Soft, silky and oh, so strokable, it’s easy to see why long haired cat breeds are so popular. Sure, they may not be as common as their short haired counterparts, but many cat lovers are more than happy to jump through a few extra hoops to get their hands on one of these sumptuous beauties.
And one look at a luxuriously long haired cat is enough to explain why: these magnificent felines are gorgeous.
But we must warn you that every rose has its thorns and long haired cat breeds are no exception. You see, being generously endowed in the fur department does come with some drawbacks in the grooming department. As you’d expect, long hair is more prone to matting and hairballs.
So if you want the pleasure of owning a long haired cat, be prepared to put in the work in the form of regular, vigorous combing sessions.
That being said, it’s not all work with these lovely felines. They come with a huge perk: most long haired cat breeds have been bred specifically for their companion qualities. You’ll find as you scroll through this list that these long haired beauties have as much affection, playfulness and good humor as they have fur. So, endless amounts, really.
Ready to meet the line up of long haired cats
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Birman
Coat: Long, silky and doesn’t mat
With my royal good looks, is it any wonder I was worshipped in temples throughout Burma? But my beauty is more than fur-deep – I am one of the sweetest, most gentle cats in existence and unlike most good-natured felines, I am neither lethargic nor aloof, preferring to spend my energy being affectionate with my humans. Read more about the Birman.
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Cymric (Longhaired Manx)
Coat: Long with a dense undercoat
I am a cat of contrasts. Although I may look buff and formidable, I am actually very affectionate and playful. Although sociable, I’m also highly independent. And despite my gentle, easy-going personality, I can become territorial and protective of what’s mine. Read more about the Cymric.
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Himalayan
Coat: Medium to long and very thick
I’m what’s known as the best of both worlds – a purrfect combination of two very popular cat breeds, the Persian and the Siamese. And that’s both for my looks and my personality, which strikes the ideal balance between the Persian’s gentle nature and the Siamese’s affectionate playfulness. Read more about the Himalayan.
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Maine Coon
Coat: Medium to long, smooth, silky, very thick and rugged
I’m a true American – big, hearty, and one of the oldest breeds to originate in the US. A rugged sort of cat, I’m built to survive – and thrive – with my water-repellant fur and top-notch hunting skills but underneath my brawny good looks lies the heart of a gentle giant. I’m as loving and affectionate as a kitten. Read more about the Maine Coon.
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Norwegian Forest Cat
Coat: Fairly long, thick and silky
I may be strong and muscular, but I’ve got the disposition of a bunny rabbit. Sweet, nurturing and affectionate, I love everyone unconditionally and when I’m not romping through the house to work off my high energy, I’ll be making my rounds to cuddle anyone and everyone in my path. Read more about the Norwegian Forest Cat.
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Persian
Coat: Very long, thick and requires habitual grooming
I don’t mean to brag, but I’ve officially been the most popular cat breed for, like, forever. My desirability has both to do with my adorably fluffy looks as my extremely laid-back personality. I’m very zen-like, you know – gentle, soft-spoken and capable of accepting every moment with gracious nonchalance. Read more about the Persian.
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Ragdoll
Coat: Semi-longhaired, smooth and very silky
My name gives me away. I am every bit as big, fluffy, and easy-going as a ragdoll. I’ll even go limp when you pick me up – which I’ll let you do even if you’re a total stranger. I’m just friendly like that, ‘though my sociability never gets annoying. At most, I’ll follow you from room to room just to be closer to you as I laze around. Read more about the Ragdoll.
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Siberian
Coat: Long, thick and very dense
Physically, I’m built to survive in the rough, cold forests of Siberia, but emotionally, I thrive in the warm company of my humans. I’m very sociable and affectionate and will frequently engage my humans in games. That is, when I’m not climbing to the heights of the house, playing with the faucet, or stealing your shiny objects. Read more about the Siberian.
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Somali
Coat: Medium to long, soft, thick and very silky
Vibrantly colored and with a full-plume tail, I look like – and have the cunningness of – a fox. Yes, I’m a clever cat and I use my smarts to investigate every nook and cranny of the house, learn how to open closed cabinets, and knock various objects off high places to see how they land. I admit, I can be a handful but good-natured, sociable nature makes me worth the trouble. Read more about the Somali.
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