Cats are often thought of as independent creatures who refuse to follow commands, but some breeds break that stereotype. Certain felines are intelligent, eager to please, and even capable of learning tricks like fetching, sitting on command, or giving high-fives. These cats enjoy mental stimulation and bond closely with their owners, making them surprisingly trainable. On the other hand, some breeds prefer doing things on their own terms, ignoring training efforts even if treats are involved. Let’s explore 10 cat breeds that excel at learning tricks and 10 that embrace their independent nature.

1. Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is a highly intelligent and energetic breed that thrives on interaction and problem-solving. These cats love engaging in mentally stimulating activities, making them excellent candidates for training. They can quickly learn to play fetch, sit on command, or even navigate obstacle courses. Their natural curiosity and high energy levels keep them motivated to participate in learning sessions. Owners who use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, will find that Abyssinians pick up tricks remarkably fast. Additionally, their love for climbing and exploration makes them receptive to agility training.

2. Bengal

Bengals are known for their striking leopard-like coats and boundless energy, but they are also among the most trainable cats. They have a dog-like personality, enjoying activities like retrieving toys, performing high jumps, and responding to their name. Their sharp intelligence allows them to master complex tricks, including turning on lights or opening doors. Many Bengals also enjoy walking on a leash, making them great adventure companions. Training a Bengal requires patience and consistency, but with the right approach, they can learn an impressive range of skills. Their playful and active nature ensures they stay engaged in training.

3. Maine Coon

Despite their large size, Maine Coons are gentle, affectionate, and highly trainable. They love human interaction and can easily learn tricks like high-fives, rolling over, or retrieving toys. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, especially when rewarded with treats or affection. Many Maine Coons can even be trained to walk on a leash, making them excellent companions for outdoor adventures. Their playful and curious nature means they enjoy puzzle toys and games that challenge their minds. Training a Maine Coon can be a rewarding experience, as they form strong bonds with their owners.

4. Siamese

Siamese cats are highly intelligent, vocal, and social, making them one of the easiest breeds to train. They crave human attention and enjoy mental challenges, which makes them eager to participate in trick training. Many Siamese cats can be taught to fetch, shake paws, or even respond to voice commands. Their inquisitive nature makes them quick learners, and they often enjoy puzzle toys and interactive games. Clicker training works particularly well for this breed, as they respond positively to praise and rewards. Owners who dedicate time to training a Siamese will find that these cats love the challenge.

5. Savannah

Savannah cats, a hybrid between a domestic cat and a serval, are among the most intelligent and trainable feline breeds. Their high energy levels and natural curiosity make them excellent learners. Savannahs can be trained to perform impressive tricks, including jumping through hoops, retrieving items, and even giving high-fives. They are also highly responsive to leash training and enjoy exploring the outdoors with their owners. Due to their intelligence, Savannahs require plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom. With the right motivation, such as treats and interactive play, they can master a variety of skills.

6. Scottish Fold

Scottish Folds may be best known for their unique folded ears, but they are also remarkably smart and trainable. These affectionate cats enjoy learning tricks that involve interaction, such as sitting, rolling over, or giving a paw. They respond well to clicker training and positive reinforcement techniques. Because they form strong bonds with their owners, they are more willing to engage in training activities. Scottish Folds also enjoy puzzle toys that challenge their intelligence. While they are not as hyperactive as some other trainable breeds, they are still eager to participate in fun learning sessions.

7. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are famous for their relaxed and affectionate nature, but they are also intelligent enough to learn tricks. They enjoy games like fetch and can be trained to follow simple commands such as “sit” or “come.” Their cooperative disposition makes them more receptive to learning than other laid-back breeds. Because they form deep bonds with their owners, they are more inclined to engage in training activities. Positive reinforcement works well for Ragdolls, as they thrive on affection and gentle encouragement. While they may not be as energetic as other trainable breeds, their willingness to interact makes training enjoyable.

8. Turkish Van

Turkish Vans are known for their love of water and playful personalities. They are highly intelligent and capable of learning tricks such as fetching toys, responding to their names, and even performing agility exercises. Because of their energetic nature, they need regular mental stimulation, and training sessions provide an excellent outlet for their curiosity. These cats respond well to interactive play, and some owners have even trained them to enjoy swimming-related tricks. Turkish Vans are highly motivated by rewards and can quickly pick up on commands with patience and consistency.

9. Burmese

Burmese cats are affectionate, people-oriented, and naturally inquisitive, making them easy to train. Their love for human interaction means they respond well to voice commands, clicker training, and reward-based learning. Burmese cats enjoy activities like playing fetch, jumping through hoops, or even walking on a leash. Because they are highly social, training can be a great bonding experience for them and their owners. Their playful personality ensures they stay engaged in learning new tricks, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy interactive play.

10. American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is an adaptable and intelligent breed that enjoys mental challenges. These cats can quickly learn tricks such as retrieving toys, sitting on command, or even coming when called. Their even-tempered nature makes them great for first-time cat owners who want a trainable yet independent companion. They respond well to positive reinforcement, especially when rewarded with treats or playtime. With consistency and patience, American Shorthairs can master a variety of skills, making them one of the more trainable cat breeds.

10 Cat Breeds That Prefer Doing Things Their Own Way

While some cats thrive on interaction and enjoy learning new tricks, others prefer to live life on their own terms. These independent breeds are highly intelligent but often see no benefit in following human commands. Instead, they enjoy exploring, lounging, or hunting at their own pace. While training them isn’t impossible, it requires significantly more patience and persistence. These breeds tend to be more self-reliant, making them perfect for owners who appreciate a cat with a strong sense of individuality. Here are 10 cat breeds that prefer to do things their own way.

1. Persian

Persians are one of the most laid-back cat breeds, preferring a relaxed lifestyle over high-energy activities. Their calm and gentle demeanor makes them wonderful companions, but they lack the motivation to learn tricks. While they enjoy attention, they typically resist structured training sessions, choosing instead to lounge comfortably. Persians appreciate routine and dislike being disturbed from their naps for something as trivial as learning a trick. They are affectionate but independent, responding to interaction on their terms rather than out of obedience or training.

2. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is a dignified breed known for its reserved nature. While these cats are intelligent, they are not particularly interested in learning commands or tricks. They prefer observing their surroundings rather than actively engaging in training sessions. British Shorthairs are affectionate but not clingy, and they do not seek approval in the same way that more trainable breeds do. Their independent streak makes them self-sufficient and content with a predictable routine. While they may occasionally indulge in interactive play, they are unlikely to follow commands simply for a treat.

3. Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Forest Cats are natural-born hunters with an independent spirit. These cats are intelligent and resourceful but rarely see the point in performing tricks. They prefer climbing, exploring, and entertaining themselves rather than participating in structured training. Norwegian Forest Cats enjoy human companionship, but they also value their freedom, making them less likely to respond to commands. Their thick coats and strong build make them well-suited for outdoor adventures, where they can satisfy their curiosity in their own way. While they can be affectionate, they prefer interactions on their own terms.

4. Russian Blue

Russian Blues are highly intelligent but also incredibly reserved, making them one of the least trainable cat breeds. While they bond deeply with their owners, they are independent thinkers who prefer to make decisions for themselves. These cats can be shy around strangers and are not easily motivated by treats or praise. Instead of learning tricks, Russian Blues enjoy quiet environments where they can relax and observe from a distance. They do appreciate companionship but are selective about when and how they engage with their owners, making them less likely to participate in training efforts.

5. Scottish Straight

Unlike their folded-ear counterparts, Scottish Straights tend to be more independent and less trainable. They are gentle and friendly but prefer a life of comfort and leisure over structured activities. While they enjoy playtime, they are not particularly interested in learning tricks or following commands. Scottish Straights have a strong sense of autonomy, making them less responsive to training attempts. They are affectionate in their own way but prefer low-energy interactions, such as curling up beside their owners rather than actively engaging in training exercises.

6. Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras are energetic and playful but have a stubborn streak that makes training a challenge. These cats enjoy their independence and prefer to make their own decisions rather than follow human commands. While they are intelligent enough to learn tricks, they often refuse to participate unless they personally find it entertaining. Turkish Angoras love climbing, exploring, and getting into mischief, making them more interested in self-directed play than structured training. Their lively personalities keep them engaged, but they are not the type to perform tricks on demand.

7. Chartreux

The Chartreux is a quiet, thoughtful breed known for its independent nature. While these cats form deep bonds with their owners, they are not particularly motivated by training. Chartreux cats prefer a calm, predictable environment and tend to do things at their own pace. Their intelligence is evident in their problem-solving skills, but they do not enjoy repetitive training exercises. Instead of responding to commands, they rely on their own instincts and routines. Chartreux cats are affectionate in their unique way, often following their owners around the house but resisting attempts to be taught tricks.

8. Siberian

Siberians are strong, agile cats with a deep sense of independence. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and climbing to high places but are less interested in structured training. While they can be social and affectionate, they prefer engaging in natural behaviors such as hunting and climbing over learning tricks. Siberians are intelligent and capable of problem-solving, but they tend to use their smarts for their own benefit rather than to please their owners. Their semi-wild instincts make them more self-sufficient, and they prefer to play and interact on their own terms.

9. Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is one of the fastest domestic cat breeds, known for its sleek body and hunting abilities. While highly intelligent, these cats are independent thinkers who prefer to entertain themselves rather than engage in structured training. Egyptian Maus enjoy interactive play but are more focused on chasing and pouncing rather than following commands. They are deeply attached to their owners but do not feel the need to perform tricks for attention. Their love for movement and action makes them more interested in natural hunting behaviors than in learning artificial commands.

10. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthairs are affectionate, easygoing cats that enjoy lounging and relaxing rather than learning tricks. They are intelligent but have a laid-back personality that makes them less responsive to training. While they love human companionship, they prefer cuddling over active engagement in training exercises. Exotic Shorthairs are gentle and friendly but lack the high-energy drive needed to stay focused on learning commands. Their independent yet loving nature makes them great companions, but they are far more interested in a warm lap than in performing tricks.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!