19 Beautiful Cat Breeds You’ll Fall in Love With

As they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. When it comes to cats, feline fans will quickly tell you that every kitty is beautiful in its own way. But let’s be honest; some breeds are so uniquely gorgeous that they’re bound to turn heads wherever they go.

Every entry on this list has distinctive, striking features that earn them the honor of being considered beautiful cat breeds. If you’re thinking about getting a cat or adding another one to your household, you might just find your next bestie here. 

So, get ready to fall head over heels and say “Aww!” countless times.

19 Beautiful Cat Breeds

By now, you’re probably excited to find out which kitties are seen as the most beautiful in the world. Let’s get into it and discover the 19 most beautiful cat breeds.

1. Russian Blue

Russian Blue in the garden

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The Russian Blue is arguably one of the most beautiful grey cat breeds out there. These fabulous felines have silky, charcoal-colored fur with a silver tint in their coat. Add to this their piercing green eyes, and it’s clear why these kitties deserve a spot on this list.

Besides their gorgeous looks, they’re also beloved for their intelligent personalities. They’re well-behaved, playful, and keen to pick up new tricks. You might even find your kitty dropping toys (or, if you’re unlucky, a rodent they caught) at your feet, hoping you’ll throw it for them.

2. Ragdoll Cat

Ragdoll Cat sitting on a crate

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The Ragdoll cat might be your new bestie if you’re looking for a gorgeous, chilled-out companion who loves to lazily lounge around or cuddle on your lap. These sweethearts have plush, soft fur that comes in white, orange, and tabby shades. 

This beautiful breed’s show-stopping feature is their baby blue eyes — you won’t be able to resist when they bat their lashes, asking for a treat or attention. These kitties are docile, even-tempered, affectionate, and will get along with just about anybody.

3. Siberian Cat

My Siberian cats Alexei and Vladimir

The next beautiful cat breed hails all the way from Russia’s snowy plains. The Siberian cat is huge and has dense, furry coats that allow it to thrive in colder climates. I may be somewhat biased towards Siberians as I own two, Alexei and Vladimir. These beautiful kitties actually come in over 200 unique and distinct colors and patterns.

They’re playful and will follow you around all day long, so they make absolutely fantastic companions. Siberian cats do have a slightly wild and independent streak, though, so don’t be surprised if your furry friend disappears on an adventure or hunting trip for a few days. Alexei knows more of our neighbours than I do!

4. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex sleeping

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The Cornish Rex is both beautiful and rare, and some may also say it’s a weird-looking cat breed. These kitties have a triangle-shaped head and high cheekbones that make their eyes and ears look even larger than it is, giving them their distinctive looks.

Another thing that sets the Cornish Rex apart is their unusual coat. They have soft, lamb-like hair that can sometimes have a bit of a curl. They might look serious, but these felines are known for being adventurous, affectionate, and retaining a kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood.

5. Bombay Cat

Bombay Cat sitting on a couch

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With their sleek jet-black coats and striking golden green eyes, you won’t be too far off if you think the Bombay cat looks like a miniature panther. This beautiful black cat breed might look like a wildcat, but they have the personality of a friendly housecat.

Bombays are playful and active and will demand loads of attention as they’re very people-centered. You’ll likely often find your kitty perched on a windowsill peering at the street, as they have an extremely alert and curious nature.

6. Abyssinian

Abyssinian mom and kitten in a lounge

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When it comes to gorgeous orange cat breeds, few are as graceful, unique, and dignified as the Abyssian. These elegant felines are one of the oldest breeds in the world and are believed to have originated in Egypt. Their coats are generally deep, rich orange or brown, with a silky and smooth texture that is easy to maintain.

These beautiful kitties love to be around humans and are intelligent and curious. With a bit of extra effort and training, you’ll be able to teach your Abyssian some cool party tricks that they will gladly show off to guests.

7. Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Forest Cat in a tree

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When it comes to big, beautiful felines, the Norwegian Forest cat is the largest of them all. Norse mythology tells the tale of Freya, a Viking goddess who rode into battle on a carriage drawn by large cats that experts believe were Norwegian Forest cats.

These days, they’re popular family cats that will get along with kids and other pets. They’re strong-willed and independent but will also grab every opportunity for a cuddle with both paws. Be ready, though — they’re keen hunters, so you can expect to be gifted a mouse from time to time.

8. Sphynx

Sphynx Cat posing for the camera

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The hairless Sphynx might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there is no denying its regal appeal. This bald and beautiful feline may look elegant and sophisticated, but they’re playful, quirky, and goofy companions that make great family pets.

Sphynx cats are also known for their vocal nature and will happily chirp away as they follow you around the house. What makes them even more appealing is that they’re mostly hypoallergenic, so if you suffer from allergies, this is the breed for you.

9. Siamese Cat

Siamese Cat looking into the camera

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A beautiful breed that needs no introduction is the Siamese cat. With their signature silky cream-colored coats and chocolatey markings, even dog people instantly recognize these popular cuties. 

Siamese cats are one of the most social and affectionate cat breeds, and they absolutely love human interaction. They’re known to be intelligent, vocal, playful, and elegant felines. 

Just keep in mind that these sweethearts can be a bit sensitive and will easily get spooked if you raise your voice even just a little.

10. Scottish Fold

Blue-eyed Scottish Fold

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With their small, folded ears, silvery gray color, and soulful eyes, the Scottish Fold is one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. It’s not just their looks that make them so adored, though — their personalities are just as lovely as their appearance. Scottish Folds are loving, outgoing, quiet, and just outright charming.

These kitties are so sweet and beautiful that they even steal the hearts of our favorite celebrities. Two of Taylor Swift’s cats are Scottish Folds, and her 271 million Instagram followers will agree that this breed deserves a spot on the list.

11. Birman

Birman Cat posing for the camera

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Sweet, precious, delicate, and gentle are just a few of the words commonly associated with the gorgeous Birman cat. These pretty puffballs usually have snow-white fur and socked feet, with color points in shades of blue, chocolate, and lilac.

The Birman’s shimmering coat and lush, fluffy tail are softer than a cashmere sweater, and the best part is that they need much less grooming than other long-haired breeds. These sensitive sweethearts are quiet and docile but still active and playful enough that they get along with kids and make lovely family pets.

12. Ocicat

Ocicat posing for the camera

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If you love animal print, the next three beautiful breeds on this list are bound to be your favorites.

First up — the Ocicat, a rare, gorgeous feline that looks like it came straight out of the jungle. They were created accidentally after crossing a Siamese and Abyssian, resulting in their golden, spotted pattern and affectionate, domesticated nature.

This graceful breed’s coats are always spotted, but they come in various colors, ranging from tan to cinnamon and deep orange. Although they’re rare, the Ocicat makes a delightful family breed with their playful, cuddly, and gentle personalities.

13. Bengal Cat

Bengal Cat looking a the camera

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Staying on the topic of animal print, next up, we have a beautiful cat breed that looks just like a tiny leopard. The Bengal cat’s spotted, stripy coat indicates its wild roots — they were bred by crossing the small, endangered Asian Leopard cat with a domestic cat.

This jungle kitty might resemble their dangerous, large counterparts, but they’re curious, sweet, loving, and gentle, forming incredibly close bonds with their humans. They’re more athletic and active than your average house cat, though, so you’ll have to provide them with lots of exercise and plenty of cat chew toys to keep them entertained.

14. Toyger

Toyger lying on the ground

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As the name suggests, the Toyger cat resembles an adorably tiny tiger with their coloring and stripes. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of having an exotic big cat in your home, a Toyger is the ideal breed for you.

This exceptionally rare cat breed was created in the 1980s in the United States by crossbreeding Bengal and domestic cats, so they have no ‘wild’ blood. These kitties have a calm, affectionate, and sweet demeanor, making them a lovely addition to multi-pet families.

15. Maine Coon

Maine Coon in the garden

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Maine Coon cats are instantly recognizable by their large size and majestic appearance. These beautiful fluff balls come in over 70 different colors, most commonly including white, brown, orange, or gray accents.

Even though they might look intimidating to some, Maine Coons are actually gentle giants. They are very intelligent, easygoing, and low-maintenance. Surprisingly, unlike most other cats, they thoroughly enjoy splashing around in water, so keeping their glorious coats clean isn’t a difficult task.

16. Turkish Angora

Turkish Angora lying on blue silk linen

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Another beautiful kitty that strangely enjoys splashing around in water is the beautiful Turkish Angora. These felines most often have shimmering white fur, but they also come in shades of black, brown, gray, tortoiseshell, and tuxedo.

Turkish Angoras are graceful, self-sufficient, talkative, and are popular for their cheerful and personable nature. Because they’re intelligent and active, you’ll need to make sure your kitty gets lots of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from destructive behaviors when they get bored.

17. Persian Cat

Persian Cat sitting in the garden

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With their long, thick fur, flat faces, expressive eyes, and magnificent whiskers, how can the Persian cat not be on this list of beautiful cat breeds? These pampered kitties make fantastic indoor cats, as they’re generally mellow and prefer to laze around.

As you can imagine, these fluffy felines will leave trails of fur all over your home, furniture, and clothes. They’re a rather high-maintenance breed, so just be prepared for lots of grooming with a quality cat brush to keep their coats looking majestic.

18. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthair lying on a chair

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How can you not fall in love with an adorable smushed-face kitty? The Exotic Shorthair is a relative of the Persian cat and was specifically bred to have shorter, denser coats that are lower-maintenance than those of their Persian family.

These beautiful kitties still share similar features and personality traits with their fluffier counterparts. They also come in various colors, including chocolate, orange, gold, and tortoiseshell patterns. 

Exotic Shorthairs are usually easygoing, gentle, affectionate, and will gladly snuggle with you all night.

19. American Curl

American Curl kitten sitting on a table

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Last but not least on the list of beautiful cat breeds is the quirky and adorable American Curl. These cuties have fluffy, backward-curling ears caused by a natural gene mutation that gives them their unique appearance.

As if they weren’t cute enough already, these felines earned themselves the nickname of “Peter Pan cats,” as they retain kitten-like, playful personalities well into adulthood. They love to play, climb trees, explore, and follow their humans around to see what you’re getting up to.

Beautiful Cat Breeds Wrapped Up

So, there you have it, the most beautiful cat breeds in the world. Which of these fabulous felines stole your heart? If your answer is all of them, that’s absolutely understandable. Whichever types of cat breeds fill you with delight, you can’t deny that these kitties are all irresistibly adorable.