Many pet owners tend to adopt cats because they are some of the smartest animals out there. So, we also agree with this and recommend that you adopt a feline if you want an intelligent companion. Depending on the breed, some require higher maintenance costs than others, and some prefer certain activities that stimulate their brain functions more than others, but overall they all have the ability to understand things. Yet, it is quite difficult to choose a cat as a pet, given that they are all clever and adorable, but some stand out more than others from this point of view.

The difference between dogs and cats is that dogs are much more obedient than cats. “Unlike dogs, many cats are not likely to ‘live to please’ their owners. Cats generally only cooperate when they want to —more intelligent cats do tend to display more problem solving characteristics such as finding things,” says Dr. Gary Richter, DVM, founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition. For instance, cats can recognize their name as well, but they prefer to respond whenever they want. 

There are a lot of intelligent cat breeds, but they are also very expensive if you want to buy from a breeder. Instead, you should visit an animal shelter as well, because there are a lot of purebred animals that are waiting for someone to save their life. “Visit with as many cats or kittens you’d like before deciding which cat to adopt,” Arndt says. “This will allow you to find the cat that will best fit in with your family and household.”

“Some of these breeds are better problem solvers, some are better athletes, and others just like to ‘hang out,'” Richter says. “People looking for a smarter cat should also consider that smarter animals tend to be the most mischievous as well.”

So, here are the most intelligent cat breeds, according to experts! Read on for more info!

Mixed Breed cats

Cats of unknown lineage are known as Mixed Breed or Domestic Short Hair cats. First of all, you should know that some of the most intelligent cats are mixed breeds and domestic short hair, which can be commonly found in animal shelters. Even though they don’t have a specific and official pedigree, their personality traits are what you need from a cat. In fact, Mixed Breed cats are the most popular cats in the United States. 

According to Dr. Amanda Landis-Hanna, DVM, the senior manager of veterinary outreach at PetSmart Charities, “[Mixed Breed cats] are often very bright, and can frequently be trained tricks or skills. They respond well to positive reinforcement such as a favorite treat.”

So, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an expensive cat breed that requires high maintenance costs, you should opt for a mixed breed cat that can also be found in an animal shelter.

Siamese

This beautiful cat breed is one of the most affectionate creatures that love to spend time with their family and have some interesting conversations. So, if you want to adopt this cat breed you won’t regret this decision!

“They tend to be very vocal, especially when they want something, and therefore train their people very quickly,” Arndt says. “Siamese cats are affectionate and active — they get bored easily, so providing opportunities for training will help keep this breed from becoming potentially destructive in your home.”

In addition, you should give them a lot of toys that can keep them active all day and play with them as often as possible because they need to stimulate their brain functions. Their predominant personality trait is that they are very talkative, and this is useful because this way you will know what they want or not from you and when they want attention or just food. 

Nevertheless, if you have a busy life, then you shouldn’t adopt a Siamese cat, because they require a lot of attention. Moreover, they don’t like to be left alone for too long. Siamese cats are generally healthy, but some of them are more likely to develop amyloidosis, which is a disease that can cause tissue and organ dysfunction.

Abyssinian

This beautiful medium sized cat breed has a strong personality, being one of the most intelligent felines in the world. They are also very curious and affectionate with their family. “Abyssinian cats are active cats who love to climb and play,” says Arndt. “While they aren’t always lap cats, they tend to enjoy the company of humans and other cats,” he added.

They love to play and spend time with humans of all ages, without becoming aggressive, so they are perfect for families with kids as well. Abyssinian cats need a lot of space and activities, especially because they are good climbers. So, you should provide them with an area where they can climb things, such as a cat tree. 

The Abyssinian cat is generally healthy, but this breed can be prone to certain diseases, such as pyruvate kinase deficiency, which can lead to anemia, and progressive retinal atrophy – which is an eye problem that can lead to blindness. 

In addition, don’t forget that cats are carnivores, so you should give them meat as often as possible, but try to give them the right quantity of food if you want to keep them healthy.

Bengal

Bengal cats are known for their athletic and graceful body, being very affectionate with their family. Bengal cats are also very intelligent, playful and active animals. According to Richter, Bengals “are among the more intelligent breeds of domestic cats” especially because they react in a positive way to a lot of stimuli. 

Many people describe this cat breed as a highly intelligent feline. They are very talkative and friendly and the best part is that they can be leash trained. Both pedigreed and mixed breed cats are prone to certain diseases, such as distal neuropathy, which is a nervous system disorder, and flat-chested kitten syndrome.

Burmese

The Burmese is one of the most energetic cat breeds of them all that has a loving and friendly personality. Even though they are very talkative, their voice is absolutely soft and nice. Of course, as you already know they are highly intelligent animals. The Burmese cats love their family more than anything. According to Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, CVA, CVCH, founder of the Animal Acupuncture practice in New York City, “Burmese cats can read the moods of their owners and form strong bonds with them and other animals. They also love to be the center of attention.”

That’s not all! They are extremely curious and love to explore the whole house. The Burmese love to play all day, so you should tease their smart mind with interesting games and toys. Moreover, they are able to learn a lot of new things very quickly and can be leash trained. 

Many people say that these cute cat breeds are just like dogs because they love to be involved in everything that you do around the house, from watching TV together, to cooking your favorite recipe. They are generally healthy, but some of them can be prone to lipemia of the aqueous humor – which is an eye problem that can cure itself over time, orofacial pain syndrome – which is caused by excessive licking.

Tonkinese

The Tonkinese is a friendly, intelligent and active cat breed that has a loving personality, being very loyal to their family. If you want to adopt this cat breed you should be ready to offer a lot of affection and love, because they want attention all the time. 

“Social, active, and attention seeking, Tonkinese cats are some of the smartest around,” Barrack says. “They’re so intelligent, they actually get bored easily of playing with the same toys. You’ll have to provide them with a variety of interactive toys to keep them satisfied.”

The Tonkinese loves to be around people, so they shouldn’t be left alone for too long. People who already own a Tonkinese cat advise you to leave them at home in the company of another friend while you go to work. The best part is that they can get along with dogs as well. 

So, if you are ready to adopt a Tonkinese cat as a pet, you should provide them with a cat tree because they love to climb and jump. In addition, you have to brush their short and soft coat weekly.

Scottish Fold

If you are a cat person but want to adopt a pet with a dog personality, then you should definitely choose a Scottish fold cat. Of course, as the name suggests, this medium sized cat breed is native to Scotland. Not only are they very intelligent, but they are also very affectionate with their families. 

“They love to learn new tricks like opening doors or playing fetch as well as can easily adapt to new environments and form strong bonds with humans,” said Barrack. 

These little furry creatures are extremely sensitive, cute and active, but if you want to adopt one, you have to make sure that they won’t be left alone for too long, as they love to be surrounded by people.

Savannah 

The Savannah cat is one of the most active cat breeds that has a loving personality. “They are known for becoming mischievous when bored, so keep their minds occupied with treat puzzles or vertical climbing structures. Just watch your head, as you might wind up with a cat on your shoulder!”