The 9 Least Affectionate Cat Breeds For First Time Owners

You’ve probably also heard the claim that cats are loners that can’t be trusted to offer their owners love. This, of course, is far from the truth, as we cat people well know because every cat breed has its unique characteristics and personality traits. In this article, I list down the nine least affectionate cat breeds. However, this does not mean that any of the cats on this list are heartless; they are simply less demonstrative of their affection than the other cat. 

9 least affectionate cat breeds for first time owners:

1. Singapura

Singapura is the world’s smallest cat breed. There is some debate concerning Singapura’s origins. According to the generally believed story, two American breeders named Tommy and Hal Meadow discovered the cats on the streets of Singapore and flew them back to the US in 1975.

Although Singapuras are small cats, they are very active. They like to get into trouble and are very smart. As a naturally athletic and curious cat, the Singapura requires mental and physical stimulation for optimal health. They are often interested in many things and will go out of their way to learn more. This type of cat loves to be the focus of their favorite people’s attention. Hence, Singapura does not like loud noise. Because they are sensitive to noise, loud sounds are one of the things that make them the least affectionate. Therefore, before getting a cat, you should always think about whether or not it is scared of the noise.

2. American wirehair

The American Wirehair cat breed is from New York and is still a rare cat breed. This breed generally has a peaceful, tranquil personality and significant energy for exploration and play. The character of an American Wirehair is described as “laidback,” meaning they happily play independently if they have toys. 

This Cat breed is ideal for owners with hectic schedules because it is not energetic or demanding of human care. They are self-sufficient but intelligent and loving. The fact that this breed is not noisy makes it ideal for owners living in apartments.

3. Bengal

The Bengal cat is a mix of the domestic cat and the wild Asian Leopard. This cat breed is exceedingly emotional and can remain furious or reclusive for extended periods. Because of its wild roots, this breed is particularly active, vocal, and smart. Because of their inquisitive curiosity, they can be quite independent. Bengals are not lapped cats and are considered the least affectionate, yet they show owners their love by being active and lively.

4. Egyptian Mau

According to the feline genome results published on Pentascope, the Egyptian Mau breed comes from Maine Coon, Korat, and American Turkish Angoras. But Jean Mill, an American cat breeder, also made minor changes to the breed. This domestic cat breed is considered the least affectionate because they don’t like strangers. This cat breed is also very fierce, as they don’t want other people touching their toys and will growl at them if they do.

Maus are affectionate when they are with their owners, but when they are around strangers, they are very quiet and reserved. Don’t be surprised if you have guests and a Mau hides under the couch until they leave. According to animal specialists, this breed type’s coldness toward strangers derives from its shyness.

5. Korat

The Korat breed came from Asia, and Thailand in particular. Because Korats want to be in charge of their dog, cat, or human family, their catlike behavior is seen as dominant. Korats can also be arrogant, and they like their kind is likely one of the things that makes them the least affectionate. Given this cat behavior, Korats are incredibly affectionate with their owners.

If you raise them in noisy surroundings, they will likely acquire tension or anxiety, ultimately shortening their lifespan. This cat will also love it if you keep the television, radio, and music system volume level down. Moreover, they do not interact with children but are outspoken breeds who will express themselves if they do not get what they want.

6. British shorthair

The British shorthair breed originates in the United Kingdom. It is often sweet and playful. If you have other cats, this cat breed will love playing outside with them and will not seek your attention. You can leave this breed alone at home during the day, and it will be just fine. The nature of British shorthairs to act independently without requiring human care causes most people to view them as least affectionate.

7. Cymric

The Cymric, one of the oldest cat breeds, is a long-haired variant of the Manx. It is unique because it has little tails. This breed is tailless as a result of a natural genetic mutation that occurred early in its history. However, the characteristic is associated with spinal abnormalities most prominent in recklessly raised cats.

Cymric felines are clever and playful. Some have even been observed playing fetch with toys. It has a dog-like behavior since it enjoys growling and playing fetch. Their moderate personality is reserved and shy, particularly among strangers, dogs, and children. Consequently, this Cat is the least affectionate of all cats.

8. Russian blue

It is believed that Russian blues originated on Archangel Island (Arkhangelsk) in northern Russia, where they were formerly known as Archangel cats. These beautiful felines are kind and gentle. While Russian blues can be reserved around strangers, they are devoted to their owners. They are highly smart cats that can detect a person’s thoughts and act appropriately.  As a result, they are distant and unaffectionate towards strangers, as they want to ensure that a person is not a danger.

9. Norwegian forest cat

The Norwegian forest cat is an old breed that evolved in Norway’s forests without human intervention over many centuries. A Norwegian Forest Cat is highly recommended if you want a reserved cat that will not require much attention. Norwegian forest cats have an independent nature and prefer to play at their own pace.

The Norwegian forest cat will not spend the entire night on your lap, but it may occasionally jump up for a little hug. In no way does this imply that the Norwegian forest cat has a cold personality. They will frequently be positioned near a cat tree or scratching post, viewing and enjoying the scenery.

9 least affectionate cat breeds overview

Breed	Height	Weight	Coat	Color	Personality	Lifespan
1. Singapura	9-12 inches	4-8 lbs	Short and glossy	Sepia agouti	Energetic and intelligent	11-15 years
2. American Wirehair	Up to 15 inches	Up to 8 lbs	Medium length	Variety of colors	Quiet, affectionate, shy with strangers, energetic, and playful	Up to 20 years
3. Bengal	Up to 18 inches	12-20 lbs	Short and long length	Variety of colors	Emotional, active, vocal, and smart	Up to 15 years
4. Egyptian Mau	8-14 inches	6-14 lbs	Medium length	Variety of colors	Playful, active, devoted, and loyal	12-15 years
5. Korat	15-18 inches	6-10 lbs	Short length	Blue-gray with silver tips	Demanding, outspoken, and affectionate to their owners	15-19 years
6. British Shorthair	22-25 inches	7-17 lbs	Short and very dense. Not double coated or woolly	Solid and a variety of pattern colors	Independent and playful	12-16 years
7. Cymric	Up to 18 inches	Up to 12 lbs	Long	Variety of colors except for chocolate and lavender	Clever and playful	Up to 15 years
8. Russian Blue	Up to 24 inches	Up to 12 lbs	Short	Steel blue	Friendly and intelligent but aloof, maybe reclusive around strangers	Up to 20 years
9. Norwegian Forest Cat	Up to 36 inches	Up to 18 lbs	Long hair with a dense undercoat	Variety of colors	Independent and adventurous	Up to 16 years

Conclusion

These cat breeds are generally the least affectionate. Although, depending on how a cat was socialized, you will occasionally notice differences, as is expected. However, before judging these breeds, you should evaluate why they behave this way and attempt to be more understandable as a cat owner. For instance, even the most affectionate cat breed may be aloof to people if she was raised in an abusive setting.

Likewise, a cat from the least affectionate cat breeds list may show overwhelming love and affection to people if they have established a strong connection with them since birth. You can always hold your cat’s love by giving them more treats, tasty food, time to play, be resourceful, and give them hugs. Remember that they may not be mean to you because they don’t like you, just that these breeds are the least likely to turn into lap cats in your home.

FAQs

Why are some cats less affectionate?

Most of the time, this is because cats have different personalities. But some cats may be less affectionate because they didn’t spend enough time with people when they were young. A cat’s behavior and personality are shaped by its genes and what it does as a kitten.

Why are some cats antisocial?

Experts on cats believe people think cats are not friendly because of how they were raised. Domestication of cats occurred more slowly and much later than that of dogs.