Oh, Sh*t! You’ve Fallen in Love with a Cat Person!
The worst thing in the world has happened – ok, maybe the penultimate worst thing in the world has happened – you fell in love with a cat person. After (fill in your own age here) years of being a diehard dog person, is your life over? Is there no escaping the possibility that you will have to evolve from picking up poop (you are a responsible dog parent, after all) to scooping a litter box? If the answer to both of these questions is yes, we (with the help of others) might have a list of cat breeds that will meet the needs of a dog person AND more than likely will even get along with your dog!
In no particular order, Cat Breeds for Dog People:
- Siamese: Not just a pretty face or the subject of ridicule in Lady and the Tramp, these cats are affectionate, social, and trainable. While you might never have gotten your dog to play fetch, there’s a good chance you can get a Siamese cat to. One word of caution, these cats talk – a lot! If you’re not looking for yet another voice to nag you (not including your newfound love), this might not be the best option for you.
- Bengal: Looking for a cat that will spend the day interacting with you? A Bengal might be the answer. They are active, curious, inquisitive and “need” interaction. Like Siamese cats, they can be vocal – but generally only when they need something from you (they are still cats after all).
- Maine Coon: Coming in bigger than many a small dog, these cats are gentle and social, enjoying the company of adults, children (don’t get ahead of yourself in this new relationship), and other cats and dogs. Not sure about a Maine Coon? Check out Captain next time you’re at Cat Safari.
- Ragdoll: These may be the Newfoundlands of cats. With long (or semi-long) coats, these are generally relaxed cats who go with the flow, will engage with you when you want to engage but are equally good at just snoozing away a rainy afternoon while you watch sports (you haven’t given that up for this newfound love, have you?)
- Manx: Want a cat that acts like your golden retriever? A Manx is likely to walk around the house carrying a toy in its mouth. Want a cat who actually performs the task a terrier was meant for? Manx cats are known to be avid hunters; scrap that exterminator and have your cat do the job.
- Burmese: Outgoing, affectionate and athletic, a Burmese will go from walking across the top of your door to snuggling in your lap. Just don’t think you’ll be able to ignore this cat when it wants attention – but hey, you’re used to a paw across the face from your dog when it’s ready to play already.
There you are, 5 cat breeds that allow you to keep your dog lover pride intact as you try to explain to your friends why you fell for a cat lover. Got breeds we missed? Let us know. And yes, we know we owe you a list of dogs for cat people who fall for a dog person.
Thanks for reading
Source: Your Dog Dog, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, December 2022