9 cat breeds that experts say are the smartest (10 photos)
It's hard to find anyone who doubts that cats are incredibly smart. These furry creatures are the real Einsteins of the animal world, as sometimes it seems that the only thing they can't do is talk. Cats adapt well to changing environments, are trainable and have excellent memory.
However, which breeds have the highest level of intelligence? Or can all members of the cat family boast a sharp mind equally? English and European researchers wanted to understand these questions. They voiced their versions to the Daily Mail. Let's see what conclusions they came to.
Abyssinian cat
Country of origin: Ethiopia
Weight: 3-6 kilograms
An interesting study assessing the intelligence of different cat breeds was conducted by the University of Helsinki in 2021. During it, scientists tested 4,300 cats representing 26 breed groups. The study identified seven traits by which experts tried to assess furry mental abilities: playfulness, fearfulness, aggression and sociability towards people, sociability towards cats, problems with the litter box and self-care. The final results were quite interesting.
Thus, the Abyssinian cat is one of the smartest breeds. The animal is very inquisitive and active. It gets along well with dogs, cats and birds. Abyssinians are known for their independence and stubborn nature. They require constant mental stimulation, so owners need to take care of purchasing toys and puzzles for animals.
Bengal cat
Country of Origin: USA
Weight: 5-6 kilograms
Cats of this breed are famous for their good memory; they also easily learn tricks and can open cabinet doors. These cats require constant mental stimulation and physical exercise, otherwise they will regularly cause a real Armageddon in your home.
Researchers note that the Bengal cat's high intelligence may be due to its ancestral relationship with the Asian leopard cat.
Burmese or Burmese shorthair cat
Country of Origin: Burma
Weight: 5-6 kilograms
This is an energetic, curious and playful breed that loves interactive toys and is highly trainable. Unlike Abyssinians and Bengals, these cats crave attention; they will literally chase their owner until they receive the necessary amount of communication.
Cornish Rex
Country of origin: England
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
This is an athletic breed that loves to run, jump and explore. Therefore, these cats do very poorly in small spaces. In character, Cornish Rex cats are closer to Burmese cats. They do not tolerate separation from their owner well and cannot stand prolonged loneliness.
Scottish fold cat
Country of origin: UK, Scotland
Weight: 2.7-6 kilograms
One of the smartest cat breeds. To prevent the intellectual abilities of pets from deteriorating, they need games and toys. Despite their intelligence, they are much less active than representatives of other breeds, so owners should be aware that already round cats quickly gain excess weight. Their diet must be carefully monitored.
Singapura cat
Country of Origin: Singapore
Weight: 2-3 kilograms
The Singapura cat is incredibly energetic. Don't look at its modest size. This breed requires constant hunting and interactive play. Loves being in the company of people.
Siamese cat
Country of origin: Thailand
Weight: 3-6 kilograms
Known for its beauty, the Siamese cat is also one of the most intelligent breeds. These cats are greatThey are trainable and can easily learn to walk on a leash. They are talkative.
Angora cat
Country of origin: Türkiye
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
These cats boast not only high intelligence, but also a soft, affectionate character. They are extremely dependent on human communication and are very demanding in terms of attention. Experts have been repeatedly surprised by the ability of Angora cats to open any doors, cabinets and even taps.
Japanese Bobtail
Country of Origin: Japan
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
Like dogs, these cats are capable of learning many commands. They are quite active and energetic, so they need plenty of space to play. They are extremely dependent on communication with the owner, so if possible they try to constantly follow him and take part in all his affairs.
The results of the study are approximate. Scientists noted that today, unfortunately, there is no standardized test to measure the intelligence of cats. Experts are convinced that each breed has its own unique set of characteristics, which allowed it to adapt to environmental conditions, survive and become better.