Top 10 Most Intelligent Cat Breeds
Cats are fascinating creatures. They constantly observe human interactions and give reactions accordingly. It’s a common belief that some cat breeds might have managed to hold on to some characteristics that helped them survive in the wild, which has contributed to their higher intelligence making them the most intelligent cat breeds of all time.
As per researchers, a feline brain is said to be identical to that of the most intelligent animals in the ecosystem. This cat organ is divided into distinct compartments that are each specialized and interconnected, much like that of a human. As a result, cats exhibit a similar understanding, almost human-like, of their environment and the capacity to react to it appropriately.
How Can You Measure Cat Intelligence?
Cats are more ‘intelligent’ than other animals because of their ability to understand and respond to human moods. Although there isn’t an accurate way to measure the intellectual capabilities of felines, some features can correspond to their intelligence. This deals with various aspects like understanding time and quantities, retaining memory and information, personality traits and behavior, etc.
A few of these breeds are smarter than the others, making them the pet of choice. They are easier to train and require constant mental stimulation.
The Smartest and the Most Intelligent Cat Breeds
The most intelligent cats depict a lot of energy and are quite mischievous. They take up challenges and keep themselves busy doing one thing or the other. They understand human languages and react to moods. The 10 most intelligent cat breeds are:-
10. Singapura
This breed originated from Singapore, as the name suggests. These are gorgeous cats that are highly intelligent and very small in size. They love being friendly and playful, even with other cats and dogs. They use their skills to bring everyone’s attention to them- making them socially smart.
Physical characteristics:
- Round-headed
- Large angular green/ hazel/ yellow eyes
- Compact body
- Relatively short tails
9. Siamese
The Siamese is the most popular cat breed around the world. They have extremely beautiful coats and are eye-catching. Also well known for their affectionate nature and loyalty. They have unique vocal behavior- and do not like to be neglected. They require significant activities to keep them busy throughout the day.
Physical Characteristics:
- Lean neck
- Sleek body
- Darkened features on the body
- Almond-shaped eyes
8. Savannah
Savannah is one of the athletic and wild-looking breeds of cats. They are extremely affectionate and loving towards their caretakers. These breeds are exotic and are developed by performing a cross between wild African servals with domestic cats. They like a larger surface to jump on, run and play. These kitties are at their best when they are entertained outdoors, with trees and interactive toys.
Physical Characteristics:
- Golden coat with textures
- Erect ears
- Tall and lean body
7. Korat
The ‘good luck cats’ or the Korat belong to the native regions of Thailand. They are deeply intelligent and form emotional bonds with their pet parents. They quickly learn commands and respond to them. Being the obvious attention-seekers, they enjoy learning tricks to bring the focus to themselves.
Physical Characteristics:
- Blue-grey hair coat
- Heart-shaped head
- Large eyes
6. Havana Brown
This relatively rare cat breed is developed by crossing Siamese with other cat breeds. They are fond of socialization and are very inquisitive. Along with enjoying brain teasers, they love getting physically and mentally challenged by their human companions. They are quieter than other pets and very investigative about their surroundings.
Physical Characteristics:
- Green eyes
- Smooth and glossy hair
- Large ears
Also Read: Fun Facts About Cats
5. Cornish Rex
These cat breeds are known for their unique beauty. This cat breed constantly needs a companion to play with. They are considered to be dog-like in terms of outdoor fetching and playing. They can vault up to the highest position in the house and are quite mischievous.
Physical Characteristics:
- Wavy coat
- Large ears
- Oblong face
- High cheekbones
4. Burmese
These are the most energetic cat species along with being among the cleverest. Known for their characteristic hair color shades, these cats crave their family’s attention most of the time. They are responsive according to their moods and feel lonely in the absence of their companion.
Physical Characteristics:
- Round and compact body
- Short and glossy coat
- Golden eyes
3. Bengal
These are extremely attractive and active cat breeds. Generally domesticated and smart, they have rosettes on their coat, which shows their ancestral connections to Asian leopards. They can be trained to follow their companion’s commands. They are intelligent and athletic and require huge vertical space to play and jump.
Physical Characteristics:
- Stripped and spotted coat
- Triangular-shaped head
- Thick tail
- Sleek body
2. Balinese
This long-haired beauty is considered a luxurious upgrade of the Siamese cat breed. They are active and chatty cats. They often vocalize themselves and keep their humans accompanied at all times. If left unattended, they get into mischief easily but are very affectionate around their companions.
Physical Characteristics:
- Long tubular body
- Blue eyes
- Triangular head
1. Abyssinian
This agile-looking cat is considered the most intelligent cat breed. They are very smart and follow their family members everywhere. They are adventurous and in constant need of attention. Along with having the ability to grasp tricks quickly,− these beautiful cats are the smartest among all the cat breeds. Being fierce and highly curious, they need constant entertainment and company.
Physical Characteristics:
- Tall ears
- Slender body
- Ticked coat with color texture
Other Intelligent Cat Breeds:
Although the above-mentioned breeds are considered the most intelligent ones, other breeds are smart too. The Turkish Angora, Persian, Japanese Bobtail, and Scottish Fold are other eye-catching beauties with brains, originating from different parts of the world. These are engaging breeds and will accompany you at all times.
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