Based on research, some cat breeds show higher intelligence as they tend to be more active and friendly towards humans and other animals.
Although there is no universal measure of cat intelligence, studies have examined how cats’ adaptability, curiosity levels, and need for mental stimulation correlate with their intelligence. Research has also delved into their sociability with humans and other pets, as well as the extent to which they are willing to interact with their owners and other animals.
Here are five smart cat breeds based on several research studies:
Abyssinians are known for their wide ears and almond-shaped eyes in gold or green. They have a slender yet athletic body supported by small oval paws. Genetic tests suggest that Abys originated in the coastal regions of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Abyssinians are renowned for their high level of curiosity. They enjoy investigating interesting things, checking every corner of an area, and climbing trees or walls. These cats need mental stimulation, so owners are advised to provide various interactive toys to keep them entertained and stress-free.
Despite being known for their independence and dislike of being hugged, Abyssinians are happiest when with other Abyssinian cats and are friendly towards dogs, cats, children, and other pets like parrots and ferrets.
Bengals are the result of crossbreeding domestic cats with wild Asian leopard cats in 1963. They have high cheekbones, dark markings around their eyes, and small, pointed ears that are rounded at the tips. Their fur has a marble-like leopard pattern with a mix of orange and brown colors.
Bengals are known for their excellent memory, high activity levels, vocal nature, and their ability to easily learn tricks, including how to open cupboard doors. Mental stimulation and interactive toys are crucial for Bengals; otherwise, they can become destructive and even depressed if understimulated. Some Bengals can be walked on a leash like dogs or even trained to give a high five.
Siamese cats have small heads with large, triangular ears. They have almond-shaped blue eyes and a long, slender body, with longer hind legs and a long, thin tail.
Siamese cats have a strong personality and are considered intelligent because of their high interactivity and social nature, making them friendly with other animals and children. Their voices are louder than those of other cat breeds that enjoy talking. However, they often experience separation anxiety and may be better off when paired or when someone is at home all the time. They are smart problem solvers, so they need puzzles or interactive toys to provide mental stimulation and keep them happy.
Burmese cats have a compact, muscular body with a round head and expressive eyes. Their ears are medium-sized, with rounded tips slightly tilted forward.
Burmese cats are energetic, curious, enjoy playing, and learn new tricks. Unlike Abyssinians and Bengals, these cats want to spend as much time as possible with their owners and don’t like being left alone; if left alone, they can become stressed, often excessively grooming themselves.
They are also known for being talkative, stemming from their Siamese ancestors, but their voices are softer and sweeter. If you’re looking for a calm pet, Burmese may not be the right choice, as they are highly active.
Cornish Rex cats have bat-like ears, large eyes, and very short, wavy fur. These active cats have a small body resembling that of a whippet dog. The first Cornish Rex was born in 1950 from a barn cat and an unknown species.
Cornish Rex cats are athletic and known for their climbing, jumping, and running abilities, requiring sufficient space to move around. They have very high energy levels and are often compared to Border Collies, known as one of the most energetic and intelligent dog breeds, requiring plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Like Burmese cats, Cornish Rex cats love being with their owners and can even be trained to walk on a leash.