Some cats are content to nap, snuggle, and politely purr in the sun. And then there are the others — the thrill-seekers, the sneak thieves, the ones who look you in the eye as they knock your glass off the table. These mischievous cats are smart, curious, and completely unbothered by rules.
If you’re looking for a feline companion who keeps life interesting (or want to know what kind of chaos you’re already living with), here are 15 cat breeds that take mischief to a whole new level.
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1. Bengal
Bengals are basically domestic cats with jungle-cat energy. They’re intelligent, hyper-athletic, and love to get into stuff. They’re known for opening doors, climbing to the highest possible point in the house, and getting bored very easily.
Left to their own devices, they’ll knock things off counters, raid your cupboards, and possibly figure out how to open your fridge. They need serious playtime, stimulation, and attention — otherwise, they’ll entertain themselves. And not in the way you want.
2. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are like little feline adventurers. If there’s a cupboard, shelf, or window ledge, they’ve already explored it. They’re constantly on the move, investigating everything — especially things they’re not supposed to. They’ll steal small objects, bat your jewellery under the fridge, and often act like they’re one step ahead of you. Mischief is their middle name — but they’re so charming, you’ll forgive them instantly.
3. Oriental Shorthair
Orientals are intelligent, talkative, and hilariously dramatic. They’ll announce their presence loudly, complain about your absence, and let you know if they disapprove of the food. They’re known for opening drawers, climbing curtains, and inserting themselves into everything you’re doing. Laptop open? They’re on it. Door closed? They’re trying to open it. You’ll never be alone — or unobserved — again.
4. Siamese
Siamese cats are clever, needy, and love to cause a scene. They crave attention and will do almost anything to get it — including knocking over your water, swatting your pen mid-email, or yelling from the other room just to make sure you’re still alive. They’re problem-solvers too, which means they can figure out how to escape baby gates, open cabinets, or dig food out of places it definitely shouldn’t be.
5. Sphynx
With no fur to shed, the Sphynx finds other ways to wreak havoc. They are energetic, clingy, and always into something. Whether they’re climbing into the fridge, stealing snacks, or trying to climb onto your shoulder while you’re in the middle of a call, the Sphynx is the definition of a tiny chaos goblin. They’re also heat-seekers, so expect to find them under blankets, in your laundry, or on your laptop — again.
6. Devon Rex
These little gremlins are full of energy, charm, and trouble. The Devon Rex is known for acrobatics, climbing furniture like a jungle gym, and launching themselves into your lap (or dinner plate). They’ll dig through drawers, steal your snacks, and chew on cords if you don’t give them something better to do. Mischievous? Absolutely. Lovable? Totally.
7. Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex cats are clever, fast, and often mistaken for living boomerangs. They’ll sprint through the house at top speed, leap onto counters in a single bound, and knock over anything in their path. They’re excellent at opening doors, unrolling toilet paper, and generally behaving like a toddler on espresso. If something’s gone missing or broken, they probably had something to do with it.
8. Turkish Van
Turkish Vans love water — which, on paper, sounds adorable. In practice? It means they’ll jump in your bath, try to catch the shower spray, and occasionally dip their paws into your drinking glass just for fun. They’re also notorious climbers and will launch themselves onto high places like cupboards and curtain rods. Mischievous, messy, and completely fearless.
9. Burmese
Burmese cats are energetic and love to play, but they also love to manipulate situations in their favour. They’ll fake innocence while stealing your food, push their way into bags and boxes, and try to charm visitors into feeding them again. They also enjoy dragging things around the house — socks, toys, the occasional bra. Don’t expect privacy or personal space with a Burmese around.
10. Scottish Fold
Despite their sweet, round appearance, Scottish Folds can be sneakily mischievous. They’re quiet, clever, and often get into things without making a sound — until you find your cereal box knocked over and your cat looking very smug. They’re known for figuring out where treats are kept and helping themselves. Their silent mischief is surprisingly effective.
11. Somali
Somalis are stunningly beautiful — and full of beans. They’re the long-haired cousins of the Abyssinian, so they come with the same playful, inquisitive personality. They love games, puzzles, and chasing things — and they will create chaos if they’re under-stimulated. Somalis will climb anything, unwrap gifts, and stalk your feet just for laughs.
12. Ocicat
Ocicats are smart, energetic, and love to play rough. They’ll race through the house, wrestle your shoes, and knock over anything in the way. They’re athletic and determined — nothing is safe, not even the top of your fridge. They’re also great at opening cabinets and finding ways into rooms they absolutely shouldn’t be in.
13. Tonkinese
Tonkinese cats are friendly, curious, and always involved. If you’re unpacking groceries, they’re in the bags. If you’re on a video call, they’re climbing your shoulder. They’ll steal food, chase invisible things, and somehow always find the one breakable item in the room to knock over. They’re like little comedians with a criminal streak.
14. Balinese
Elegant, talkative, and extremely clever, Balinese cats don’t just like attention — they demand it. If they feel ignored, they’ll cause mischief until you pay attention. That might mean unrolling the toilet paper, knocking things off shelves, or meowing non-stop at a closed door. They’re too smart for their own good and know exactly what buttons to push.
15. Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtails are energetic, playful, and love to interact with people — whether you’re ready or not. They’re into everything and will follow you around “helping” with your tasks. They’re excellent at finding toys (or turning random objects into them), jumping to high places, and opening drawers. A Bobtail in full mischief mode is a sight to behold — and hard to stop.
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Amanda created and owns The Discerning Cat. A lifelong cat lover she is the proud parent of two Siberian cats, Alexei and Vladimir. She is passionate about understanding cats and different cat breeds.