The Nation's Most Popular Types of Cats

1. Exotic Shorthair Cats

For the third year in a row, the Exotic shorthair cat has been named America's most popular registered cat. The Exotic (also called the Exotic shorthair by some cat associations) is a cross between Persians and American Shorthairs.

Exotic cats are bred to meet the Persian standard in almost every way with one exception: their coats. Exotics, unlike their Persian counterparts, have short, thick, dense coats, making them popular among people who enjoy the Persian personality but don’t want the hassle or the time required for daily grooming. The Exotic personality tends to mimic that of a Persian: sweet, affectionate, and playful. Exotic cats are known to show more affection and loyalty than other feline breeds and commonly follow their owners throughout the home. This is what makes them the best cat breed in many owners' eyes and has endeared them to cat owners around the globe.

Read more about Exotic shorthair cats.

For more information about the Cat Fanciers' Association and lists of the most popular cat breeds from other years,