If you adore the companionship and devotion of a dog but you have allergies, an apartment, or a lifestyle that makes a dog unsuitable, there is still hope. Certain cat breeds can be quite as loyal and enthusiastic as a golden retriever instead of the more common aloof cat. They will greet you at the door, accompany you from room to room and even chase a ball. If you are looking for a cat with the best of a dog’s qualities, check out these breeds.
Ragdoll
Ragdolls are probably the closest to a “dog in a cat suit.” They will go limp and happy when picked up (which gives them their name), and actually look for you instead of just putting up with you. Ragdolls typically follow you from room to room, greet you at the door, and will often come to lap for the evening without much coaxing.
Ragdolls are an impressive large cat breed. They have silky semi-long hair and blue eyes. Their laid back nature makes them suitable for families, individuals and people who are looking for a calm and people oriented animal. Currently there are Ragdoll kittens for sale throughout Australia. There is also a complete breed information page including cost, care and health.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are gentle giants (some males can be over 9kg!) and have a ‘dog-like’ personality and behaviour. Some owners have found their Maine Coons to retrieve small toys, walk on a lead quite easily and even join in on family activity. They are friendly to people and other animals and their chatty and chirpy voices can make them more of a conversation partner than an aggressive cat.
Abyssinian
If you are looking for a cat that is energetic and curious like a dog instead of a lap cat then you should consider the Abyssinian. These cats are quite active and enjoy play with their owners. They also tend to form very strong bonds with one or two people and will often follow you from room to room. Abyssinians are not particularly fond of cuddling but due to their strong attachment and desire to be in on everything they have a very dog like presence.
Burmese
Burmese cats are very social and are often referred to as “velcro cats.” They do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They enjoy laps and shoulders and will often greet you at the door. Due to their strong constitution and dog-like enthusiasm for playing, many people who have only ever had dogs as pets will enjoy having a Burmese cat.
Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is an energetic and bold cat that is extremely devoted to its family. Commonly called the “swimming cat”, Turcian Vans are very agile. Unlike some of the other breeds featured here, they are not overly fond of being held, but will often accompany you everywhere you go. Turkish Vans are very trainable and many will learn to fetch, respond to their name and even walk on a harness.
Manx
The tailless Manx is a playful and loyal cat, with a tendency to show a dog-like attachment to their favourite people. Manx cats often form a particularly strong attachment to one individual, and will often follow that person around. They may also show protective behaviour towards “their” people, similar to that of a dog. Manx cats can be trained to enjoy games and have a good ability to retrieve.
What Makes a Cat “Dog-Like,” Really?
Across these breeds, a few traits keep coming up:
- Following you around rather than watching from a distance
- Greeting you at the door when you come home
- Playing fetch or responding to games the way dogs do
- Strong, visible loyalty to specific people
- Comfort with handling — being picked up, carried, or leashed
None of this said, however, that these cats lack independence. They are still cats and even the most social breed needs some time alone. If you are transitioning from dog ownership and are looking for the closest equivalent to a dog from a cat perspective however, the Maine Coon, Burmese and Ragdoll are consistently rated as the most people and affection oriented.
Finding the Right One
A cat’s temperament can differ between breeds but also within individual cats. Therefore it is always advisable to see kittens (and their parents if possible) prior to making a decision. If the velcro-type gentle personality of a Ragdoll is right for you then begin by checking out currently available Ragdolls across Australia. Compare price, location and information about the breeder.
