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Cat Fanciers’ Association Releases List of Popular Cat Breeds of 2026

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  May 8th, 2026

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) releases a list of the top cat breeds every March, and the list is based on data from the previous year. They recently released the top pedigreed cat breeds list for 2026, based on 2025 registrations. Who made the list this time around?

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Top 10 Cat Breeds According to CFA


1. Maine Coon

2. Ragdoll

3. Persian

4. Exotic

5. Devon Rex

6. Abyssinian

7. British Shorthair

8. Siberian

9. American Shorthair

10. Russian Blue


What’s Noteworthy About These Breeds?


There’s something special about every cat breed, whether it’s an aspect of their personality or their appearance. When it comes to the breeds on this top 10 list, there are some noteworthy features that are worth mentioning.


  • Maine Coons are gentle giants, famous for their large size, loyalty, playfulness, and friendliness, and this isn’t the first time the breed has topped this list.


  • Ragdolls have lovely blue eyes and long fur, but they’re especially loved for their loyal, friendly, and affectionate personality.


  • Persians are known for their unique face and sweet disposition, as well as their luxuriously long coat that requires a lot of grooming to keep it healthy.


  • The Exotic breed was developed with Persian cats but has a medium coat, and these kitties are beloved for their adaptable and quiet personality.


  • The Devon Rex, a curly haired cat, is devoted and loving, and according to CFA, has been the most popular shorthaired breed for the last five years.


  • Abyssinians have a ticked coat with stunning colors, but in addition to being beautiful, these cats are smart, curious, and active.


  • The British Shorthair is known for an adorable appearance, with round eyes and a round head, but pet parents also love the feel of this breed’s super dense coat.


  • The Siberian is a breed from Russia, so these large cats have a gorgeous triple coat, in addition to a loving personality that makes them ideal companions.


  • American Shorthairs make great family pets, and the breed has made its way back into the top 10 list this year, showing that the public has a renewed interest in it.


  • Russian Blues sport a gorgeous gray coat and beautiful eyes, and are popular for their affectionate personality and high intelligence.


Which cat breed is your favorite? Remember that if you want to welcome one of these kitties into your family, it’s best to search for reputable breeders or breed-specific rescues with cats and kittens who need loving homes.


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Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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