Cats are one of the most intelligent species in the animal kingdom, and despite their small size and tiny brains, these furry cats know how to take advantage of their neural connections. Proof of how intelligent these cats can be is that they can learn tricks, adapt to new environments, can learn to coexist with other species, and the vast majority know their name. However, many ignore us when we call them by their names (which sometimes can be clever too). Is there a smartest cat breed? And if so, how do we measure their intelligence?
In this article, we’ll list the smartest cat breeds and some information in case you consider getting one of these furry friends.
What’s the smartest cat breed? 8 most intelligent cat breeds
1. Abyssinian
These cats undoubtedly take the prize for the most intelligent cat breed. Although being intelligent doesn’t mean they are serious, not at all, because they also have the award for the most clownish cat, as they like to do tricks and games to amuse themselves and their audience.
They are energetic and always find something to entertain themselves, the world is their playground, and they enjoy running and jumping all day long. These beautiful cats are curious and affectionate but not velcro cats; they are pretty independent. If you have an Aby, you can expect him to follow you around the house to investigate what you are doing, and although he rarely sits on your lap, he enjoys the company with a little distance.
2. Siamese
They are among the most popular breeds in the world, and no wonder they are very clever animals besides being beautiful and easy to identify. There are many types of Siamese cats. Siamese cats are one of the most playful and affectionate breeds, totally attached to their human family, whom they love madly. The Siameses are very vocal cats; with their meowing, they manage to communicate everything they need and more.
They are very energetic cats that enjoy playing, especially when it comes to challenging its mind. They do not have a good time if they are left alone for a long time, so it is a good idea to have another pet to keep them company.
3. Cornish Rex
This long, slender cat has a beautiful curly coat that distinguishes him from the rest. As his athletic figure suggests, he is a very active cat who enjoys running, climbing, jumping, and playing for long hours.
With a Cornish, you will never be bored, as he is an amiable cat, and if he is not playing with you, you will find him getting up to some mischief, like knocking over a vase just for fun.
4. Singapura
You probably haven’t heard of them, and that’s because they are tough to get. In addition to being very intelligent, these furry cats distinguish by being the smallest domestic cat. Even as adults, they only measure between 6 to 8 inches. Their short stature contrasts significantly with their long ears and huge round eyes, usually green, yellow, or hazel.
They are incredibly active and playful; even when they are older, they retain their kitten attitude. They love to be the center of attention and enjoy spending time with their human family. This chatty kitten is very outgoing and affectionate and is ideal for any family.
5. Burmese
These expressive-eyed cats are called velcro cats because if they could, they separate from their humans (they can’t, or so they say). They are pretty dependent. This sweet and affectionate cat loves to spend time with his family, especially when it comes to playing. Unlike many breeds, the Burmese enjoys playing in the company of its family and even more so if he has an audience to watch him, as he loves to be the center of attention.
He is very chatty; he has no problem when it comes to giving his opinion about anything that happens around him. He is ideal for families with children and other pets, as he is a very sociable and well-behaved cat.
6. Bengal
Incredibly beautiful, this cat with leopard-like fur is super intelligent, playful, and active. Although the Bengal looks like a wild cat, he is a very affectionate little guy with his humans and even with other people, as he is a social kitten. As if he were in nature, he loves to run, jump and climb to very high places, pretending he is at the top of a tree from where he observes his territory.
They are brilliant and learn tricks very quickly. Some Bengals learn to flush the toilet lever, open doors, or turn the light on and off, so if you have a Bengal, don’t waste that clever mind and train them!
7. Japanese Bobtail
This kitten is famous for its small and plump tail, similar to that of a rabbit, since it is only about 3 inches long. These cats are charming, have desirable personalities, are super outgoing, and are friendly with people of any age and even with other pets. They are also very playful and affectionate.
The Japanese Bobtails are very intelligent, chatty, and, above all, very active. They like to spend time with their family, preferably in activities that involve movement. Their favorite hobbies are fetching toys and following their humans around the house.
8. Scottish Fold
This Scottish kitten distinguishes by its folded-down ears, which, although they look different from those of other cats, don’t represent any hearing problem, let alone deafness.
These furry cats are trendy among cat lovers because they are very intelligent, calm, and gentle. If you own one of these cats, you already know that they are usually quick to choose their favorite human and are loyal to the end, but they are also very affectionate with the rest of their human family. And although they enjoy spending time in the company of their humans, they are not “lap cats” and prefer to sit on the side and be petted.
Other smart cat breeds that didn’t make it to the list
- Savannah Cat
- Havana Brown
- Tonkinese
- Savannah
- Korat
- Persian
- Turkish Angora
- Turkish Van
Smartest cat breed: How smart can a cat be?
A cat reaches the cognitive development that a child of two or even three years old could have. Among the most relevant aspects, we can understand from this is that the cat has self-awareness and can retain specific knowledge. For example, a cat can remember an object’s location even if it doesn’t see it.
And if you are still wondering how intelligent they can be, think about this: has your cat ever manipulated you? Indeed he has because they are experts in observing, storing information, and using it at the time that suits them best. They can mix, understand and use different types of information. Incredible, isn’t it?
Now you know which are the smartest cat breeds you can find. Do you own any of them? Have you noticed intelligent behavior in your cat? Let us know in the comments!