The Most Popular Cat Breeds in 2026: US, UK and Japan Rankings

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The CFA’s Annual Breed Ranking
CFA Top 10: The Most Popular Cat Breeds of 2026
The Most Popular Cat Breeds in the UK
Popular Cat Breeds Up Close
The Most Popular Cat Breeds in Japan

Every year, cat registries publish their rankings of the most popular cat breeds, and the list changes more than you might think. Let’s look at the latest rankings from the US, the UK and Japan and talk about why these breeds are so loved.

The CFA’s Annual Breed Ranking

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats, publishes a ranking of the most popular breeds every year. The ranking is based on the number of pedigreed kittens registered with the association during the previous year. The CFA currently recognizes 45 pedigreed breeds, and the most popular of them make its Top 10.

CFA Top 10: The Most Popular Cat Breeds of 2026

The Maine Coon took first place for the second year in a row, ending the Ragdoll’s long run at the top.

Good to know!

Pedigreed cats make up only about 5% of the cat population. The other 95% are mixed-breed companions, the “domestic shorthairs” and “domestic longhairs” (or “moggies,” as the British call them).

The Most Popular Cat Breeds in the UK

In the UK, the main pedigree registry is the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). Its registration figures tell a different story: the native British Shorthair has been the UK’s most popular pedigree for decades, by a wide margin. The top three are:

The Siamese and the Bengal are also perennial British favorites.

Popular Cat Breeds Up Close

Here are the breeds that keep showing up in the rankings and in cat lovers’ searches, and what makes each of them so appealing.

Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is the most popular cat breed in the US right now. Americans love their big homegrown breed, and these impressive giants regularly top the charts on both sides of the Atlantic. Maine Coons win people over with their calm, easygoing nature, independence and intelligence. They aren’t clingy and don’t appreciate being handled too familiarly. These rugged giants combine wild-looking power with a remarkably gentle personality.

Siamese

The Siamese has been known and loved in America and Britain for well over a century. These beauties with their striking “pointed” coloring are one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. Siamese cats win hearts with their intelligence and devotion to their people. In many ways they act like dogs: they learn tricks and commands easily and love spending time with their humans. The breed is social, playful and very talkative. You’ll never be bored with a Siamese around.

Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is a fashionable breed around the world, and these plush cats with funny folded ears are much loved in the US. They’re calm and independent companions who enjoy being around people and joining in kids’ games. But you can pet a Fold only when it wants to be petted.

Keep in mind that the gene that folds the ears also affects cartilage and bones elsewhere in the body, which can lead to painful joint problems. That’s why the UK’s GCCF doesn’t recognize the breed, and why you should only buy from a responsible breeder who knows the risks.

Abyssinian

Abyssinians regularly rank among the most social cats, which is one reason they’re so popular. With a smart, active, outgoing Aby around, nobody gets lonely. These cats love being in the middle of everything that happens at home. Playful and curious, they’re true explorers and won’t settle down until they’ve investigated every corner of the house. A signature trait of the breed is “helping” their owners with everything.

British Shorthair

These aristocratic-looking cats with independent personalities have won hearts far beyond Britain. They love their people, but in their own way. British Shorthairs don’t need constant contact; they’re perfectly self-sufficient and cope well with a busy owner’s workday. British Shorthairs are charming, but they don’t want to be treated like stuffed toys. They’re independent, expect to be treated with respect and firmly shut down any attempts at over-familiarity.

Bengal

Bengals have become much more popular in recent years. Their wild look and striking coats attract a lot of cat lovers. But Bengals aren’t for everyone. Their energy level is off the charts, and they need lots of space, enrichment and attention. They’re very trainable and quickly get used to walking on a harness, which makes them good travel companions. A signature trait of the breed is a love of water. Before you buy, check local rules: some places, such as New York City and Hawaii, restrict or ban Bengals.

Siberian

This cat with a luxurious coat and a friendly personality only arrived in the US in 1990, but it has already climbed into the CFA Top 10. Part of its appeal is a reputation as a better choice for people with mild allergies, since many Siberians produce less of the main cat allergen. Siberians are smart and quick-witted and stay playful for years. They don’t pester their owners, aren’t destructive and are relaxed around children. This good-natured companion has a strong sense of its own dignity.

Sphynx

Hairless cats stand apart among the popular breeds. The Sphynx craze isn’t new, but it isn’t slowing down either. These unusual cats with their alien looks often appear on lists of the scariest breeds, yet Sphynx lovers adore their pets’ unusual appearance. And they’re not just a curiosity that’s nice to touch: Sphynx cats are loyal, affectionate and cheerful companions.

Ragdoll

For years the Ragdoll was the CFA’s number one breed, and it’s still the UK’s second favorite. It’s easy to see why. Ragdolls have a gentle, affectionate nature and can go completely limp and relaxed in their owner’s arms. They’re calm, trusting and devoted. A Ragdoll is a real treasure for anyone who wants someone to cuddle and care for.

Persian

For decades these fluffy, flat-faced cats topped the CFA rankings, and they’re still in the Top 3. Dignified and serene, Persians are the embodiment of luxury and coziness. Persians are calm and unobtrusive and respect their owners’ personal space. Easygoing by nature, they love their people deeply and gratefully accept affection and attention.

Russian Blue

This clever, playful cat is very active but careful. A Russian Blue takes time to warm up to its owner but stays loyal for life. It’s wary of strangers and prefers to hide somewhere quiet when guests come over. The Russian Blue doesn’t like being squeezed or petted too much; it prefers simply being near its person. Gentle and mild-mannered, these cats still have a mind of their own. They’re very sensitive to their owners’ moods and are always ready to listen and comfort.