In city apartments and cozy houses alike, small cat breeds can be the perfect companions when space is limited and personalities matter. Grey coats come in many tones and textures, so a compact cat can look elegant whether it’s a soft blue, smoky silver, or charcoal shade.
There are 11 small grey cat breeds, ranging from American Curl to Sphynx. For each breed, you’ll find the Scientific name,Weight (kg),Coat (grey variants) laid out for quick comparison — details you’ll find below.
How can I tell if a grey cat is a true small breed or just a color variation?
Look at body proportions, head shape, ear set and coat texture in addition to color; true breeds tend to have consistent physical traits and temperament, while color variants appear across many mixed cats. Checking pedigree papers or consulting a breed club or vet can confirm breed status.
Which small grey breeds are easiest to keep in an apartment?
Choose by temperament and maintenance: calm, low-activity breeds that tolerate indoor life (for example, Russian Blue or Chartreux) are good fits, while hairless types like the Sphynx need more bathing. Prioritize compatibility with your schedule, grooming willingness, and allergy considerations.
Small Grey Cat Breeds
| Breed | Scientific name | Weight (kg) | Coat (grey variants) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russian Blue | Felis catus | 3.5-4.5 | Solid, shimmering blue-grey with silver-tipped guard hairs. |
| Korat | Felis catus | 2.7-4.5 | Solid, silver-tipped blue that shimmers. The only accepted color for the breed. |
| Cornish Rex | Felis catus | 2.5-4.5 | Solid blue, blue-cream, and blue tabby patterns are common on its soft, wavy coat. |
| Devon Rex | Felis catus | 2.5-4 | Comes in solid blue, blue tabby, and other patterns on its short, suede-like coat. |
| Munchkin | Felis catus | 2.2-4 | All colors are accepted, including solid blue, blue tabby, and blue smoke. |
| American Curl | Felis catus | 2.3-4.5 | All colors are accepted, including solid blue and blue patterns in shorthair/longhair varieties. |
| LaPerm | Felis catus | 2.5-4.5 | Found in a wide array of colors, including solid blue, on its unique curly coat. |
| Oriental Shorthair | Felis catus | 2.5-4.5 | Solid blue is a recognized color among over 300 color and pattern combinations. |
| Sphynx | Felis catus | 3.5-4.5 | Skin pigment can be solid blue, creating a grey appearance on its hairless body. |
| Bambino | Felis catus | 2.2-4 | Hairless, with skin pigmentation available in all colors, including solid blue. |
| Peterbald | Felis catus | 3-4.5 | All colors, including blue, are found on their hairless or uniquely coated skin. |
Images and Descriptions
Russian Blue
A gentle, quiet, and reserved breed known for its striking green eyes and elegant, fine-boned build. They are loyal to their families but can be shy with strangers. Their dense double coat requires minimal grooming.
Korat
Originating from Thailand, the Korat is a rare breed considered a symbol of good luck. They are intelligent, playful, and form strong bonds with their owners. Their compact, muscular body is surprisingly heavy for its size.
Cornish Rex
Known for its unique curly coat, slender body, and large ears, the Cornish Rex is an active, kitten-like cat. This affectionate and social breed loves to be part of family activities and has a low-shedding coat.
Devon Rex
The “pixie of the cat world,” the Devon Rex has a mischievous, playful, and people-oriented personality. Its elfin face, large eyes, and soft, wavy coat are defining features. They are social and thrive on attention.
Munchkin
Famous for its naturally short legs, the Munchkin is a small, confident, and outgoing cat. Despite their low stature, they are surprisingly agile and playful. Their sweet-natured personality makes them excellent family companions.
American Curl
Distinguished by its uniquely curled-back ears, the American Curl is an elegant, people-loving cat with a youthful, playful temperament that lasts into adulthood. They adapt well to new environments and are known for their gentle nature.
LaPerm
This breed is named for its distinctive coat of soft waves, curls, and ringlets. LaPerms are affectionate, inquisitive, and enjoy being close to their people. They are known for their gentle and patient temperament.
Oriental Shorthair
A svelte and elegant cat with large ears and a wedge-shaped head, related to the Siamese. The Oriental Shorthair is intelligent, curious, and vocal. They crave attention and are deeply attached to their families.
Sphynx
The famous hairless cat, the Sphynx is not truly bald but covered in a fine downy fuzz. They are extroverted, mischievous, and incredibly affectionate, seeking warmth and attention from their owners. Requires regular bathing.
Bambino
A mix between the Sphynx and Munchkin, the Bambino is a small, hairless breed with short legs. They are playful, friendly, and affectionate, combining the loving nature of the Sphynx with the curious spirit of the Munchkin.
Peterbald
An elegant Russian breed with a graceful, slender build, the Peterbald can be hairless or have a variety of unique coat types. They are known for being sweet-tempered, affectionate, and peacefully social with people and other pets.
