How to choose a cat who will actually be your friend: Expert reveals the most elusive breeds - and those with the warmest personalities

Cats have a reputation for being mysterious and aloof, but some are more so than others.

Just like dogs, cats' personalities differ depending on their breed, naturally making some of them far friendlier, elusive or even more 'dog-like' than others.

While some breeds might see you as their housemate or best friend, for others humans as nothing more than their personal wait staff.

Of course, every cat is different, and opting for particular breed doesn't necessarily guarantee a specific set of personality traits but it's always worth learning more before you commit.

Some are better suited than others to family life or co-existing with other pets, while certain types prefer a more solitary and independent life.

Oxford-educated chemist and founder of Tribal Pet Foods Fatima Maktari said: 'When choosing a cat, it's important to understand the natural instincts and characteristics of different breeds and ultimately choose a cat that suits your lifestyle and your home – for instance, the cat will need to feel comfortable with a dog if you have one, and vice versa.' 

From the couch potato to cat in need of constant stimulation, here are the most elusive cat breeds according to the experts, as well as those to pick if you're looking for a friendly companion.

Maine Coon are ideal family cats

British Blues are a great cat breed for first-time cat owners

Sokoke

'A Sokoke can be tricky to pin down because they love exploring – you might even think from time to them that they've left home,' said Millbourne.

He added: ‘If you're set on this rare breed, you can tap into their natural hunting instincts through feeding activities, such as puzzle feeders or hiding small portions of their food around the home. This encourages them to explore and keeps their minds stimulated,’ adds Milbourne.

Bengal

Like miniature leopards, Bengal cats are not built for an indoors lifestyle.

Dr Brynden said: 'They are wild-derived, fiercely independent, very vocal and can be remarkably challenging to handle. Without endless mental stimulation, puzzle toys and vertical territory, they will create their own entertainment – usually by tearing up your home.'

Unlike some of the other cat breeds on this list, the Bengal cat is not a beginner-friendly breed. According to Dr Brynden: 'They are high-octane cats that require an experienced owner.'

British Blue

According to Milbourne: ‘This breed is one of the most registered pedigree cat breeds in the UK, yet they can be quite elusive.'

'A British Shorthair will love to find the tightest and darkest of spaces and nestle up. They will happily sleep undisturbed for hours on end. Owners will wonder where they are and find them in the oddest of spaces, such as behind a wardrobe or inside the laundry basket.

'If you aren't clued up on your cat's secret hiding spaces, you may frantically be searching for them!’

But despite their Houdini-like instincts, these cats are people-centred and are generally quite low-maintenance.

Dr Brynden said: 'If you want an affectionate, low-fuss pet around the house, British Shorthairs are practically like small dogs in feline form.'

British shorthairs are a great fit for families or first-time owners, just beware that this couch potato breed is prone to obesity.

Chartreux

The breed is famous for having a nearly silent meow but that doesn't make them low-maintenance. 

'Chartreux cats have a strong need to hunt and may bring unwanted guests to your door,' said Millbourne.

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Ragdolls are a very 'dog-like' cat breed

Maine Coons love to be involved with whatever their owner is doing

Ragdolls

Ragdolls are fairly dog-like in their demeanour; they're exceptionally sociable and love to play with people and other animals.

Dr Brynden said: 'They're famously placid, docile and will famously flop into your arms like a rag doll (as the name suggests.'

She added: 'Big cats come with big responsibilities. Don't underestimate that coat, without daily, dedicated grooming, their long fur will mat very quickly, which is both painful for the cat and difficult to treat.'

Maktari said: 'They definitely have a dog-like devotion when it comes to their owners.' 

Maine Coons

Maine Coons are huge gentle giants. In fact, a male Maine Coon can weigh up to 11 kilos; that's about three times heavier than a small dog.

Maine Coons are the ideal breed if you're looking for a furry companion (or shadow) given their dog-like demeanour and socialness.

According to Dr Brynden: 'Maine Coons are big, goofy extroverts who want to be involved in whatever you’re doing.'

Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest cat is friendly and gentle without being too needy and demanding. They're not lap cats, but according to Dr Brynden 'their calm temperament makes them a good choice for families with children and other pets'.

She also said: 'Hardy, intelligent and muscular, the Norwegian Forest Cat is one of the more active breeds of the Felines. These cats love to climb and hunt, so outdoor space is recommended.'