The Top 10 Smartest Cat Breeds

When it comes to intelligence, every cat is unique. Some kitties may love and excel at puzzle games, while others prefer quiet window watching.

While all kitties have their own personalities and quirks, certain breeds are known for being particularly clever. These brainy breeds thrive on (and need!) mental stimulation and love engaging with their pet parents.

If you’re looking for a feline friend to keep you on your toes, the kitties below have earned a reputation for being some of the smartest cat breeds around.

1. Abyssinian

Known for their playful and curious nature, Abyssinians are energetic cats that love to climb and explore. Along with being smart cats, they’re highly social and bond closely with their pet parents.

Abyssinians enjoy brain games like interactive toys and puzzles, and they’ll gladly tag along for your daily stroll around the neighborhood if you leash train them.

2. Siamese

Siamese cats are famous for their talkative and affectionate personalities. Lovingly known as Velcro cats, they thrive on interacting with their humans.

Siamese are quick to learn tricks and should have plenty of feline-friendly enrichment to keep them occupied, such as window perches and interactive toys. If they’re bored, they’ll (loudly) let you know!

3. Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold breed is known for their signature folded ears and laid-back demeanor. While they may be calm, these kitties are very smart and enjoy playing with puzzles and chasing a wand toy. They may not follow you everywhere you go, but they form strong bonds with their families.

4. Persian

With their luxurious coats and sweet expressions, Persians are an observant and relaxed cat breed. Though they may not be as energetic as some, Persians are quite intelligent and enjoy peacefully stimulating activities, like observing from a tall cat tree.

5. Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is an energetic, playful cat with a distinctive wavy coat. They are known for their agility and curiosity, loving to jump and explore, and thriving on interactive play with their people. Their high intelligence means this smart cat breed needs plenty of mental stimulation and can easily learn to perform tricks or play fetch.

6. Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras are highly intelligent and athletic with a keen sense of independence. They might not be your typical cuddly lap cat, but they’re very affectionate and will form strong bonds with humans and other pets. These kitties also love water and are known for being excellent problem-solvers. 

7. Burmese

Burmese cats are loving and friendly cats, often following their people wherever they go. As one of the smartest cat breeds, Burmese enjoy learning through clicker training. They’re best kept indoors (or in a catio or on a harness and leash) due to their curious nature.

8. Bengal

Bengals are a highly sought-after breed because of their striking leopard-like spots, but they’re equally known for their wits. As a highly energetic breed, they love to climb, jump, and play with toys.

Bengal cats thrive on physical and mental stimulation and are quick learners, making them a great breed for pet parents wanting an active and social pal.

9. Korat

With a striking blue-silver coat and an adorable heart-shaped face, the Korat is a thoughtful, smart cat breed. They’re known for their problem-solving skills and people-oriented personalities, loving both interactive play sessions and a good lap nap.

Korats bond deeply with their families and can be sensitive to changes in their routines, so be mindful when introducing new things.

10. Savannah

Similar to the Bengal, the Savannah cat is an exotic breed known for being highly energetic, adventurous, and intelligent. They adapt quickly to learning new cues, how to walk on a leash, and even play fetch with their pet parents.

Given their unique genetics—plus their curious and brainy nature—Savannah cats need plenty of space and stimulation to avoid unwanted destructive behaviors, such as furniture scratching and knocking things over.