18 Super Cool Cat Breeds

Let’s face it – cats are inherently cool. The Urban Dictionary defines cool as “being yourself and not caring how other people view you say or do.” I would say this is a characteristic that cats embody. I can’t imagine my cat Alexei being anyone but himself! And there are many more examples of cool cat breeds like Alexei out there.

It can be difficult to define the characteristics of what is being cool versus giving examples of cool things or people. But Bustle had a shot at it and these seemed like particularly cool cat characteristics to me:

• Independent
• Don’t Try Hard to Impress Others
• Always Confident
• Know What They Stand for

So which are the coolest cat breeds on the block?

18 Coolest Cat Breeds

From the weird, wonderful, and super adorable, there are many cool cat breeds out there. It was hard to limit them to just 18, but let’s dive in.

1. Siberian Cats

As my cat Alexei is a Siberian, this cat breed had to be on the top of the list. Firstly, this breed is Russian – of course from Siberia, so that adds an element of cool.

Alexei absolutely knows what he stands for, is always confident, and doesn’t try hard to impress anyone. He is a little less independent as this is a very affectionate breed that prefers to be around people.

My own feline friend, Alexei, is a Siberian, so I’m particularly partial to this amazing breed. They have a thick, luxurious coat with stunning coat colors such as grey. Then there’s also the affectionate personality of the Siberian. These kitties are well-suited to any home.

They’re laid-back but enjoy playing, and are very attached to their humans. You’ll often find your Siberian cat following along behind you and cuddling up as soon as you take a seat.

As you may expect, this loving cat comes from Siberia in Russia, so they’re well suited to cold conditions. It’s an ancient breed thought to be ancestral to all modern long-haired cats. That’s quite the pedigree.

2. British Shorthair Cats

The British Shorthair is a particularly laid-back breed of cat and is very independent.

The British Shorthair cat is a medium to large-sized cat breed with large gold, orange, or copper color eyes, a short, broad nose, and a short to medium coat. There are also many gorgeous British Shorthair coat colors. Daily grooming of these felines is necessary, especially during seasonal changes.

These lovely kitties are highly intelligent; however, they are still happy to stay inside and play with toys and people. Get some wand-like toys and start a game with your British Shorthair cat; it can be great fun.

This indoor cat breed has an easygoing personality and provides great companionship. While these cats love to play, they don’t require hourly attention.

3. Persian Cats

Despite a seemingly high-maintenance fluffy exterior, Persians are quite an independent breed of cat and happy doing their own thing.

Blue Persians are fluffy grey cats. Persian cats are affectionate, docile, and gentle kitties. This breed has a quiet demeanor; they plop down on any soft surface and simply pose for your appreciation – little supermodels. They’re definitely a lap cat breed and will sit down on your lap at any given chance.

These elegant cats are not very active, which makes them the perfect indoor pet.

Persians have a relatively small face so their big round eyes are particularly prominent. Most Persians have gorgeous blue eyes but there can be exceptions – or some who have a different color in each eye. Their eyes can be particularly striking against a blue or grey coat. Persians require proper grooming to keep their coats beautiful and fluffy.

Although affectionate, Persian cats are discriminative and reserve their attention for family and a few trusted guests.

This beautiful flat-faced cat breed does get along with children and other household pets; however, they aren’t fans of loud environments but rather serene homes where little changes.

4. Norwegian Forest Cat

Scandinavian and from a forest – this is one on-trend breed of kitty! Whilst the Norwegian Forest Cat loves to play it is also very happy to hang out on its own and won’t follow you around when you get home.

Larger than your average cat, the Norwegian Forest Cat Breed are rather elegant kitties. They have long legs and bushy tails that are often as long as their bodies.

When their coat has fully come in they are a sight to behold. They often come out in a full mane, fluffy chest, furry legs, and even tufts of fur between their toes.

Norwegian forest cat with green eyes

As a result, these friendly cats do require daily grooming, so it’s good to learn how to groom your cat properly. Their ears also often get tufts of fur that need to be groomed. The Norwegian Forest Cat actually has a double coat with one being weatherproof.

5. Russian Blue Cat Breed

Another Russian breed! These sleek grey kitties are also independent Russians at heart.

With emerald-green eyes and a luxurious silvery coat, Russian Blues are a startlingly pretty breed. When the light hits their coat just right, it seems like you’re the proud owner of a cool blue cat, hence their names. The Russian Blue is sweet-tempered and fine-featured, with long legs that allow it to run at high speeds.

Those green eyes are large, round, and wide-set. This is another cat breed that constantly looks like it is wide awake! Russian Blue cats are born with yellow eyes which turn green over time.

This expensive cat breed really enjoys playing and requires a good bit of attention when you get home. Although, they do enjoy napping in a quiet corner and tend to shy away from large groups.

Often demanding at mealtimes, these happy felines can get quite chunky if you’re not firm. Russian Blue cats are another very intelligent breed, so it’s important to provide enough mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy.

6. Egyptian Mau

Just look at this gorgeous and exotic breed! They’re Egyptian – home of all things cat – and have a fantastic uncommon spot pattern that begs to be on a catwalk and they are the fastest of all house cats. It has a medium-sized but muscular build, with longer hind legs.

Egyptian Mau cats prefer heat and are quite sensitive to temperature. So if you live somewhere very cold, keep this in mind.

With a balanced temperament and a preference for activity, it’s best to have a large garden for your Mau cat. They’re very loyal and cheerful, and love snuggles. Smart enough to turn on the faucet, Egyptian Mau cats also love playing with water.

7. Sphynx

How can a hairless cat not be one of the coolest cats? This unusual breed looks like it could have come from another world and definitely would hang out with hipsters. These medium-sized cats have a striking appearance with hairless, wrinkled skin and large ears.

It is also known for the somewhat intense gaze that it emits from its large eyes. As another breed with minimal hair, those large eyes stand out even more on the Sphynx cat.

Though Sphynx cats appear to look bald, they may be covered in a small amount of peach fuzz, giving them that velvety texture. However, they do require moderate grooming to care for their hairless bodies as they do not have fur to absorb the natural oils their body produces. If you’re in the market for a cool-looking cat, then a Sphynx should be first on your list.

What the Sphynx cat breed lacks in fur, they make up for in their personality. These hairless kitties are sociable, energetic, and love to play. The curious kitties are mischievous and are fond of teaser toys and puzzle toys to challenge them.

8. Savannah

One of the most expensive cat breeds, the Savannah cat is a fabulous mix of a genuinely wild cat (serval) and a domestic cat. This gives them very stylish cheetah markings on their coats.

This magnificent kitty is also exceptionally large and ranks as the world’s tallest cat breed – definitely supermodel territory. This is another one to add to your list of coolest looking cats.

Savannahs are so costly due to their breeding. It takes luck – and often a number of years – to mate a serval and a domesticated cat.

They bond with only a few people and are known to be very loyal. They’re very inquisitive and have an impressive ability to jump – even onto fridges and high walls. They have quite a strong hunting instinct, so if you keep birds or fish, your Savannah cat will likely eye them daily.

Because of this hunting instinct, it’s important to look at your country and city’s ownership laws before you decide to invest in this feline. Some areas have restrictive laws because these large cats can threaten native species.

9. Devon Rex

These kitties are just plain funky looking! Their tail comes with a curve, they have fantastic big ears, and have unique short curly hair on their sinewy bodies. I feel like this breed would really enjoy listening to jazz.

The mischievous Devon Rex cat, also known as the pixie cat, is a loving and loyal feline breed. They make the ideal companions and welcome family and friends’ attention, as well as being great with kids and other pets.

This cat breed emerged in England during the late 1950s and is similar to the nearby Cornish Rex cat breed.

These felines are intelligent, active, and require regular stimulation. Devon Rex cats are jumpers, and their favorite place is at head level, so perches and cat trees should be provided.

Devon Rex cat under plant looking up

The moderately active cat enjoys learning and playing fetch, so interactive toys will also help keep him occupied while you’re out earning money.

This indoor cat breed has slender bodies with long legs, large eyes, and high cheekbones. They shouldn’t be brushed as their fur is prone to breakage; instead, rub the Devon Rex cat gently with a cloth to keep them well-groomed, weekly.

10. Munchkin

The Munchkin cat is everyone’s favorite cutie. With teeny tiny short little legs and normal-sized bodies, these diverse cats are absolutely adorable and perfect for a handbag.

The munchkin’s dog counterpart is undoubtedly the sausage dog, as they share the short-legged trait. This is why these little felines are also called the “sausage cat”.

Considered the original dwarf cat, the Munchkin cat breed is not exclusive and can be linked to a number of other breeds. For example, you can find a Scottish fold munchkin cat or even a Maine coon munchkin cat. It’s all about that short-legged gene mutation.

There is quite a lot of controversy surrounding these sweet-looking felines, as there is concern over potential health and mobility issues. They were not considered an official breed for many years and were not allowed to take part in feline competitions.

Even today, there are a number of councils and associations that do not recognize the Munchkin cat breed.

However, most sources say that the shortness of their legs does not affect the Munchkin’s running and leaping abilities. Also, they are not generally found to have more joint or bone problems than other cat breeds. So, if you are passionate about their little legs, your ethics needn’t be compromised.

The personalities of Munchkin cats are generally sweet, outgoing, and intelligent. They also respond well to being handled, which is lovely, as you’ll undoubtedly want to hold these cuties all day long.

11. Japanese Bobtail

This sweet and loving breed of course originates from Japan. Apparently in the 1600s, Japanese street cats were bobtails. The breed is considered to be lucky and its owners should prosper.

Statues of tricolor Japanese Bobtail cats are quite common in Japan (these are supposed to be the luckiest Japanese Bobtails of all!). So when you see the familiar statue with the kitty raising its paw up and down you now know that you are looking at a Japanese bobtail cat.

The breed is named bobtail due to its short and stubby tail. They were also adored by the Japanese Imperial family and still have a regal air. This means that your home – and the items within it – are part of their Kingdom.

I loved this quote that I found on Wikipedia about Japanese Bobtail cats: German doctor Engelbert Kaempfer wrote, “There is only one breed of cat that is kept. It has large patches of yellow, black, and white fur; its short tail looks like it has been bent and broken. It has no mind to hunt for rats and mice but just wants to be carried and stroked by women.” Now that sounds like one cool kitty!

12. Chartreux Cat Breed

The Chartreux cat is known as one of the most polite breeds – not a word normally associated with cats! This is one kitty that doesn’t like to complain and will be not just your friend but a friend to any guests as well.

This French cat can be traced back to ancient Persia and was believed to have come to France from those returning from the Crusades. Many took up residence in monasteries, which is believed to be the breed’s origin.

One of the reasons that the Chartreux is rare is that it is also an expensive cat breed with average prices for a Chartreux kitten between USD $1000 and $1500. So French, rare, and expensive – this is one awesome cat breed.

This rare cat breed is a great option for a busy person who lives on their own or a busy couple/family. It likes to play but this desire generally comes in spurts. And this is a breed that is quite good at entertaining itself.

13. Peterbald Cat Breed

The Peterbald cat is a strange little fellow. With hairless, grey-silver skin, a slanted face, and large pointy ears, this Russian cat breed has certainly earned its place on this list.

Created from experimental breeding, this cat first popped its head out in 1994, at St. Petersburg. This is why it’s named Peterbald (I’m sure you can guess where the bald part comes from). And one of the main reasons is that this is quite a rare cat breed.

Originally a cross between a hairless Donskoy and an Oriental Shorthair, these cats quickly grew in popularity in their home country.

Since Peterbald cats don’t have any fur to keep them warm, they need to be kept indoors during the cooler seasons, as they might otherwise get too chilly. Another one to add to the coolest looking cat breeds list, as they’re cool in more than one way.

They require a little bit more cat care than other breeds because they need to be bathed weekly in order to keep their coats from getting oily and attracting dirt.

These cool cats have wonderfully affectionate personalities and are often found shadowing their loved ones. Peterbald cats love attention and are very active in general, as well as loyal and loving. Their personalities are regularly likened to that of canines.

So if you haven’t decided whether you’re more of a cat or a dog person, the Peterbald is a great choice of cat companion and it is unlikely that you’ll find many other examples of this cool cat breed in your neighborhood!

14. Sokoke Cat Breed

This lean, medium-sized tabby cat is often referred to as the rarest cat breed in the world. The breed was developed in the 1970s in Kenya.

The Sokoke cat breed is based on the khadzonzo breed which roams coastal Kenya freely. The West discovered them in the late 1970s. At that point, they were nearly extinct.

These kitties are very active and like to climb. They bond closely with their humans as well as any other cats and can be quite vocal. They are better suited to warmer climates.

15. Ashera

The Ashera is another new and rare cat breed. The breed developed from cross-breeding the African Serval Cat and the Asian leopard cat – some seriously cool credentials. This beautiful kitty has contrasting stripes and spots.

This is a big cat breed – Ashera cats can reach 4 feet tall when on their hind legs. This breed loves to climb and play. They can also be trained to go on walks.

As the Ashera breed comes from warm climate breeds, they may need more warmth in the winter if you live in a cold climate. And whilst the Ashera may be one of the most expensive cat breeds in the world, they have an average life span of 25 years. This is considerably longer than most other cat breeds so you will get your money’s worth in the amount of time you have to love your Ashera cat.

16. Minskin Cat Breed

Minskin cats have quite stocky bodies and are cats with short legs. Their coat is unique due to its lack of fur. The Minskin breed was created from the Sphynx cat breed. This is a relatively new breed of cat. It was first developed in 1998 in Boston.

The breeder crossed his Munchkin cat with a Sphynx for a healthier immune system. By 2005, 50 cats could be called Minskins and this new breed was recognized. As you will have seen throughout this post, rare cat breeds are often quite new, meaning they have yet to breed extensively.

17. Cornish Rex Cat Breed

The Cornish Rex cat has a head shaped like a triangle. As a result, its eyes and ears are prominent and large. The eyes of the Cornish Rex cat tend to be golden, although that can vary.

The Cornish Rex cat breed has no hair apart from some down. Their coat is very fine and can sometimes get a bit of a curl. The lack of fur can emphasize those big eyes and ears even more.

This big-eared cat breed is often compared to greyhound dogs due to their sleek appearance and they like a long, lolling run. This very adventurous breed loves to explore and will keep its playful demeanor long after its kitten days are finished.

18. Lykoi Cat

This interesting feline strongly resembles the popular imagery of a werewolf. With shorter and lighter fur around their mouth, nose, and eyes, an interesting design is made that accentuates their features in a werewolf-like way.

The scraggly salt and pepper fur of the Lykoi cat adds to the idea of a little beasty. Their name was derived from the Greek word for wolves, which strengthens their claim to werewolf status.

However, the Lykoi cat shares only physical resemblances to this famed mythical creature. These cats have lovely temperaments and are generally playful, affectionate, and loyal. So they make wonderful, striking pets.

Another interesting fact about the Lykois cat is that they sometimes lose all of their fur, resulting in them looking like a Sphynx cat. However, they grow the fur back. Or at least, most of it!

Though their occasional lack of fur and bald spots on their face appear to be similar to the Sphynx, they do not have the Sphynx/Devon Rex gene. Instead, they are related to the Domestic Shorthair cat.

When originally discovered, in 2011, there was concern that the strange coats of the Lykoi cats were the result of a medical condition. But they were found to be completely healthy, and their fur was simply the result of a genetic mutation. It’s a mutation that we’re thankful for because these cats are strange and one of the loveliest weird cat breeds.