Cats have captured hearts (and screen time) for decades from iconic movie characters to viral commercial sensations. But not every feline is a natural performer. At The Animal Talent Agency, we’ve worked with hundreds of cats, and some breeds consistently shine on set thanks to their temperament, adaptability, and “camera-ready” looks.
Here’s a guide to the top cat breeds that are ideal for film, television and advertising, plus tips for working with them on set.
1. Burmese – The Affectionate All-Rounder
Burmese cats are known for their people-oriented personalities. They tend to bond strongly with handlers and are generally comfortable in new environments which is a crucial attribute for busy sets.
Why they work well:
- Calm and friendly
- Respond well to direction
- Great with handling and cuddly scenes
Perfect for: Character roles, close-up reactions, interactive ads.
2. Ragdoll – The Chill Camera Star
True to their name, Ragdolls go limp in your arms. They’re a blessing when you need relaxed, natural close-ups.
Why they work well:
- Exceptionally calm and tolerant
- Comfortable in handlers’ arms
- Gentle with people and other animals
Perfect for: Emotional scenes, lifestyle ads, cuddly product spots.
3. Maine Coon – The Gentle Giant
Maine Coons are big, expressive and full of personality. They often act like dogs following cues, engaging with actors and enjoying attention.
Why they work well:
- Curious and social
- Trainable for simple cues
- Visually striking on camera
Perfect for: TV roles that need expressive behavior, wide shots, interaction with actors.
4. Bengal – The Athletic Showstopper
For roles requiring movement or energy, like jumping, playing, or exploring, the Bengal is a natural choice. Their unique coat also pops visually on screen.
Why they work well:
- High energy and confident
- Intelligent and trainable
- Striking looks
Perfect for: Action shots, pet products, dynamic commercials.
5. British Shorthair – The Calm Character Cat
With their round faces and plush coats, British Shorthairs are instantly endearing. They’re not as high-energy as Bengals but thrive in calm, structured environments. They’re ideal for staged shots.
Why they work well:
- Easygoing temperament
- Stay composed under lights and cameras
- Classic, photogenic look
Perfect for: Voice-over driven pieces, lifestyle and home ads.
6. Siamese – The Vocal Performer
Siamese cats are social, talkative, and not afraid to “act.” Their striking contrast points and expressive eyes make them memorable screen presences.
Why they work well:
- Highly expressive
- Comfortable with people
- Great for personality-driven roles
Perfect for: Dialogue-style ads, comedic scenes, character roles.
What Makes a Cat Great on Set?
While breed is a helpful guide, individual temperament matters most. Here’s what we look for when casting:
✔ Calm Under Lights & Noise
Film sets are busy with flashes, equipment and crew. Cats that stay relaxed are easier to work with and get better shots.
✔ Comfortable With Handling
Cats in commercials often interact with people, props, or other animals. Those who aren’t afraid of gentle handling get more usable footage.
✔ Trainability & Focus
Many cats can learn simple cues such as “come here, look there, sit” which makes shooting faster and more predictable.
✔ Well-Socialised
A cat that loves people and isn’t overwhelmed by strangers will shine in multi-actor settings.
On-Set Tips for Working With Cats
Here are pro tips we use at The Animal Talent Agency to help cats perform their best:
🔹 Positive Reinforcement Only – Treats and praise build trust faster than repetition.
🔹 Short Takes Wins – Cats have limited patience; keep scenes short and fun.
🔹 Comfort First – A familiar blanket or toy goes a long way.
🔹 Quiet Corners – Calm spaces between takes help reduce stress.
Final Thoughts
Cats bring charm, spontaneity and emotional depth to screen projects, but not all cats are created equal. Selecting the right breed and the right individual can make the difference between a good take and a great one.
At The Animal Talent Agency, we specialise in matching professional animal talent with the right roles, including cats that steal the show.
🎬 Ready to cast your feline star?
Contact us today to discuss your project and find the perfect cat for TV, film or advertising.
