30 Popular Cat Breeds in India: Best Cats for Every Home and Lifestyle

30 Popular Cat Breeds in India: Best Cats for Every Home and Lifestyle

Written by: Bharatraj Srinivasan

|

Published on

|

Time to read 11 min

Cats have quietly purred their way into Indian homes, hearts, and Instagram feeds. Whether you live in a cozy apartment in Mumbai or a breezy villa in Chennai, having a feline friend brings warmth, calm, and playfulness to everyday life.

But here’s the truth — not all cats thrive equally in Indian conditions. Some breeds need regular grooming or cooler climates, while others adapt perfectly to India’s heat and busy homes. Choosing the right cat breed makes all the difference in how happy and healthy your pet will be.

At Nativfarm, we believe in helping every pet parent make informed, compassionate choices — from choosing the right breed to feeding them healthy, preservative-free meals.

So, let’s dive into this ultimate guide to 30 popular cat breeds in India, complete with price, care, personality, and tips on which ones suit your lifestyle best.

Why Choosing the Right Cat Breed Matters

Cats may all look adorable — but their needs differ drastically. A Persian cat with long fur requires daily brushing and cool temperatures, while an Indian Desi cat barely sheds and can handle Chennai’s summer heat with ease.

Here are the main factors to consider before choosing your ideal cat breed in India:

1. Climate Compatibility

India’s weather can be challenging for long-haired breeds. If you live in humid cities like Chennai, Kochi, or Mumbai, short-haired cats like the Bombay or Siamese are ideal. Hill-station climates suit breeds like the Persian or Maine Coon better.

2. Maintenance and Grooming

Do you have the time to brush daily? Long-haired cats need extra care to avoid matting and hairballs. Short-haired breeds are generally easier to maintain.

3. Temperament and Lifestyle Fit

Are you home most of the day or away at work? Playful cats like Bengals need company and stimulation. Calm cats like Ragdolls or Persians are perfect for quieter homes.

4. Space and Activity Levels

For smaller apartments, low-energy breeds like British Shorthairs or Desi cats are ideal. Active cats like Abyssinians or Bengals need more room to explore.

5. Budget and Availability

Cat prices in India vary widely. Exotic breeds like Maine Coons and Sphynx cats can cost ₹50,000+, while Desi cats or Bombay cats are much more affordable — often available for adoption.

The 30 Most Popular Cat Breeds in India (2025 Guide)

Below, we explore 30 cat breeds loved across India, with their traits, care needs, ideal owners, and average prices.

Each breed is described so you can easily find your perfect match!

1. Persian Cat

  • Origin: Iran

  • Temperament: Gentle, calm, affectionate

  • Grooming Needs: Very high — daily brushing needed

  • Ideal For: Indoor homes, families, peaceful environments

  • Average Price in India: ₹15,000–₹30,000

  • Care Tip: Persians are prone to hairballs; feed them a high-fiber, protein-rich diet. Try Nativfarm’s grain-free cat food India range for better digestion and coat health.

2. Siamese Cat

  • Origin: Thailand

  • Temperament: Intelligent, vocal, playful

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Apartments, interactive owners

  • Average Price: ₹10,000–₹25,000

  • Care Tip: Siamese cats love attention. Keep them mentally active with toys and nutritious food to support their energy levels.

3. Maine Coon

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, dog-like loyalty

  • Grooming Needs: High — long coat

  • Ideal For: Large homes, families

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹60,000

  • Care Tip: They’re big eaters — opt for high-protein cat food to maintain muscle and prevent obesity.

4. Bengal Cat

  • Origin: Hybrid (Asian Leopard + Domestic Cat)

  • Temperament: Energetic, adventurous, intelligent

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Active families, pet lovers with space

  • Average Price: ₹20,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Bengals love playtime and climbing. Ensure a protein-rich diet and plenty of stimulation.

5. British Shorthair

  • Origin: UK

  • Temperament: Calm, loyal, great for kids

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Working professionals, apartments

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: Known for their plush coats — regular brushing helps reduce shedding.

6. Ragdoll

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, loves cuddles

  • Grooming Needs: Medium to high

  • Ideal For: Families, indoor homes

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹60,000

  • Care Tip: Ragdolls thrive on attention and love. Include Omega-3-rich cat food for a shiny coat.

7. Himalayan Cat

  • Origin: Cross between Persian and Siamese

  • Temperament: Sweet, calm, docile

  • Grooming Needs: High

  • Ideal For: Air-conditioned homes

  • Average Price: ₹20,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: Keep fur detangled and feed antioxidant-rich food for eye and skin health.

8. Bombay Cat

  • Origin: USA (resembles Indian black cats)

  • Temperament: Friendly, adaptable, affectionate

  • Grooming Needs: Very low

  • Ideal For: Indian climates, beginners

  • Average Price: ₹10,000–₹20,000

  • Care Tip: Perfect for Indian homes — give them high-protein, preservative-free food for strong immunity.

9. Norwegian Forest Cat

  • Origin: Norway

  • Temperament: Adventurous, calm, loyal

  • Grooming Needs: Medium-high

  • Ideal For: Cool climates

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Needs space and climbing areas. Use rich diets to maintain their dense coat.

10. Exotic Shorthair

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Sweet, easygoing, cuddly

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Apartments, families

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹45,000

  • Care Tip: They’re like short-haired Persians — minimal grooming but similar diet needs for coat shine.

Perfect 😺 — here’s Part 2 of your long-form SEO blog for Nativfarm.in, continuing seamlessly from Part 1.

This section covers cat breeds 11–20, along with a detailed breed comparison table, lifestyle recommendations, and more SEO-optimized content for keywords like best cat for Indian homes, cat breed price in India, low-maintenance cats, and friendly cats for families.

11. Birman Cat

  • Origin: Myanmar (Burma)

  • Temperament: Gentle, loving, friendly

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Families, calm environments

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: Their semi-long fur needs brushing twice a week. Include biotin-rich diets for silky coats.

12. Abyssinian Cat

  • Origin: Ethiopia

  • Temperament: Active, curious, athletic

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Playful, energetic owners

  • Average Price: ₹20,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: Perfect for warm climates. Feed protein-rich food to support high energy levels.

    👉 Nativfarm’s high-protein cat food India options are ideal for such breeds.

13. American Shorthair

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Friendly, adaptable, low-maintenance

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Busy pet owners, apartments

  • Average Price: ₹15,000–₹30,000

  • Care Tip: Regular brushing once a week keeps the coat shiny and healthy.

 

14. Scottish Fold

  • Origin: Scotland

  • Temperament: Sweet, quiet, affectionate

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Peaceful homes, singles

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Due to folded ears, clean ears regularly. Use joint-support supplements in food.

15. Russian Blue

  • Origin: Russia

  • Temperament: Calm, elegant, reserved

  • Grooming Needs: Very low

  • Ideal For: Quiet homes, professionals

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: They’re shy but affectionate. Provide a safe corner and feed vitamin-rich meals.

16. Sphynx Cat (Hairless Breed)

  • Origin: Canada

  • Temperament: Social, playful, attention-loving

  • Grooming Needs: Unique — needs skin cleaning instead of brushing

  • Ideal For: Air-conditioned homes

  • Average Price: ₹50,000–₹80,000

  • Care Tip: Use soft cloths for cleaning. Feed fatty acid-rich food for skin health.

17. Turkish Angora

  • Origin: Turkey

  • Temperament: Graceful, intelligent, playful

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Families with kids

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Keep their white coats clean with grooming twice a week.

18. Devon Rex

  • Origin: UK

  • Temperament: Lively, affectionate, intelligent

  • Grooming Needs: Very low

  • Ideal For: Apartments, active owners

  • Average Price: ₹35,000–₹60,000

  • Care Tip: Their curly fur requires gentle brushing. Provide protein-balanced meals for skin support.

19. Egyptian Mau

  • Origin: Egypt

  • Temperament: Loyal, active, talkative

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Families, warm climates

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹45,000

  • Care Tip: Loves interactive play. Feed antioxidant-rich diets for eye health.

20. Chartreux

  • Origin: France

  • Temperament: Quiet, loyal, affectionate

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Apartment dwellers

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Easy to groom — brush once a week and feed balanced, preservative-free meals.

Cat Breeds in India – 2025 Price and Maintenance Chart

Rank

Cat Breed

Price Range (₹)

Grooming Needs

Ideal For

Maintenance Level

1

Persian

15,000–30,000

High

Indoor, calm homes

High

2

Siamese

10,000–25,000

Low

Apartments

Low

3

Maine Coon

30,000–60,000

High

Spacious homes

High

4

Bengal

20,000–50,000

Medium

Active families

Medium

5

British Shorthair

25,000–40,000

Low

Professionals

Low

6

Ragdoll

30,000–60,000

Medium

Families

Medium

7

Bombay

10,000–20,000

Very Low

Indian homes

Very Low

8

Himalayan

20,000–40,000

High

Cool environments

High

9

Sphynx

50,000–80,000

Moderate

Air-conditioned homes

Medium

10

Desi Cat

Free–₹2,000

Very Low

Indian climate

Very Low

💡 Pro Tip: The Indian Desi Cat is one of the healthiest, most adaptable, and loving companions — perfect for our climate and low-maintenance lifestyle.

Best Cat Breeds for Different Indian Lifestyles

Cats, like humans, have different personalities. Whether you’re a busy professional or a large family with kids, here’s which breeds fit your lifestyle best:

For Apartment Living

  • Bombay

  • British Shorthair

  • Siamese

  • Exotic Shorthair

  • Desi Cat

These cats adapt easily to smaller spaces and are not overly active. They require minimal exercise and are perfect for city life.

For Families with Kids

  • Maine Coon

  • Ragdoll

  • Turkish Angora

  • Birman

  • Bengal

They are patient, affectionate, and playful, making them ideal for homes with children.

For Working Professionals

  • British Shorthair

  • Bombay Cat

  • Russian Blue

  • Chartreux

Independent yet loving, these breeds can manage alone for hours but still greet you with warmth when you return.

For Budget-Conscious Pet Parents

  • Indian Desi Cat

  • Siamese

  • Bombay

  • American Shorthair

Affordable, low maintenance, and adaptable — perfect for first-time owners.

For Hot Indian Climates

  • Bombay

  • Abyssinian

  • Egyptian Mau

  • Desi Cat

  • Siamese

These cats tolerate heat well and don’t require air conditioning year-round.

Bonus Tip: How to Feed Your Cat by Breed Type

Each cat breed has slightly different dietary needs, especially based on size, coat type, and activity level.

Breed Type

Ideal Diet

Why It Matters

Long-Haired Breeds (Persian, Himalayan)

High-protein, Omega-3-rich

Supports skin & coat health

Active Breeds (Bengal, Abyssinian)

High-calorie, lean protein

Maintains energy levels

Indoor Breeds (British Shorthair, Ragdoll)

Low-fat, high-fiber

Prevents weight gain

Hairless Breeds (Sphynx)

Fatty acid-rich

Nourishes skin

Desi / Short-Haired Cats

Balanced, preservative-free

Supports immunity & digestion

Explore Nativfarm’s preservative-free, healthy cat food India range — made for Indian climates and feline needs. Your cat deserves food that’s natural, wholesome, and delicious!

21. Oriental Shorthair

  • Origin: Thailand

  • Temperament: Outgoing, affectionate, talkative

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Families, interactive owners

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: They are social cats — they crave attention. Feed them a balanced diet to maintain sleek muscle tone.

22. Turkish Van

  • Origin: Turkey

  • Temperament: Energetic, playful, loves water

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Families, homes with space

  • Average Price: ₹35,000–₹55,000

  • Care Tip: They’re known as the “swimming cats.” Give them safe indoor playtime and a protein-rich meal plan.

23. Manx Cat

  • Origin: Isle of Man

  • Temperament: Loyal, friendly, calm

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Apartment living, families

  • Average Price: ₹20,000–₹35,000

  • Care Tip: Their tailless feature makes them unique. Feed joint-support formulas and keep them active.

24. LaPerm Cat

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Playful, affectionate, intelligent

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Families, cat lovers

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹45,000

  • Care Tip: Their curly fur requires gentle brushing; use biotin-rich food for hair strength.

25. Savannah Cat

  • Origin: Hybrid (Serval + Domestic Cat)

  • Temperament: Exotic, energetic, adventurous

  • Grooming Needs: Medium

  • Ideal For: Experienced cat owners

  • Average Price: ₹80,000–₹1,20,000

  • Care Tip: Highly active — requires space and stimulation. Feed premium high-protein diets for muscle support.

26. Japanese Bobtail

  • Origin: Japan

  • Temperament: Cheerful, intelligent, vocal

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Families, small homes

  • Average Price: ₹25,000–₹40,000

  • Care Tip: Very clean breed. Keep a consistent feeding schedule and provide hydration-rich food.

27. Cornish Rex

  • Origin: England

  • Temperament: Fun-loving, playful, sociable

  • Grooming Needs: Very Low

  • Ideal For: Apartments

  • Average Price: ₹35,000–₹60,000

  • Care Tip: Their thin coat needs warmth and nutrition rich in good fats.

28. Singapura Cat

  • Origin: Singapore

  • Temperament: Curious, affectionate, petite

  • Grooming Needs: Very Low

  • Ideal For: Apartment living

  • Average Price: ₹30,000–₹50,000

  • Care Tip: Small size means smaller meals — feed balanced food for energy and coat health.

29. Toyger

  • Origin: USA

  • Temperament: Active, affectionate, intelligent

  • Grooming Needs: Low

  • Ideal For: Families, experienced pet owners

  • Average Price: ₹60,000–₹90,000

  • Care Tip: Keep them stimulated. Include taurine-rich diets for heart health.

30. Indian Desi Cat (Domestic Shorthair)

  • Origin: India

  • Temperament: Smart, independent, loving

  • Grooming Needs: Very Low

  • Ideal For: Every Indian home

  • Average Price: Free – ₹2,000

  • Care Tip: These native cats are resilient and heat-tolerant. Feed simple, nutritious, preservative-free cat food — Nativfarm’s healthy cat food India range is perfect for them.

Low-Maintenance Cat Breeds in India

If you’re new to cat parenting or have a busy schedule, you’ll love these low-maintenance breeds that are easy to care for and perfect for India’s climate:

Cat Breed

Why It’s Low Maintenance

Bombay Cat

Sleek coat, heat-tolerant, minimal shedding

Desi Cat

Adapted to Indian weather, naturally healthy

British Shorthair

Calm temperament, low grooming needs

American Shorthair

Robust, easygoing nature

Siamese

Short hair, self-grooming habit

Chartreux

Quiet and clean with short fur

💡 Tip: Even low-maintenance cats thrive best with a good diet. Offer a mix of dry and wet cat food that’s free from artificial preservatives or fillers.

Popular Cat Breeds by Indian City

Mumbai

  • Persian

  • Bombay

  • British Shorthair

Urban, humid, apartment-friendly cats dominate Mumbai homes

Chennai

  • Siamese

  • Desi Cat

  • Abyssinian

Short-haired cats do best in Chennai’s hot, coastal weather.

Bangalore

  • Bengal

  • Ragdoll

  • Exotic Shorthair

  • Active yet adaptable cats loved by young professionals.

Delhi

  • Maine Coon

  • British Shorthair

  • Persian

Families prefer luxurious, social breeds in air-conditioned spaces.

Hyderabad & Pune

  • Birman

  • Russian Blue

  • Bombay Cat

Friendly, intelligent, and calm — great for families and working couples.

Cat Breed FAQs (SEO Section)

1. Which cat breed is best for Indian homes?

The Indian Desi Cat, Bombay, and Siamese are among the best breeds for Indian homes due to their adaptability to heat, low grooming needs, and affectionate nature.

2. Which is the most friendly cat breed in India?

Ragdolls and Maine Coons are extremely friendly and social. They love being around families, kids, and even other pets.

3. Which cat breed is low maintenance in India?

The Bombay Cat and Desi Cat require very little grooming and are perfectly suited to Indian climates.

4. What is the price of a cat in India?

Cat prices in India start as low as ₹2,000 for Indian breeds and can go up to ₹1,00,000 for exotic cats like the Savannah or Toyger.

5. Can I adopt a Desi cat instead of buying a breed?

Absolutely! Indian Desi cats are loving, smart, and naturally adapted to our weather. They make wonderful companions — and adoption saves lives.

6. Which cat breed is best for apartments?

Short-haired breeds like Siamese, British Shorthair, Bombay, and Exotic Shorthair are perfect for smaller spaces.

7. Which cat breeds can tolerate heat?

Siamese, Bombay, Abyssinian, and Desi Cats handle Indian heat much better than long-haired breeds like Persian or Himalayan.

8. Which cat breeds are most playful?

If you love energy and fun, go for Bengal, Abyssinian, or Savannah cats — they’re active and love to play.

9. Which cat breed is best for beginners?

Bombay, British Shorthair, and Desi Cats are easy to care for, friendly, and adapt well to first-time cat owners.

10. What food is best for my cat?

Always go for natural, preservative-free cat food with balanced protein and fats.

Nativfarm’s healthy cat food India range provides species-appropriate nutrition made with real ingredients — keeping your cat active, shiny, and healthy.

Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Feline Companion

Choosing the right cat breed isn’t about the fanciest fur or rarest color — it’s about finding the cat that fits your lifestyle, environment, and heart.

From luxurious Persians to humble yet hearty Desi cats, each feline brings something special into our lives. What truly matters is giving them love, safety, and the nutrition they deserve.

At Nativfarm, we believe that a healthy cat starts with healthy food.

Explore our range of natural, preservative-free cat food made for Indian homes and climates — because your cat deserves the best, every day.

So whether you’re welcoming a playful Bengal or a calm British Shorthair, remember: love, patience, and the right diet make every cat the perfect companion.