market for a kitty that offers the best of all worlds, the British Shorthair is hard to beat.
17. Singapura
The smallest cat breed in the world, the singapura may be tiny but they’re big on personality. A playful cat known for its energetic nature, this family-loving feline is super social and thrives on companionship. Getting along beautifully with people of all ages and stages, they also live well with other cats and dogs as long as they’re introduced to them at an early age. They don’t like being left alone though, so if you plan on welcoming one of these mischievous little kitties into your home, it’s important that someone can be around to keep them company.
18. Cornish Rex
With their adorable curly coat, wedge-shaped head and big ears, the Cornish Rex is hard to miss. A breed that loves to run, climb, jump and play, these active and athletic cats do well in homes with one of the best cat trees to clamber up. They are happy to play independently or with their humans. The Cornish Rex may not be overly vocal but they’re a busy kitty who’s always on the go, which we think is one of the most interesting facts about Cornish Rex cats.
19. LaPerm
A gentle, companionable, and inquisitive cat, the LaPerm has an utterly charming personality that makes them a joy to have in the home. They’re incredibly affectionate cats and while very quiet in terms of vocalization, you’ll certainly know they’re around thanks to their very loud purr! True lap cats at heart, they’re never happier than when snuggled up with their human and because they love contact and are so laid back and chilled out, they thrive in homes with children and other pets.
20. Havana Brown
Known for their rich chocolate coat, the Havana Brown may have a name that would suggest they originated in Cuba, but they actually hail from England. Intelligent, affectionate, and very people-oriented, they get along well with humans of all ages and stages and enjoy the company of other pets too.
While they enjoy a good game of chase or fetch, they're not overly active and are always more than happy to chill out or follow their family members from room to room. They have quiet voices that are soft and chirpy and they tend to only vocalize when necessary.
21. Exotic shorthair
When you’re a short-haired version of the Persian, being quiet is baked right in! Sweet, relaxed, playful, and gentle, the exotic shorthair is often referred to as the lazy man’s Persian because you get all of the best traits of one without the excessive grooming requirements. Warm and easy to please, the exotic shorthair is a joy to be around. Plus they’re very loving and affectionate, so if you’re looking for ways to be the best cat owner, frequent cuddles will definitely get you there with this breed.
22. Nebelung
If you have a nebelung (or are thinking of getting one) and are looking for ways to bond with your cat, creating a home with lots of predictability, stability and routine is a great place to start. These shy, quiet, and calm cats have a very easygoing temperament while also being incredibly loyal and devoted to their human family.
Because of their subdued and introverted nature, they do very well in homes where they’re left alone for extended periods of time throughout the day — just be sure to leave out a few cat toys for them to amuse themselves with when they get a burst of playful energy.
23. Selkirk rex
Huggable kitties with plush coats, the selkirk rex is one curly-haired cutie. Upbeat and friendly cats that get along well with humans and other animals, they’re infrequent vocalizers making them a good choice for people who don’t want an incessant meower in the family! Super affectionate, they strike a good balance between being cuddly lap cats and fun-loving playmakers.
24. British Longhair
Similar to the British Shorthair in nature, this placid breed is drop-dead gorgeous with its big round eyes, sweet expression, and plush coat. Utterly charming, they’ll make a friend out of just about anybody, and they rarely (if ever) get worked up, preferring instead to spend their time attempting to set a new world record for the cat who can sleep the longest. One of the sleepiest cat breeds, don’t be surprised if the British Longhair has their eyes shut most of the day, but when they are awake they make for very loving and loyal companions.
25. European Shorthair
Total people-pleasers who love nothing more than making their humans happy and being by their side, the European Shorthair craves mental and physical stimulation and adores a good play session. Very adaptable and flexible, they thrive in almost any living situation and get on well with other pets — provided it’s understood they’re the leader of the pack. However, while they adore those they know, they can be shy around strangers and may hide until they feel safe to introduce themselves. The European Shorthair is an outstanding hunter, so if you plan on letting them outside, be warned that they may bring you back a mouse or bird from time to time!
26. Maine Coon
One of our favorite types of large breed cats, the Maine Coon is the ultimate gentle giant and while they are real family-oriented kitties, they tend to be quiet vocalizers, preferring to let their larger-than-life presence speak for them. Patient, tolerant, adaptable, and affectionate, they’ll be happy living just about anywhere but do particularly well in homes with children who they make wonderful playmates for.
27. American Wirehair
A calm and good-natured kitty who loves spending time with their humans, the social yet quiet American Wirehair wears a permanently sweet expression on its face. Independent enough to be content to do their own thing if you’re not around, this breed is playful, relaxed, patient and tolerant — making them an excellent choice if you have children.
28. Himalayan
What do you get if you cross a Siamese with a Persian? Why the striking Himalayan of course! Sporting the beautiful markings of their Siamese brothers and sisters and the gentle temperament of their Persian ancestors, the Himalayan is a cat that’s got it all going on. They are immensely popular with families thanks to their placid nature and while they adapt well to most environments and lifestyles, they are very much lap cats. Even-keeled and affectionate, expect your Himalayan to get along with just about anyone.
29. Ragamuffin
Once considered to be a variant of the ragdoll cat, the ragamuffin was established as its own breed in 1994. Large, long-bodied, and heavily boned, it is one of the gentlest, sweetest, and most tolerant of all the cat breeds. An outstanding companion for children, the ragamuffin is quite content to don a bonnet, sit in a pram and attend a tea party, or be carted around the house from one adventure to another. They are immensely lovable and joyous cats to have in the home and because they are undemanding and love sleeping on a warm lap, they’re also outstanding pets for seniors with limited mobility.
30. Burmilla
A cross between the Chinchilla Persian and the Burmese, the burmilla is a right little charmer and definitely one of the most social, easygoing, and good-natured cats you’ll ever meet. Learning how to play with a cat is well worth it if you have a burmilla in the house as this breed has a real zest for fun that sticks around long into adulthood. However, don’t worry, they won’t expect to be entertained all day and will quite happily spend hours on your lap or entertain themselves.
31. Chinchilla
The chinchilla is a breed from the Persian cat family, so it’s no surprise they possess the same placid, quiet, and gentle temperament. An easygoing feline who forms strong bonds with their humans, the chinchilla is an affectionate lap cat who’s quite happy to spend the day sleeping.
Because they thrive when close to their humans and need a lot of companionship, they’re best suited to homes where there’s always someone around who they can snuggle up to. While not the most active cats, they do enjoy regular play sessions, so it’s worth investing in a few toys that they can engage with when the mood strikes.
32. Manx
Completely dog-like in their devotion to their human family, the manx is an outstanding hunter with an active nature who thrives in the great outdoors. While they are social and enjoy the company of their people, they also have a wonderful independent streak which means they’re not bothered if you need to head out for the day — in fact, that works out rather well for them as it gives them plenty of uninterrupted time to hunt mice! Although their lack of tail is what tends to get people talking first, these cats are loved for their loyal, affectionate, and playful nature.
