New Zealanders love their cats. With over 1.2 million pet cats across the country, they’re not just pets — they’re part of the family. Whether you're adopting a kitten for the first time or looking to better understand your current feline friend, knowing the characteristics of different breeds can make a world of difference.
This guide introduces the most popular cat breeds in New Zealand, with insights into their behaviour, care needs, and compatibility with various households. From the affectionate Ragdoll to the mischievous Burmese, there's a feline companion to suit every lifestyle. Head over to our complete guide to cat breeds in NZ for a deeper dive into every popular breed here in NZ. In our complete guide, you will find a unique resource for each breed that delves into much more detail.
Cat Breeds NZ
1. Ragdoll
Overview: Ragdolls are large, gentle cats known for their docile nature and striking blue eyes.
Traits: Affectionate, laid-back, family-friendly
Temperament: They enjoy being handled and often go limp in your arms, hence the name “Ragdoll.”
Feeding Tips: Choose a diet that supports their size and calm lifestyle. Look for large-breed formulas or Royal Canin Ragdoll.
Good to Know: Ragdolls are indoor cats who enjoy company — ideal for families or retirees. Remember, even indoor cats need regular flea treatments. Opt for the likes of Bravecto Plus or Nexgard Spectra for Cats.
Interaction Advice: They enjoy cuddling, quiet playtime, and being near their humans.
Housing Needs: Soft bedding, window perches, and plenty of companionship.
2. British Shorthair
Overview: Sturdy and plush-coated, British Shorthairs are calm and independent.
Traits: Quiet, affectionate but not clingy, dignified
Temperament: They’re relaxed and easygoing, making them a great choice for apartments or quieter homes.
Feeding Tips: Prone to weight gain, so portion control is essential. Opt for Hill’s Light or Hill's indoor adult formulas.
Good to Know: Their dense coat needs weekly brushing but is otherwise low maintenance.
Interaction Advice: Likes toys but prefers human company on their own terms.
Housing Needs: Calm environment, warm sleeping spots, and interactive toys. Cat litter such as World's Best Cat Litter Clumping Formula works a treat for indoor cats.
3. Burmese Cat Breed
Overview: Lively and people-oriented, Burmese cats are incredibly social and vocal.
Traits: Curious, talkative, loyal
Temperament: They form tight bonds with their owners and often follow them around.
Feeding Tips: Feed moderate portions of a balanced formula — Royal Canin Fit 32 is a good match.
Good to Know: Best for homes where someone is around often. They get bored easily when alone.
Interaction Advice: Engage with puzzle toys and high spaces to explore.
Housing Needs: Enriched spaces with cat trees and constant access to human interaction.
4. Maine Coon
Overview: One of the largest domestic cat breeds, Maine Coons are friendly giants.
Traits: Sociable, strong, gentle
Temperament: Great with children and pets, they’re affectionate without being clingy.
Feeding Tips: Feed large-breed or hairball-control diets — Royal Canin Maine Coon is tailored for them.
Good to Know: They have long coats that need brushing several times a week.
Interaction Advice: They enjoy water, climbing, and socializing with the whole family.
Housing Needs: Spacious home with large scratching posts and brushing stations.
5. Oriental Shorthair
Overview: Closely related to the Siamese, Orientals are elegant, sleek, and vocal.
Traits: Curious, vocal, emotional
Temperament: They need constant interaction and can suffer separation anxiety if left alone often.
Feeding Tips: Lean and athletic — high-protein diets like Feline Natural or Orijen Cat & Kitten suit them.
Good to Know: They're intelligent and highly trainable — even for tricks!
Interaction Advice: Puzzle feeders, clicker training, and lots of vertical space are key.
Housing Needs: Dynamic, enriched environment with a variety of toys and climbing areas.
6. Persian Cat Breed
Overview: Famous for their luxurious coats and flat faces, Persians are elegant and calm cats best suited for peaceful households.
Traits: Quiet, affectionate, low-energy
Temperament: They enjoy lounging and being pampered. Persians form strong bonds with their owners but are typically reserved with strangers.
Feeding Tips: Their sedentary lifestyle and brachycephalic (flat-faced) skulls benefit from easily chewable dry food or wet food designed for Persians, like Royal Canin Persian Adult.
Good to Know: Daily grooming is essential to prevent matting. They’re also prone to tear staining and respiratory issues.
Interaction Advice: Low-key play sessions and gentle handling work best. They love routine and a predictable environment.
Housing Needs: Quiet areas with plush bedding and minimal noise or sudden disruptions.
7. Siamese Cat Breed
Overview: Siamese cats are strikingly elegant with their pointed markings, deep blue eyes, and famously chatty personalities.
Traits: Vocal, intelligent, people-oriented
Temperament: Siamese demand attention and will vocalize their every thought. They thrive in homes with other pets or humans around frequently.
Feeding Tips: A lean, active breed — feed high-quality food that supports cognitive and digestive health. Try Orijen or Royal Canin Siamese.
Good to Know: They need constant stimulation. Without it, they may become mischievous or anxious.
Interaction Advice: Daily mental enrichment is a must — teach tricks, introduce new toys often, and include them in family activities.
Housing Needs: Enrichment is critical: tunnels, climbing structures, and sunny windows help keep them happy indoors. Invest in litter such as World's Best Cat Litter to keep the home smelling nice.
8. Tonkinese
Overview: A mix of Burmese and Siamese, Tonkinese cats combine affection, curiosity, and vocal charm.
Traits: Social, active, affectionate
Temperament: Tonkinese are known for their playful nature and enjoy human company. They’re outgoing and adapt well to most environments.
Feeding Tips: Keep their energy up with nutrient-rich food — Royal Canin Indoor or Pro Plan LiveClear work well.
Good to Know: They enjoy other pets and are rarely aggressive. They may follow you around like a puppy.
Interaction Advice: They love puzzle toys, teaser wands, and social play with both humans and other animals.
Housing Needs: Lively households suit them best, with perches, sunny windows, and space to play.
9. Birman
Overview: Birmans are gentle, loving cats with creamy coats and blue eyes. They’re ideal for families seeking a calm yet sociable cat.
Traits: Friendly, adaptable, balanced
Temperament: Birmans bond with all family members and adapt to households with kids, other pets, or seniors.
Feeding Tips: Provide a balanced diet that supports coat health — look for omega-rich dry food and high-moisture wet food.
Good to Know: Their semi-long coat requires only light grooming. They’re not overly demanding. If letting outdoors, ensure to get a quality cat flea treatment, such as Bravecto Plus or Advocate for cats.
Interaction Advice: Birman cats are gentle players and enjoy lap time and soft interaction.
Housing Needs: Ideal for indoor living, with soft spaces, gentle toys, and human interaction.
10. Sphynx
Overview: Famous for their hairless bodies and prominent cheekbones, Sphynx cats are affectionate, mischievous, and thrive on human interaction.
Traits: Warm, energetic, social
Temperament: They crave attention and dislike being left alone. Despite their appearance, they’re incredibly cuddly and enjoy snuggling for warmth.
Feeding Tips: Their high metabolism demands a nutrient-rich, calorie-dense diet. Look for Royal Canin Sphynx or high-protein wet food options.
Good to Know: They need regular bathing to remove skin oils, and sun protection when exposed to sunlight.
Interaction Advice: Keep them stimulated with tunnels, cat wheels, and high interaction. They’ll often greet visitors at the door.
Housing Needs: Warm, draft-free homes with plenty of blankets and beds. Heated pads are appreciated.
11. Russian Blue
Overview: With their silvery-blue coats and emerald green eyes, Russian Blues are elegant, gentle, and reserved.
Traits: Loyal, shy, intelligent
Temperament: They form deep bonds with their people but may be cautious around strangers. Ideal for quiet homes.
Feeding Tips: Moderate feeders — offer balanced formulas like Royal Canin Indoor or Hill's Science Diet for adult cats.
Good to Know: They shed less than many other breeds and are often tolerated by allergy sufferers.
Interaction Advice: Offer calm interaction — they love quiet games and soft talk, and respond well to routine.
Housing Needs: Quiet corners, high perches, and privacy. Avoid noisy environments.
12. Abyssinian
Overview: Abyssinians are one of the oldest and most active domestic cat breeds. Their ticked coats and alert expressions make them standout athletes.
Traits: Energetic, curious, extroverted
Temperament: Always on the move, they climb, jump, and explore constantly. Great for active households.
Feeding Tips: Support their active metabolism with energy-rich food. Consider Purina Pro Plan Active or Royal Canin Instinctive.
Good to Know: They’re not lap cats but love to interact and be involved in everything.
Interaction Advice: Provide high shelving, puzzle feeders, and daily active play. They’ll invent games if you don’t.
Housing Needs: Vertical space, secure balconies, and interactive toys.
13. Bengal Cat Breed
Overview: Bengals are striking with their leopard-like spots and high energy levels. Bred from Asian leopard cats, they’re smart and athletic.
Traits: Wild-looking, bold, confident
Temperament: Bengals are extremely playful and intelligent. They may open doors, turn on taps, and talk constantly.
Feeding Tips: Protein-heavy diets are essential. Try high-meat-content options like Ziwi Peak or Orijen.
Good to Know: Not for the faint-hearted! They require experienced owners with time and patience.
Interaction Advice: Clicker training, leash walks, and problem-solving games are a must. They enjoy water play.
Housing Needs: Secure environments, large climbing towers, and engaging stimulation.
14. Devon Rex
Overview: Known for their short, curly coats and elfin features, Devon Rex cats are playful, affectionate, and love being the center of attention.
Traits: Mischievous, quirky, people-oriented
Temperament: These cats are silly and full of personality. They’ll perch on shoulders and follow you everywhere.
Feeding Tips: Feed a high-quality, digestible formula that supports their light frame — Royal Canin Digest Sensitive is ideal.
Good to Know: Their thin coats need protection from the cold. They also benefit from gentle wiping rather than full bathing.
Interaction Advice: Great for homes with kids or multiple pets — they’ll engage with everyone!
Housing Needs: Indoor environments with warm spots, cuddle nests, and low-jump furniture. Ensure to get a high quality cat litter.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cat breed in New Zealand is about more than just looks. Each breed comes with its own quirks, energy levels, grooming needs, and care preferences. Whether you're looking for a calm indoor companion or a high-energy explorer, there’s a perfect feline for every household.
Take the time to match your lifestyle with your future cat’s temperament and needs — and don’t forget to stock up on essentials like nutritious food, cozy beds, and plenty of enrichment toys from PetSupply.co.nz.
Sources:
- Companion Animals NZ Report 2022
- Royal Canin Breed Library
- Hill's Pet Nutrition
- NZ Cat Fancy
- Breed profiles cross-referenced via VetStreet and CFA