14 Cats That Could Be Professional Athletes (And 14 That Have the Coordination of a Potato)

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Mathew Abraham

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Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

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iuliiaalekseeva /123RF

Cats are known for their grace, agility, and sometimes, their hilarious clumsiness. While some breeds seem born to defy gravity with their acrobatic stunts, others trip over their own paws with surprising regularity. In this playful exploration, we’ll introduce you to 14 feline athletes who could easily go pro—and 14 who are as coordinated as a potato rolling down a hill. Whether you’re a fan of feline finesse or clumsy charm, there’s a cat on this list for you!

1. Abyssinian

Abyssinian cat standing on a log with a leash outdoors.
Tsapenkodg/Pixabay

Abyssinians are known for their exceptional agility and boundless energy. These athletic cats love to climb, jump, and explore their surroundings. Their muscular build and keen curiosity make them natural athletes who are always on the move. Abyssinians excel at feats of acrobatics and thrive in environments where they can explore vertical spaces. They require plenty of stimulation and interactive play to keep their agile minds and bodies engaged.

2. Bengal

Bengal cat walking through grass and flowers.
Currifex/Pixabay

Bengals are energetic and agile, with a love for running and jumping. Their sleek, muscular bodies are built for speed, and they often enjoy playing fetch or chasing toys. Known for their intelligence and high energy levels, Bengals are happiest when they have ample opportunities to exercise. Whether they are climbing to new heights or darting after a toy, Bengals exhibit athleticism in everything they do and need regular mental and physical challenges.

3. Savannah

Savannah kitten
Lindasj2/123rf

A hybrid between a domestic cat and a wild serval, the Savannah cat possesses unmatched athletic abilities. They are known for their impressive vertical jumps, sometimes reaching over eight feet. Savannahs have a lean and muscular build that supports their energetic and agile nature. These cats are curious and quick, always seeking new areas to explore. They require significant exercise and interactive play to channel their endless energy and keep their active minds stimulated.

4. Maine Coon

Orange Maine Coon cat standing on a tree branch.
KlausHausmann/Pixabay

Despite their large size, Maine Coons are remarkably agile. They are excellent climbers and possess surprising speed. Their playful and inquisitive nature ensures they remain active throughout their lives. These gentle giants use their powerful, muscular frames to perform impressive feats of athleticism. Maine Coons enjoy exploring high places, chasing toys, and engaging in playful interactions, which make them both agile and versatile athletes in the feline world.

5. Siberian

Siberian in the yard
Sunykiller/PixaBay

Siberian cats are natural athletes, built to thrive in rugged environments. They have powerful hind legs, making them skilled jumpers and climbers. Their playful and adventurous spirit drives them to explore high places. With a dense, muscular build and a love for physical activity, they excel at interactive games. Siberians enjoy playtime that challenges their agility and coordination while their curiosity compels them to constantly investigate new environments and activities.

6. Oriental Shorthair

Close-Up Shot of a Cat oriental shorthair
Krista/Pexels

Oriental Shorthairs are sleek and slender with an energetic personality. Their agile bodies allow them to climb and leap with ease. They are highly intelligent and enjoy puzzle toys and games that challenge their dexterity. Known for their social and curious demeanor, Oriental Shorthairs require consistent stimulation to satisfy their need for mental and physical activity. Their graceful and athletic movements make them captivating companions.

7. Turkish Van

A Turkish Van Cat
Simona Marinkova/Unsplash

Famous for their love of water, Turkish Vans are agile swimmers and exceptional jumpers. They are known for their strong hind legs, which enable them to leap to great heights. Turkish Vans are adventurous and playful, often seeking out new areas to climb and explore. Their love of activity, combined with their physical prowess, makes them both unique and agile. They thrive in homes that offer space for movement and opportunities for engaging play.

8. Ocicat

Ocicat
By Hansboskar – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

Ocicats are muscular and agile, with a fondness for interactive play. Their natural athleticism is evident in their love for running, jumping, and climbing. These energetic cats thrive on physical activity and are known for their strength and coordination. Ocicats enjoy games that simulate hunting and are happiest when they have room to roam and explore. Their combination of intelligence and agility makes them one of the most dynamic cat breeds.

9. Egyptian Mau

Beautiful egyptian mau cat lounging outdoors.
NO NAME/ pexels

The Egyptian Mau is one of the fastest domestic cat breeds, capable of running at speeds up to 30 mph. Their powerful legs and graceful agility allow them to excel at chasing games. This breed’s athletic ability is matched by their keen intelligence and curiosity. Egyptian Maus enjoy climbing and leaping to high perches, and their natural hunting instincts make them quick and responsive to movement, reinforcing their athletic reputation.

10. Cornish Rex

cornish rex
Anastasiya Badun/pixabay

With their lightweight frames and long legs, Cornish Rex cats are natural sprinters and jumpers. They are highly active and enjoy climbing to high places. Their playful and adventurous nature ensures they are constantly engaged in physical activities. Cornish Rexes are known for their love of interactive play and quick reflexes, making them excellent at chasing and catching toys. Their energy and athleticism make them ideal for homes with plenty of stimulation.

11. Japanese Bobtail

Japanese Bobtail
Itsme1007/Reddit

Japanese Bobtails are energetic and agile, with a love for climbing and exploring. Their strong, muscular legs provide excellent jumping ability. These playful cats are known for their athleticism and excel in games that require agility and quick reflexes. Japanese Bobtails enjoy interactive toys and are always eager to engage with their humans. Their love for movement and natural coordination make them one of the most active and athletic breeds.

12. Somali

Somali Cat
grase/123rf

Somali cats are agile and energetic, with a love for high places. Their athletic prowess is complemented by their playful nature, and they enjoy interactive games that challenge their coordination. Their long, muscular bodies make them excellent jumpers. Somalis thrive in environments that provide climbing structures and space for energetic play. Their combination of intelligence and physical ability ensures they remain active and engaged throughout their lives.

13. American Shorthair

Two American Shorthair in apartment
Karin Kim/Unsplash

American Shorthairs may seem laid-back, but they possess surprising agility. They enjoy climbing and are known for their hunting prowess. Their strong, muscular bodies allow them to perform athletic feats with ease, making them versatile and agile companions. American Shorthairs are curious and thrive in environments with interactive toys and climbing opportunities. Their balance of playfulness and physical ability makes them well-rounded athletes in the feline world.

14. Balinese

Balinese
aleishaknight/123rf

Balinese cats are elegant and agile, with a talent for acrobatics. They enjoy leaping and climbing, and their playful personality drives them to stay active. Their graceful movements and athletic ability make them natural performers. Balinese cats are also intelligent and curious, enjoying games that challenge their agility. Their combination of beauty and athleticism makes them captivating companions who thrive on physical and mental stimulation.

14 Cats That Have the Coordination of a Potato

british shorthair cat
Jakub/Pixabay

Not all cats are nimble ninjas—some are more like adorable, bumbling potatoes. Whether it’s their body shape, temperament, or just a general lack of coordination, these breeds are known for their charming clumsiness. Here are 14 cat breeds that might not win any athletic competitions but will surely win your heart.

1. Persian

Persian cat lying on floor
omid armin/Unsplash

With their long, luxurious coats and flat faces, Persians are more prone to lounging than leaping. Their stocky build and calm temperament make them less agile and more likely to stumble during playful pursuits. Persians prefer relaxed activities and often exhibit a charming clumsiness that only adds to their appeal. While they enjoy occasional bursts of energy, their coordination often lags behind, leading to hilarious and heartwarming blunders. Their easygoing nature makes them the perfect choice for those who prefer a cuddly, low-energy companion.

2. British Shorthair

British Shorthair
Pixabay/Pexels

British Shorthairs are known for their round bodies and laid-back personalities. While they enjoy a bit of play, their heavy frames make them less nimble. They may attempt jumps but often misjudge the distance, resulting in adorable blunders. Their calm demeanor and potato-like coordination make them lovable companions. British Shorthairs tend to move at a leisurely pace, and their sturdy build can make simple maneuvers look like a comedic performance. Despite their clumsiness, their affectionate nature makes them a cherished member of any household.

3. Exotic Shorthair

exotic shorthair
sinason/pixabay

A short-haired cousin of the Persian, Exotic Shorthairs share similar clumsy tendencies. Their flat faces and compact bodies contribute to their less-than-graceful movements. While playful, they often trip over their own feet and are more likely to roll off furniture than land gracefully. Their endearing awkwardness adds to their charm, making every interaction an amusing experience. Exotic Shorthairs enjoy simple games but are prone to sudden mishaps that will keep you entertained. Their loveable and relaxed personality makes up for their lack of athleticism.

4. Scottish Fold

scottish fold cat
Foden Nguyen/Pixabay

Scottish Folds, with their rounded faces and folded ears, are as clumsy as they are cute. Their stocky build and calm nature mean they often misstep or stumble. While they enjoy playtime, their coordination can resemble that of a rolling potato, especially during high-energy antics. Their curious yet cautious personality means they approach physical activities with a certain level of hesitation, which often leads to comical misadventures. Scottish Folds are affectionate and thrive on human companionship, even if their physical grace is lacking.

5. Munchkin

Tranmautritam/Pexels 

With their short legs and long bodies, Munchkins are naturally less coordinated. While energetic and playful, their unique physique makes climbing and jumping a challenge. Their clumsy movements are endearing, and they often find themselves tumbling during playful escapades. Their low-to-the-ground stature means they can’t leap to great heights, but they make up for it with enthusiasm. Munchkins are inquisitive and friendly, and their awkward antics add a delightful quirkiness to their personality, making them irresistible to cat lovers.

6. Ragdoll

Ragdoll
Alexander Kagan/Unsplash

True to their name, Ragdolls tend to go limp when held and often display a laid-back, floppy nature. While affectionate and sweet, they aren’t the most agile cats. Their relaxed temperament and loose muscles mean they are more likely to tumble during playtime or misjudge jumps. This breed’s gentle disposition means they prefer cuddles to athletic feats, and their leisurely movements can lead to amusing blunders. Despite their clumsiness, Ragdolls are known for their affectionate loyalty and thrive in calm, loving environments.

7. Himalayan

Himalayan cat
ArWeltAtty Attila/Pexels

A cousin of the Persian, Himalayans share the same luxurious coat and stocky build. They tend to be more focused on lounging than athletic pursuits. Their coordination is often lacking, and their calm disposition means they are more likely to roll off a perch than gracefully descend. Himalayans enjoy a serene, quiet lifestyle and are prone to amusing missteps during play. Their fluffy coats and placid personality make them perfect for those seeking a cuddly, easy-going feline who brings joy through their gentle and uncoordinated antics.

8. Birman

Birman
Omar Ramadan/Unsplash

Birmans are gentle and affectionate but not known for agility. Their relaxed nature means they often move slowly and cautiously. They are prone to clumsy missteps and prefer snuggling over chasing toys, making them lovable but uncoordinated companions. Birmans love human companionship and are known for their sweet, laid-back temperament. Their playful nature is present but subdued, and their occasional tumbles add to their charm. With their striking blue eyes and affectionate personality, Birmans make excellent companions for those seeking a calm and cuddly pet.

9. Selkirk Rex

Selkirk Rex
Adrian/Pixabay

With their curly coats and sturdy frames, Selkirk Rex cats are more about cuddles than coordination. They are gentle and laid-back, often moving at a leisurely pace. Their calm demeanor means they are more likely to topple during play, adding to their potato-like charm. Selkirk Rex cats enjoy affectionate interactions and are rarely in a rush, contributing to their endearing awkwardness. Their plush coats and easy-going nature make them ideal companions for those who appreciate a relaxed, low-energy pet who offers both warmth and humor.

10. Chartreux

Fluffy British shorthair gray coat.
GAIMARD/ pixabay

Chartreux cats are known for their plush blue-grey coats and serene personalities. While they enjoy interactive play, they lack the speed and agility of more athletic breeds. Their slow, deliberate movements make them prone to clumsy tumbles, which only enhances their sweet, potato-esque appeal. Chartreux cats have a quiet, reserved nature, preferring gentle play over high-energy antics. Their calm demeanor makes them perfect for peaceful households, where their affectionate and laid-back personality can shine despite their occasional physical fumbles.

11. Chinchilla Persian

Chinchilla Persian
豪 刘/Pexels

Chinchilla Persians, a sub-breed of the Persian, share the same adorable clumsiness. Their fluffy coats and stocky frames limit their agility. While they love gentle play, their coordination often falls short, resulting in humorous and heartwarming missteps. Their luxurious appearance contrasts with their bumbling antics, making them both elegant and amusing. Chinchilla Persians enjoy a calm environment where they can lounge comfortably, and their affectionate nature combined with their playful awkwardness makes them delightful companions.

12. American Shorthair

American Shorthair
Lightfieldstudios/123rf

Despite their strong build, American Shorthairs are more relaxed than agile. They prefer lounging to leaping and can be quite clumsy during high-energy play. Their easy-going nature makes them charmingly uncoordinated, adding to their lovable potato persona. American Shorthairs enjoy a balanced lifestyle of gentle play and relaxation. While not the most graceful, their affectionate and adaptable nature makes them ideal for families seeking a low-maintenance, loving pet who brings joy through their sweet and sometimes bumbling antics.

13. LaPerm

Laperm cat
catbreeds/Reddit

LaPerms are known for their curly coats and quirky personalities. While curious and playful, they lack the smooth agility of other breeds. Their clumsy antics are part of their charm, and their unpredictable movements often lead to adorable tumbles and stumbles. LaPerms enjoy interactive play but often approach it with a unique and humorous clumsiness. Their affectionate and friendly demeanor, combined with their playful yet awkward nature, makes them a delightful addition to any home seeking a loving and entertaining feline.

14. Ragamuffin

RagaMuffin cat
crowabunga/Reddit

Ragamuffins, like their Ragdoll cousins, are big, fluffy, and floppy. They are affectionate and easy-going but not particularly agile. Their heavy bodies and relaxed muscles often result in clumsy movements, and they are known for flopping over without warning. While they enjoy gentle play, their coordination is less refined, leading to adorable missteps. Ragamuffins thrive in calm environments and are happiest when cuddling with their favorite humans. Their soft, plush coats and sweet nature make them perfect for those seeking a loving, laid-back feline.

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