13 Best Cat For Elderly Person and Seinor

What are the best cat breeds for elderly person and senior? If you’re searching for a furry feline friend for yourself or your family, you may be wondering which breeds would suit you the most.

As a pet expert, I understand the unique bond between pets and their owners. For seniors, this bond can be even more meaningful. Cats, in particular, make perfect companions for the elderly. They require minimal maintenance, are inexpensive to provide for, and offer a comforting presence. While any cat can bring joy and companionship, some breeds are particularly suited to living with seniors due to their low maintenance and independent nature. In this article, we’ll explore 13 cat breeds that are perfect for seniors.

Before we dive into the list, let’s discuss why cats make such great companions for seniors. Cats are known for their independence, which means they require less attention and care than other pets. They’re also quiet, making them ideal for seniors who live in apartments or have close neighbors. Plus, the simple act of petting a cat can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure, providing significant health benefits.

Now, let’s take a look at the 13 best cat breeds for seniors.

1. American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is a breed believed to have descended from European cats brought to America by early settlers. This breed is low maintenance, has a long lifespan, and is known for having few health problems.

They’re affectionate and come in more than 80 colors, making them a delightful addition to any home. Their easygoing nature and robust health make them an excellent choice for seniors.

2. Birman

The Birman, also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” is a long-haired cat with deep blue eyes. Their fur is medium-length with a color point pattern, and they don’t have an undercoat to shed.

They’re healthy, friendly, and intelligent enough to keep seniors company. Bermans love to lounge around and are usually close to their owners, providing a comforting presence.

3. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair, a purebred version of the British domestic cat, is good-natured with a calm disposition.

They’re dignified and less active than other breeds, making them perfect for older adults. However, they prefer not to be carried around too much, which can be a plus for seniors with mobility issues.

4. Burmilla

Originating in the United Kingdom, the Burmilla has a muscular body and a sparkling silver coat. They’re extremely independent, requiring very little attention, but are social, playful, and attentive when shown affection.

They also get along well with children and other animals, making them a great choice for seniors with visiting grandchildren or other pets.

5. Domestic Cats

Domestic longhair and shorthair cats, without a known pedigree, are often extremely friendly and very low maintenance. Suitable for indoor and outdoor life, they come in nearly any color and pattern.

They’re relatively healthy with long lifespans and are the most readily available and least expensive on this list. Their diverse genetics often lead to fewer health problems, making them a great choice for seniors.

6. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is the largest domesticated cat and is also one of the friendliest. Often referred to as the “gentle giant,” it tends to follow you around the house.

They’re affectionate but lazy, very independent, and don’t mind entertaining themselves. Their playful nature and large size make them a favorite among many cat lovers.

7. Persian

The Persian is a long-haired cat with a short, pushed-in muzzle. One of the most popular breeds due to its thick, fluffy coat, it’s commonly subdued, preferring to watch over the home from a high perch.

It’s available in a wide range of colors, including the color point pattern. Their calm demeanor and low activity level make them a great choice for a quiet household.

8. Pixie Bob

The Pixie Bob is thought to be a bobcat hybrid. It’s extremely intelligent and social, getting along well with other animals. They like meeting new people and are usually in the same room the owner is in.

This breed is very vocal, making lots of chirps and growls, but rarely meows. They will walk on a leash and will also play games like fetch, providing plenty of entertainment for their owners.

9. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a docile cat with a muscular body, often sporting the color point pattern. It gets its name from its behavior when picked up - it goes limp, just like a ragdoll.

The Ragdoll likes to follow you around the home and is such a docile animal that many believe it cannot feel pain. This breed is perfect for seniors looking for a low-maintenance, affectionate companion.

10. Russian Blue

The Russian Blue breed is one of the few on this list created by nature. It gets its name from its place of origin and the typical color of its coat. The Russian Blue has bright green eyes and thick fur described as plush or soft to the touch.

It’s lazy but intelligent and likes to play or perform tricks. Their striking appearance and playful nature make them a joy to have around.

11. Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is a cat breed with a face that resembles an owl due to a genetic condition that affects the cartilage in the cat’s body. The condition causes the ears to bend forward, giving the cat its unique appearance.

Many owners comment on its extremely loving nature and dislike of being left alone. It is happiest when it’s playing outdoor games with its family, making it a great choice for active seniors.

12. Snowshoe

The Snowshoe breed originated in Philadelphia, PA, but it’s considered a rare breed due to the difficulty of recreating its color point markings. It is a mellow cat that’s very even-tempered and sweet.

Snowshoe cats are intelligent and can learn how to open doors and perform many tricks to benefit the elderly. Their unique appearance and sweet nature make them a wonderful companion.

13. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthair is another cat breed that features a pushed-in face. It’s very gentle and calm and is friendly to other animals. The only thing that bothers this breed is leaving it alone.

Their laid-back nature makes them well-suited for apartment life, making them an excellent choice for seniors living in smaller spaces or those who prefer a quiet, relaxed pet.

The bottom line

Many cat breeds make fantastic companions for the elderly. They don’t need as much exercise or maintenance as dogs and are cheaper on average. They also make far fewer demands for your attention. The American Shorthair, British Shorthair, and Maine Coon are all perfect choices for inexperienced pet owners. Still, it is hard to beat the Domestic Shorthair cat, which you can find everywhere and usually for free.

Choosing the right cat breed for a senior involves considering the potential owner’s lifestyle, health, and personal preferences. It’s also important to remember that while certain breeds may typically exhibit certain traits, individual cats’ personalities can vary greatly.

We hope this guide has helped you consider a few new options for your next pet. If you found this information helpful, please share these 13 cat breeds for seniors with your friends and family. Remember, at pawsadviser, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pets.

In addition to choosing the right breed, it’s also important to consider the cat’s age. While kittens can be a lot of fun, they also require a lot of work. Older cats, on the other hand, can be a great choice for seniors as they are often more relaxed and require less attention.

Finally, no matter what breed or age you choose, owning a cat can bring a lot of joy and companionship to a senior’s life. The bond between a cat and its owner is a special one, and it can provide a sense of purpose and routine that can be very beneficial for seniors.

So whether you’re a senior looking for a new pet or a loved one trying to help find the perfect companion for an elderly family member, consider a cat. They’re loving, low maintenance, and can make a wonderful addition to any home.