If you think cats are all aloof, solo creatures, think again! Some breeds crave company so much that being alone can make them downright blue. Whether it’s a feline friend, a playful pup, or a doting human, these cats thrive on togetherness and may even get depressed without a buddy. Dive into this whisker-twitching gallery of social kitties and discover a few surprises along the way—maybe you’ll spot the perfect furry friend for your own family!
Ragdoll: The Ultimate Cuddle Buddy
Ragdolls are famous for their floppy, relaxed bodies and gentle personalities. These blue-eyed beauties adore being part of the action and will follow you from room to room just to stay close. If left alone too long, a Ragdoll can get anxious or even sad, much like a toddler missing their favorite toy. They love snuggling with both people and other pets, so a feline or canine companion helps keep their spirits high. Think of a Ragdoll as your living, purring weighted blanket—they’ll soak up all the love you can give and always want more. Without a buddy, they might mope or become destructive out of loneliness. You’ll quickly realize: Ragdolls are happiest in pairs!
Burmese: Social Butterflies in Fur Coats
Burmese cats just can’t get enough attention. Outgoing and chatty, they love to be the life of the party and hate being left out of anything—including your daily routines. These playful, affectionate kitties can become lonely and even depressed if left solo for long periods. A Burmese is like that friend who always wants to hang out, rain or shine. They thrive in households with other pets or kids who can match their boundless energy and curiosity. If you want a cat that acts more like a loyal dog than a mysterious feline, the Burmese is your perfect match. Just be prepared for a constant sidekick!
Siamese: Talkative Companions Who Hate Silence
Siamese cats are famous for their vocals, and they’ll let you know if they’re feeling lonely or bored. These elegant, blue-eyed charmers bond deeply with their humans and fellow pets. When left alone, they might yowl or engage in mischief just to get your attention. Siamese cats thrive on interaction and need a playmate to keep their minds busy. If you’ve ever had a Siamese, you know the house feels emptier when they’re not around—imagine how they feel without a buddy! Their need for companionship isn’t just a quirk; it’s essential to their happiness and well-being.
Sphynx: The Naked Truth About Needing Friends
Don’t let their hairless appearance fool you—the Sphynx has a heart as warm as their skin! These affectionate cats crave companionship, both from people and fellow animals. Sphynxes are notorious for curling up with other pets to share body heat and affection. Leave them alone too long, and you’ll come home to a sulky, pouty kitty who just wants to snuggle. Their playful antics are even more fun with a buddy to chase, wrestle, or nap beside. If you’re looking for a cat that’ll be glued to your side—or tangled up with another pet—the Sphynx is a top contender.
Abyssinian: Born to Play in a Team
Abyssinians are full of energy and curiosity, always ready for the next adventure. These athletic cats love games, puzzles, and exploring every nook and cranny. But here’s the catch—they don’t want to do it alone! Abyssinians need a partner in crime, whether that’s another cat or a patient dog. Without companionship, they can become bored, which often leads to destructive behavior or even depression. If you imagine a marathon runner stuck in a tiny room, you’ll get how an Abyssinian feels by themselves. Double the kitties means double the fun—and a much happier Abyssinian!
Scottish Fold: Sweet, Sensitive, and Social
Those adorable folded ears aren’t the only unique thing about Scottish Folds—their need for social interaction is off the charts. These gentle, loving cats form strong bonds with their humans and animal companions. They’re happiest when hanging out in a group, soaking up attention and warmth. If left alone too much, Scottish Folds can get anxious, withdrawn, or even depressed. They’ll often follow you from room to room, hoping for a snuggle or soft word. If you want a devoted, sensitive soul who thrives in a busy household, the Scottish Fold is a wonderful choice—just make sure they have plenty of company.
Devon Rex: Mischief Needs a Co-Conspirator
The Devon Rex is a pixie-like cat with huge ears and an endless supply of playful energy. They’re notorious for getting into trouble when bored, and nothing staves off their mischief like a feline friend. These quirky cats love to climb, chase, and invent games, but solo play just isn’t as fun. When a Devon Rex is left alone, their sense of adventure can turn into loneliness or anxiety. They’ll seek out anyone—human or animal—to join their antics. If you’re looking for a cat who will keep you laughing, just remember: a Devon Rex is twice as delightful with a companion.
Oriental Shorthair: The Socialite of the Cat World
With their sleek bodies and oversized ears, Oriental Shorthairs are show-stoppers—and they know it! These cats are highly social and absolutely hate being left out. They form deep bonds with their families and often pick a favorite person, but they’re happiest in a lively, bustling home with lots of furry or human friends. Leave them alone too long, and they’ll become vocal, restless, or even act out. Orientals are like the life of a party that never wants to end—they crave attention, affection, and plenty of company. If you’re rarely home, this is not the breed for you!
Tonkinese: The Life-of-the-Party Lap Cat
Tonkinese cats are a delightful blend of Siamese and Burmese traits—social, chatty, and endlessly affectionate. They’re the lap cats who will curl up with you for hours, but they also need plenty of playtime with others. Leave a Tonkinese alone, and you’ll come back to a lonely, possibly depressed kitty who just wants someone to talk to (or nap with). Their need for companionship is as deep as their gorgeous aqua eyes. If you bring a Tonkinese home, consider adopting two—they’ll keep each other happy and entertained.
Maine Coon: Gentle Giants with Big Hearts
Maine Coons might look like majestic mini-lions, but inside, they’re softies who adore their people and animal friends. These gentle giants crave interaction and often act more like dogs than cats—following you around, greeting guests at the door, and even playing fetch. Being left alone for long stretches isn’t their style; they can get bored and sad without company. Maine Coons thrive in multi-pet households where there’s always someone to hang out with. If you want a cat that will fill your home with love (and lots of fur), a Maine Coon with a buddy is the way to go.
Birman: Angelic Looks, Social Souls
Birmans are known for their striking blue eyes and creamy coats, but their true beauty lies in their affectionate, social nature. These cats love being part of a group and can become sad or withdrawn if left alone too often. Birmans are gentle, sweet, and love to snuggle with both people and other pets. If you’re looking for a cat who wants to be wherever you are—and bring a friend along—a Birman is a perfect pick. Their happiness truly shines in pairs or groups.
Norwegian Forest Cat: Viking Spirit, Family Heart
Despite their wild, rugged appearance, Norwegian Forest Cats are big softies at heart. These cats are deeply attached to their families—human and animal alike. While independent at times, they can become lonely and even depressed if left alone for long periods. Norwegian Forest Cats thrive in busy homes where there’s always a friend to play or nap with. Their gentle, loyal nature means they bond easily with other pets. Think of them as gentle giants who need a clan to feel complete!
Chartreux: The French Connection to Friendship
The plush, blue-grey Chartreux may have a mysterious look, but their hearts are open and full of love. These cats bond deeply with their families and love having other pets around. They’re quiet but not shy, and they’ll miss you (or their furry pals) when you’re gone. Chartreux cats can become withdrawn or moody if left alone too often. Their happiness comes from sharing their lives and routines with others—think of them as the French philosophers of the cat world, always pondering but happiest in company.
Turkish Angora: Graceful, Social, and Sensitive
With their flowing coats and elegant moves, Turkish Angoras might seem like divas, but they’re actually sensitive, deeply social cats. They crave attention and get attached to both humans and other animals. If left alone, they might become anxious or even develop bad habits. Turkish Angoras are happiest in lively households where there’s always a playmate or snuggle buddy available. Their social grace isn’t just for show—they truly need companionship to feel secure and happy.
Snowshoe: Social, Sensitive, and Sweet-Natured
With their striking white paws and gentle personalities, Snowshoes are true companions at heart. These cats form strong attachments and quickly become lonely if left by themselves. Their sensitive, people-oriented nature means they’ll often seek out other pets for comfort and play. Snowshoes are happiest in pairs or groups, where they can share their affection and curiosity. If you want a cat who loves togetherness as much as you do, the Snowshoe is a wonderful match.
Siberian: Big-Hearted, Big-Need for Friends
Siberians are robust, fluffy cats with a playful spirit and a deep need for social interaction. They bond closely with their families and can become sad or anxious if left alone too long. Siberians love having other pets to romp and wrestle with, and they’re great at making friends with both cats and dogs. Their outgoing, affectionate nature means that life is always better with a buddy by their side. If you’re looking for a cat who’ll fill your home with laughter (and a bit of chaos), a pair of Siberians is a winning combo.
Balinese: Dancers Who Need a Partner
Balinese cats are elegant, active, and endlessly social. Their graceful movements and chatty personalities make them stand out in any room. These cats don’t like to be left alone—without a companion, they can become lonely or even depressed. Balinese thrive in homes where there’s always someone (cat, dog, or human) to share their day with. Think of them as dancers who always want a partner on the floor. If you bring home a Balinese, consider adopting two—they’ll keep each other’s spirits high.
Tonkinese: Double Down on Social Energy
The Tonkinese makes a second appearance for good reason—their need for company is legendary! These cats are lively, affectionate, and always up for adventure, but they don’t like to do it alone. A Tonkinese left by itself can quickly become bored or even depressed. They thrive in pairs or groups, where they can share their playful energy and strong bonds. If you’re looking for a cat who will always keep you on your toes, make sure to give your Tonkinese a friend to share in the fun.
Singapura: Tiny Cats with Huge Social Needs
Singapura cats may be small in size, but their need for companionship is enormous. These lively, affectionate kitties love being in the thick of things—whether it’s helping you type on your laptop or playing with other pets. They can get lonely and even depressed if left alone too much. Singapura cats are happiest in bustling households with plenty of playmates. Their petite frames hide big personalities and even bigger hearts.
Manx: Tailless, but Not Friendless
Manx cats are famous for their lack of tails, but what really sets them apart is their deep need for social connection. These playful, affectionate cats bond closely with their families and love having other pets to interact with. Manx cats can become lonely or even depressed if left on their own for long periods. They’re happiest in homes where there’s always a friend to chase or snuggle with. If you’re looking for a cat with a unique look and a heart full of love, the Manx is a top pick.
Russian Blue: Shy, Elegant, and Social at Heart
Russian Blues are known for their shy, reserved nature, but don’t be fooled—they crave companionship just like the boldest breeds. These elegant, plush-coated cats form deep bonds with their humans and other pets. Left alone, they can become anxious or withdrawn. Russian Blues are happiest when they have a trusted companion to share their world with. If you want a cat who’s both mysterious and loving, consider a pair of Russian Blues—they’ll bring out the best in each other.
Bengal: Wild Looks, Social Souls
Bengals might look like little leopards, but their hearts are full of love and playfulness. These energetic cats need plenty of stimulation and don’t like being left alone. Bengals thrive in homes with other pets to wrestle, chase, and explore with. Without a buddy, they can get bored, anxious, or even destructive. Bengals are happiest in active households where there’s always someone to share in their wild adventures.
Ocicat: Spotted, Spirited, and Social
Ocicats may look exotic, but they’re true extroverts at heart. These spotted beauties love being part of a busy household and hate being left alone. Ocicats form strong bonds with both humans and other pets, and they can become lonely or even depressed if they don’t have a companion. Their playful, outgoing nature makes them a joy to have around, especially in pairs or groups. If you want a cat who’ll keep you entertained and never let you feel alone, the Ocicat is a purrfect choice.
Which of these cats would you love to meet?
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
