7 Cat Breeds That Love Playing Fetch, According to Vets

Playing fetch is a fun way to bond with your dog, but what about if you have another type of pet? If so, you may be wondering, "Do cats play fetch?" Some do! In fact, depending on the breed, your feline may enjoy fetch, too. So if you are thinking about getting a kitten or if you already have a high-energy cat and are curious if they will play this game or not, see if they made our list of 7 cat breeds that actually love playing fetch, according to vets.

One study published in 2024 surveyed nearly 82,000 pet owners and discovered that nearly 41 percent of cat owners said their kitties enjoy playing fetch. While you can toss a ball, stick or toy in front of any cat to see if they take the bait, some playful cat breeds are better-known for fetching than others. That doesn't mean a cat in any of these breed categories will be big on fetching though-it's just a more common trait in certain breeds of cats that act like dogs.

There are so many reasons to focus on one cat breed over another when you're looking to bring an animal home, but having a cat who likes to fetch is a nice perk. So, which cats like to play fetch? If you want one that's big on interactive play, start your search here. These are the best cat breeds for playing fetch, giving you plenty of opportunities to play with your pet.

Related: 7 Friendly Cat Breeds For People Who Want a Sweet Companion

7 Cat Breeds That Fetch

It may sound hard to believe, but some cat breeds genuinely love to play fetch-a delightful, dog-like behavior confirmed by veterinary experts. Discover the specific playful traits and surprising energy levels of these seven cat breeds and see if one is right for your home.

Bengal

When it comes to cats that play fetch, the Bengal is one. This playful cat breed has a unique wildcat look thanks to its lineage as a hybrid of the Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic cat. Beside their fun appearance, their personality is attention-grabbing, too. "Bengals are incredibly active and curious, and sometimes they can be more 'dog-like' than most cats," says Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance.

Like dogs, this cat breed is a big fetcher and even enjoys swimming. "They thrive on interaction and mental stimulation, so games like fetch come very naturally to them," Vasudevan says. In fact, she recommends that Bengal owners make fetching a habit. "A bored Bengal will absolutely make their own fun, so structured play is key," she says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Inquisitive, spirited, loving
• Weight: 6-15 pounds
• Lifespan: 12–20 years

Manx

Manx cats are sometimes (hilariously) compared to bowling balls thanks to their rounder shape. While this feline is known for being tailless, some Max have short-tails, which gives them a dog-like appearance. However, that's not the only thing that is dog-like about these cats. They also like similar games.

"Many Manx cats enjoy interactive games like fetch, especially if they start playing young," Vasudevan says. She describes this active cat breed as playful, intelligent and easygoing, too. "They tend to have an adaptable temperament that fits well into family life and are known for being very loyal and often picking a favorite person in the household," Vasudevan says. If you want that to be you, maybe start playing regular games of fetch with your furry companion.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Even-tempered, affectionate, friendly
• Weight: Unspecified
• Lifespan: 16+ years

Turkish Van

Consider the Turkish Van a super athlete of the feline world. This cat breed that plays fetch is known for high energy, intelligence and surprising dog-like behavior. Not only do these cats love interactive games, but they're also famous for enjoying water-giving you plenty of active, engaging fun at home. "The Turkish Van is generally thought of as an active, confident and extremely playful cat, which is why they are most commonly associated with games of fetch," says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel.

Since this breed is smart and inquisitive, Warner notes they prefer active games over quiet, passive ones. "Instead of swatting at a toy, bringing it back and then forgetting about it, Turkish Vans tend to enjoy the challenge of chasing, carrying and bringing something back to their owner, especially if it becomes a part of a routine," she says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Active, loyal
• Weight: 10- 25 pounds
• Lifespan: 13-17+ years

Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is fun-loving, personable and another cat breed that plays fetch. Warner describes them as "full of energy" and fast, noting that they love running around the house.

These active felines usually fall into the category of "cat-dog," as they have a puppy-like personality as well. Seeing how the Cornish Rex is smart, as a result, you can teach your fetcher to do a range of tricks as well. But the Cornish Rex is more than a fetching cat: This breed loves people and all the attention they can share. Because of this, you can expect your Cornish Rex to be in the middle of family life as a result.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Social, intelligent, active
• Weight: Unspecified
• Lifespan: 9-13+ years

Related: 8 Grey Cat Breeds That Will Capture Your Heart with Their Sweet, Calm Personalities, Say Vets

Maine Coon

Maine Coons are often compared to dogs, purely because of their large size. (Many Maine Coons rival the size of small canines.) But Maine Coons also enjoy a solid game of fetch, along with overall play. In fact, you can teach your Maine Coon to fetch toys and you can even train this breed to walk on a leash.

But while this breed is admittedly huge (for a cat), Warner refers to them as "gentle giants," noting that your Maine Coon will happily cozy up to you when playtime is over. Overall, besides being one of the best cat breeds for playing fetch, they are highly affectionate, yet easygoing, making them an excellent family companion. Maine Coons are curious and friendly, too. As a result, they'll happily follow family members around.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Gentle, friendly, affectionate
• Weight: 12-22 pounds
• Lifespan: 12.5+ years

Siamese

Research lists the Siamese as one of the more common cat breeds that enjoy fetching. The facts add up as this feline is playful and very interactive, making them a natural at this game, according to Kate Elden, DVM, chief medical officer at Dutch.

But Siamese are so much more than great fetchers. "This interactive cat breed tends to be very vocal and social," Dutch says. "They're also a little nosy, and will happily follow you around to see what you're getting into. They are likely to talk to you in the process as well."

Breed Stats

• Personality: Playful, social
• Weight: 5-12 pounds
• Lifespan: 10-20 years

Japanese Bobtail

The Japanese Bobtail just looks like a good time, with its signature pom-pom tail. Though this breed is known for its charm and smarts, it's also highly active. Hence, why the Japanese Bobtail loves playing fetch.

In fact, some Japanese Bobtails have such an innate habit of fetching that they'll do it instinctively. Japanese Bobtails are big jumpers and love to splash their paws around in the water as well, giving you both plenty of ways to play together. All in all, Japanese Bobtails are a curious breed, so expect yours to investigate every area of your home and want to play all the time if you get one.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Charming, active
• Weight: 8-12 pounds
• Lifespan: 9-13+ years

How to Train a Cat to Fetch

Can you teach a cat to fetch? Yes, cats can learn to fetch-and many actually love it. The key is tapping into your cat's natural hunting instincts and turning the game into a rewarding routine.

Start by choosing a toy your cat is already obsessed with, like a small ball or soft mouse. Toss it a short distance and watch how your cat reacts. If they chase it, you're halfway there. When they pick it up or interact with it, reward them right away with a treat or praise so they begin to associate the behavior with something positive.

Next, encourage your cat to bring the toy back. Some cats will do this instinctively, but if yours doesn't, try calling them back to you or offering a treat as an incentive. Consistency matters-repeat the process in short, fun sessions so your cat doesn't lose interest.

As your cat improves, you can gradually increase the distance of the throw and reduce how often you give treats, replacing them with verbal praise or playtime. Keep sessions upbeat and stop before your cat gets bored. While not every cat will become a fetch pro, with patience and the right motivation, many playful, intelligent cats can learn this surprisingly dog-like trick.

Sources:

• Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance
• Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel
• Kate Elden, DVM, chief medical officer at Dutch
• Bengal. The International Cat Association
• Cornish Rex. The International Cat Association
• Turkish Van. The International Cat Association
• Manx. The International Cat Association
• Maine Coon. The International Cat Association
• Siamese. The International Cat Association
• Japanese Bobtail. The International Cat Association

Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 3:10 AM.