Who doesn’t envy a lazy cat sleeping in a sunbeam? While there are certainly mischievous cat breeds that act like dogs, more often than not we associate our feline friends with leisurely attitudes. (It’s called a cat nap for a reason!) Pet people in search of a cat who is content to chill all day long should consider one of the lazy breeds on our list. These cats often can’t be bothered to greet you at the door. They prefer quiet nights in and probably poo-poo social gatherings. The thing is, at the end of a long day, we can’t blame ‘em!
The 8 Laziest Cat Breeds Who Are Totally Happy to Chill All Day Long
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Published Oct 9, 2021
Lazy cats and physical fitness
The one thing you’ve got to watch out for in lazy cats is excessive weight gain. Obesity in dogs and cats can lead to a whole host of health issues. Banfield Pet Hospital data reveals the obesity rate in pet cats in the last decade has increased 114 percent. A cat who is overweight is four times more likely to develop urinary tract issues than a cat who has a healthy weight.
The COVID-19 pandemic definitely didn’t do kitties any favors, either. Almost half of the pet parents Banfield surveyed say they give in when their pet begs for food. Having their humans at home more often during the pandemic meant more treats and bigger meals for many pets.
So, if you’ve got a lazy cat who doesn’t feel the urge to move around a lot, find ways to ensure they get some exercise every day. Interactive toys and tunnels can encourage cats to explore. Interestingly, many cats on our list prefer life at ground level and don’t need to jump onto tall pieces of furniture or cat towers to take in the room. Having a playmate is also a good way to keep kitties active. If you do decide it’s treat time, try using a treat ball so your cat has to work for it a little bit.
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1. Birman
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 12 pounds
Personality: Quiet, loyal
Coat: Long, single layer
Color: Pointed, cream
Life Expectancy: 9-15 years
Birmans are fluffy, medium-to-large-sized cats with quiet dispositions and bright blue eyes. They typically take three years to fully mature. The International Cat Association says Birmans are “Velcro cats” and actually don’t mind being carried around (hello, lazy). Get ready for a constant companion and nap buddy with a Birman.
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2. British Shorthair
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 8-16 pounds
Personality: Calm, independent
Coat: Short, dense
Color: Variety (Known for silvery gray)
Life Expectancy: 12-20 years
When you combine a calm demeanor with an independent streak, it makes for ultimate laziness. British Shorthair cats are content spending time alone, asleep, atop the comfiest perch they can find. Don’t mistake this lazy cat for a super cuddler! They’d rather sit next to you than on you. This is an ancient breed that actually originated in Egypt before being imported to Great Britain.
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3. Chartreux
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 6-14 pounds
Personality: Affectionate, smart
Coat: Short, thick
Color: Blue-gray
Life Expectancy: 8-13 years
It’s thought Chartreux cats were used as mice-catchers in French monasteries as early as the 1700s. You’ll only find them in a silvery, blue-gray coat with orange or copper-colored eyes. While they do love attention, don’t worry about leaving them home alone. A Chartreux kitty will indulge in solo time, respect your stuff and welcome you back with open arms.
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4. Himalayan
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 9-12 pounds
Personality: Sweet, friendly
Coat: Long
Color: Variety of colors in pointed pattern
Life Expectancy: 15-18 years
With their recognizable flat faces and puffy coats, Himalayan cats have a distinctly cozy appearance. They don’t talk much and are always looking for a lap to lay in. While quiet and gentle, they don’t mind meeting new people and generally get along with everyone. Grooming is an essential daily practice, otherwise a Himalayan’s coat will snarl!
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5. Persian
Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 7-12 pounds
Personality: Quiet, sweet
Coat: Long
Color: Variety of colors and patterns
Life Expectancy: 8-11 years
Himalayan cats are members of the Persian Breed Group. This means they’ve got the same body types and dispositions. In fact, the primary difference between the two is the coat coloration (Persians come in all colors and patterns, whereas Himalayans are typically pointed). According to VCA Animal Hospitals, Persians may be less friendly with kids and other pets. However, most are credited with sweet (albeit lazy) attitudes.
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6. Ragdoll
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 10-20 pounds
Personality: Laid-back, friendly
Coat: Semi-long
Color: Variety of colors in pointed pattern
Life Expectancy: 12-18 years
A relative of Birman cats, Ragdolls are notorious for enjoying lounging in the arms of their favorite humans. These are big cats who can live long, healthy lives if cared for well. Ragdolls adapt well to households with kids and other pets. Don’t neglect your Ragdoll. Like many companion animals, these cats are intelligent and thrive on friendship.
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7. Russian Blue
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 7-15 pounds
Personality: Gentle, reserved
Coat: Short, dense
Color: Gray, blue
Life Expectancy: 10-20 years
Russian Blue cats are totally cool observing from a quiet corner of the room. They tend to be shy felines who appreciate a steady routine. If you live in a rowdy household or enjoy hosting large dinner parties every weekend, your Russian Blue may hold a grudge and voice their displeasure. Compared to Persian cats, they hardly shed at all.
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8. Scottish Fold
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 6-13 pounds
Personality: Adaptable, loving
Coat: Long and short varieties
Color: Variety of colors and patterns
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
While Scottish Folds are definitely lazy loungers, they do best with a friend. Chilling is always better with company! These lovable sweethearts get along with everyone and adapt to new surroundings well (as long as you set aside a cozy spot for their naps). Their signature folded ears make them hard to miss.
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