Top 10 Friendliest Cat Breeds – For Families & First-Time Owners

Friendliest Cat Breeds: 10 Affectionate Cats for Families & First-Time Owners

Cats are often called independent, but many breeds are true cuddle bugs who love people, kids and even cat-friendly dogs. If you’re a first-time cat parent or planning to adopt your first cat, starting with a naturally friendly breed can make life much easier in a busy family home.

Quick answer: The friendliest cat breeds include the Ragdoll, Maine Coon, Siamese, Burmese, Birman, Sphynx, Abyssinian, Scottish Fold, Persian and Exotic Shorthair. These breeds are known for their affectionate, people-oriented personalities when they’re well socialised and cared for.

In this guide, you’ll get a quick overview of each friendly breed plus practical details on grooming, energy levels and how they do with children, dogs and first-time owners, so you can find the purr-fect snuggle buddy for your home.

Vistazo rápido: 10 razas de gatos más amigables

Below is a quick comparison of the 10 friendliest cat breeds, including their typical personality, grooming needs and energy level.

(Tip: use this to shortlist 2–3 breeds that fit your lifestyle, then read their detailed profiles below.)

(Arriba hemos resumido la personalidad, el aseo y las necesidades energéticas de cada raza. Sigue leyendo para una presentación más personal de cada simpático felino).

What Makes a Cat Breed “Friendly”?

Every cat is an individual, but some breeds are more likely to be outgoing, relaxed and people-oriented than others. That’s not magic — it comes down to a mix of genetics, early experiences and the kind of home they live in.

A few key factors that influence how “friendly” a cat feels:

• Breed tendencies: Over generations, some breeds have been selectively bred for calm, sociable temperaments and low fear of humans.
• Early socialisation: Kittens who are gently handled, played with and exposed to different people and environments in their first 8–12 weeks usually grow into more confident, affectionate adults.
• Daily environment: Even the friendliest breed needs a safe, predictable home with playtime, ocultar spots, scratching posts and respectful handling to feel secure.
• Individual personality: Just like people, cats have their own quirks. A “friendly” breed may still produce a shy cat, while a mixed-breed shelter kitty can turn out to be an absolute cuddle champion.

The 10 breeds below are all known for being especially good with people, kids and often other pets when they’re raised in a loving, low-stress home.

The 10 Friendliest Cat Breeds

Now let’s meet 10 of the friendliest cat breeds and see what it’s really like to live with each one.

Friendly vs. affectionate: in this guide we focus on breeds that are relaxed, people-oriented and usually good with families, kids and other pets. If you’re specifically looking for velcro-style lap cats that live to snuggle, you may also enjoy our guide to the Las razas de gatos más cariñosas – it zooms in on the ultimate cuddle bugs.

1. Ragdoll – Ultra-Affectionate “Floppy” Lap Cat

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ ultra-affectionate, loves people
• Good with kids? Yes, usually great with gentle children and seniors
• Good with dogs? Often, if the dog is calm and introductions are slow
• Grooming needs: Semi-long coat; brush 1–2 times per week
• Nivel de energía: Low–moderate – enjoys play, but prefers snuggles
• Ideal para: Families, first-time owners, anyone wanting a relaxed lap cat

Ragdolls are often the first breed mentioned when people ask about friendly cats – and for good reason. These big, blue-eyed beauties got their name from the way they flop happily into your arms when held, just like a rag doll. Ragdolls have a gentle, patient nature and love being with their humans.

In fact, they’re such laid-back lap cats that they’ll follow you around the house and even greet you at the door after work.

No se sorprenda si su Ragdoll aprende a jugar a la búsqueda o si acude cuando se le llama: son bastante inteligentes y "cachorros" en su devoción. Con un Ragdoll, nunca te sentirás solo; su lugar favorito es justo a tu lado, ronroneando contento.

Is a Ragdoll Right for You?

If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate companion that’s great with children, seniors, and even other pets, a Ragdoll could be your perfect match. We’ve found that Ragdolls adapt well to family life – they tolerate gentle play from kids and tend to get along with cat-friendly dogs due to their easygoing temperament.

Como padre primerizo de un gato, apreciará que los Ragdoll sean no excesivamente exigenteSon juguetones pero no hiperactivos, y prefieren los mimos y las siestas acogedoras a las travesuras salvajes. Hay que tener en cuenta que su precioso pelaje semilargo debe cepillarse una o dos veces por semana para que no se enrede.

If you can handle a bit of grooming and lots of snuggling, a Ragdoll will reward you with endless love. (And yes, you can find Ragdolls through rescues or shelters sometimes – many a lucky adopter has met their floppy, friendly soul mate that way!)

Más información sobre su Ragdoll

2. Maine Coon – Gentle Giant for Families

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ gentle, people-loving “giant”
• Good with kids? Yes, usually patient and playful
• Good with dogs? Often, especially with friendly, respectful dogs
• Grooming needs: Long, dense coat; brush weekly
• Nivel de energía: Moderate – playful but easygoing
• Ideal para: Families, homes with space, owners who enjoy interactive play

Meet the Maine Coon, the majestic “gentle giant” of the cat world. Don’t let their impressive size and fluff intimidate you – Maine Coons are famously affectionate with just about everyone. This breed is known for being friendly with other cats, dogs, and people of all ages.

A Maine Coon often has a big tufted paw in every family activity: they’ll chirp and trill to communicate with you and might even help you by chasing off any errant insect or inspecting the water faucet (many Maine Coons actually like water!). Despite their lumberjack look, these cats have hearts of gold.

They are sociable and loyal pets who often bond with the whole family. It’s not unusual to find a Maine Coon curling up next to you on the couch or gently head-butting you for attention.

También son bastante inteligentes: algunos propietarios les enseñan trucos o a pasear con correa, ya que los Maine Coon pueden ser tan adiestrables y sociables como los perros.

Is a Maine Coon Right for You?

A Maine Coon could be the one if you want a pet that’s ideal para niños y otras mascotas, and you have a bit of space for a larger cat. Their patient, friendly nature means they typically won’t mind curious toddlers or canine buddies – they often even enjoy the company, earning that family pet extraordinaire reputation.

First-time cat owners often do well with Maine Coons because these cats are easygoing and hardy. Just be prepared: they are big cats (males can be 15–20 pounds), so you’ll need a sturdy litter box, a big enough lap, and time for regular grooming (their dense semi-long coat benefits from weekly brushing).

Maine Coons have a moderate energy level – they appreciate playtime (think feather wands, puzzle toys, or even a game of fetch) but are equally happy chilling near you.

Si sueña con un gato amistoso y de modales suaves que pueda seguir el ritmo de la vida familiar y saludar a cada visitante con un ronroneo, el Maine Coon podría ser su alma gemela ideal para acurrucarse.

Más información sobre su Mapache de Maine

3. Siamese – Talkative People-Cat

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ very people-focused and loyal
• Good with kids? Yes, in active, respectful households
• Good with dogs? Often, with social dogs and proper introductions
• Grooming needs: Short coat; minimal brushing
• Nivel de energía: High – very active and vocal
• Ideal para: People home often, families who want an interactive, talkative cat

If you want a cat that will “chat” with you and follow you from room to room, the Siamese might steal your heart. Siamese cats are intensely loyal and social, often forming a deep bond with their favorite person.

Esta raza se nutre de la interacción: son famosos por su voz, conocida por sus maullidos graves pero fuertes (algunos los llaman "meezers" por sus sonidos). Un siamés le dirá exactamente cómo se siente y le pedirá mucha atención.

They’re sleek, athletic cats with striking blue eyes, and they love to play. Don’t be surprised to find your Siamese jumping onto your lap, your desk, or your shoulders just to be close to you. They are one of the most people-oriented breeds and can be quite affectionate, often enjoying snuggles when they’re not busy exploring.

Sin embargo, al igual que muchas razas amistosas, su afecto suele centrarse en su familia: los gatos siameses pueden ser un poco recelosos con los extraños al principio, aunque se calientan una vez que se ganan la confianza.

Is a Siamese Right for You?

Un siamés podría ser perfecto si desea un compañero constante y no les importa tener una mascota habladora. Solemos recomendar a los siameses para hogares en los que hay alguien presente durante gran parte del día: les va mejor cuando tienen compañía, ya sea humana o de otra mascota.

In fact, Siamese cats are so social that they often appreciate having a feline friend; a pair of Siamese can keep each other entertained and comforted when you’re out. They are great in active families and with gentle kids – Siamese will readily play and entertain, and they’re known to be quite tolerant if properly socialized.

Just remember that this breed hates to be ignored; a bored or lonely Siamese might get into mischief or become noisy. As a first-time owner, you’ll find Siamese are trainable and engaging – some even learn tricks or games easily – but you should be prepared for their high energy and need for stimulation.

Grooming is a breeze (their coats are short and low-maintenance), so you can focus more on interactive play and cuddle time. If you want a cat that’s like an outgoing best friend – one that might literally grab your face for a kiss – the Siamese is calling your name.

Más información sobre su Siamés

4. Abyssinian – Curious, People-Oriented Shadow

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★☆ very social, but not a lap potato
• Good with kids? Yes, in active homes that enjoy playtime
• Good with dogs? Often, especially with playful, friendly dogs
• Grooming needs: Short coat; very low maintenance
• Nivel de energía: High – athletic, busy and playful
• Ideal para: Active households, people who want an interactive, trainable cat

Ever wish for a feline friend who’s involved in everything you do? Meet the Abyssinian (or “Aby” for short). This breed is the definition of people-oriented and curious. Abys have an almost puppy-like eagerness to interact – they’ll climb onto your shoulder to watch what you’re doing, chase your pen while you write, and generally act as your adorable little shadow.

They’re not known as lap cats (life’s too exciting to stay still!), but they show affection by being right there with you, always interested and “helping.” With a lean, muscular build and a ticked coat that gives them a wildcat look, Abyssinians are also one of the most playful and active breeds.

They love to climb and survey their domain from a high perch. If you don’t supply toys or games, an Aby will invent their own (sometimes by sneaking open a cabinet or exploring off-limits nooks!). But don’t mistake their high energy for aloofness – Abys are very loving in their own energetic way, often purring loudly and giving head bumps when you engage with them.

Is an Abyssinian Right for You?

Choose an Abyssinian if you crave an interactive, entertaining buddy and you’re ready for a cat that keeps you on your toes.

We’ve seen Abyssinians thrive in active households – they adore kids who will play with them and they usually get along with cat-friendly dogs or other cats, especially those that can match their play drive. Because they are so intelligent and busy, Abys are a good choice if you want a cat you can train or teach tricks to (they’re often happy to learn fetch or puzzle toys).

Sin embargo, si prefiere un gato tumbado en el sofá, el Abisinio puede ser demasiado para usted, ya que se aburrirá sin una estimulación amplia. Los dueños de gatos primerizos pueden disfrutar de un Aby, siempre que estén preparados para una mascota enérgica y tengan su casa a prueba de gatos (piense en ello como en un hogar a prueba de niños pequeños: estos gatos lo investigarán todo).

The good news is their short coat requires minimal grooming, and their health is generally robust with proper exercise and enrichment. An Aby will “help” you live life to the fullest – their enthusiasm is infectious.

Si su gato ideal es aquel que le recibe en la puerta, se sube a su hombro y convierte cada día en una aventura juguetona, el abisinio podría ser su SnuggleSoul definitivo.

Más información sobre su Abisinio

5. Persian – Calm Long-Haired Lap Cat

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★☆ very affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
• Good with kids? Yes, in calm homes with gentle children
• Good with dogs? Sometimes, with quiet, respectful dogs
• Grooming needs: High – long coat, daily brushing and facial care
• Nivel de energía: Low – relaxed and laid-back
• Ideal para: Quiet households, owners who enjoy daily grooming and cuddle time

The Persian is the classic calm, peluche lap cat. These fluffy felines have been cherished for centuries for their gentle dispositions.

A Persian’s idea of a perfect day is lounging in their favorite spot (often on you or a cozy cushion nearby) and receiving lots of petting. They’re so relaxed that one pet expert jokingly said Persians are sometimes nicknamed “furniture with hair” – they love to sit prettily and observe the household in a laid-back manner.

Persians are typically very affectionate with their family, though they might be a bit reserved or shy with new people until they feel comfortable. Don’t expect a Persian to climb your curtains or zoom around at 3 AM; they have a low-key approach to life. You might get some playful swats at a toy, but they generally prefer a calm, stable environment.

Su dulce temperamento y sus ojos redondos y expresivos pueden derretir el corazón de cualquiera, y a menudo se comunican con gorjeos suaves y melódicos en lugar de maullidos estridentes.

Is a Persian Right for You?

A Persian could be the perfect snuggle buddy if you’re looking for a tranquil, loving cat to relax with.

Son especialmente adecuados para hogares tranquilos: las personas mayores y las personas o familias que disfrutan de un ambiente tranquilo encuentran en los persas unos compañeros maravillosos. Los persas son tolerantes, pero prosperan en un entorno en el que no se les asuste o persiga constantemente.

If you’re a first-time cat owner, a Persian’s easygoing (albeit sometimes aloof) nature can be comforting – they won’t overwhelm you with high demands. However, you must be ready for grooming duty. That luxurious long coat isn’t low-maintenance: daily gentle brushing will keep their fur from matting and keep your kitty looking and feeling great.

Muchos propietarios de persas convierten el acicalamiento en un momento para estrechar lazos: es probable que su persa disfrute de la atención una vez que se haya acostumbrado a la rutina. Además, mantén limpia su carita plana, ya que sus grandes ojos pueden lagrimear.

In return for your care, you’ll get a devoted lap warmer who looks at you like you’re the center of their world. If you imagine peaceful evenings with a purring fluffball on your lap, a Persian might be your ideal SnuggleSoul.

Más información sobre su Persa

6. Burmese – Social, Dog-Like Cuddler

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ extremely people-oriented and cuddly
• Good with kids? Yes, usually excellent with respectful children
• Good with dogs? Often, especially with friendly, playful dogs
• Grooming needs: Short coat; very low maintenance
• Nivel de energía: High – playful and energetic
• Ideal para: Families, multi-pet homes, people who want an involved companion

The Burmese may just be the social butterfly of the cat world. These cats absolutely adore their people – so much so that it’s often said one Burmese is not enough!

They are known to form strong bonds with their families, following you from room to room as if they’re afraid of missing out on the fun. Burmese cats have a lively, almost personalidad canina: they’re confident, curious, and love to play games (many Burmese will happily fetch toys or play tag).

Yet, they are also champion snugglers, always ready to curl up in your lap or right under the covers with you at night. With their big gold eyes and velvety short coat, Burmese are striking to look at, but it’s their warm-hearted nature that wins everyone over. They’re often so friendly and outgoing that they’ll greet strangers or make themselves at home on a visitor’s lap.

In fact, the Cat Fanciers’ Association notes Burmese have an irresistible appeal – even people who thought they weren’t “cat people” often fall in love with this breed.

Is a Burmese Right for You?

If you want a truly affectionate, family-oriented cat, the Burmese could be your dream come true. We love recommending Burmese to families with children or multi-pet households – these cats typically get along wonderfully with kids, other cats, and even cat-friendly dogs.

They’re sturdy and patient enough for respectful play, and they love the company. As a first-time cat owner, you’ll find Burmese to be interactive and easy to handle – they want to be involved in your life, whether it’s “helping” with chores or sitting on your lap during a movie.

Keep in mind, Burmese are high-energy and intelligent. They thrive with lots of playtime and enrichment; a bored Burmese will come looking for you and might invent games if you don’t provide them.

The good news: they’ll also tire themselves out with play and then blissfully nap on you. Their grooming needs are minimal (just occasional brushing; their coat is short and smooth). The main thing a Burmese asks for is attention and love – they crave it.

Si está listo para tener un compañero parlanchín y juguetón que quiera ser su segunda sombra y su compañero de mimos, un birmano podría ser el SnuggleSoul ideal.

Más información sobre su Birmano

7. Birman – Easy-Going Family Sweetheart

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ sweet, people-oriented and calm
• Good with kids? Yes, usually very gentle and patient
• Good with dogs? Often, with friendly, respectful dogs
• Grooming needs: Medium-long coat; brush 1–2 times per week
• Nivel de energía: Low–moderate – playful but not hyper
• Ideal para: Families, first-time owners, multi-pet homes that want a gentle cat

Birmans are often called the “gentle giants” of affection (even though they’re medium-sized cats). They have a reputation for being easy-going, patient companions who bond closely with their families.

Un Birmano se parece un poco a un gato puntiagudo tipo Siamés cruzado con un Persa más esponjoso - tienen unos preciosos ojos azules y un sedoso pelaje medio-largo con bonitos "guantes" blancos en las patas. A diferencia de algunas razas habladoras, los Birmanos suelen ser tranquilos y se comunican con suaves gorjeos cuando tienen algo que decir.

They are very people-friendly and typically greet visitors with curiosity and kindness. We’ve seen Birmans fit in seamlessly with kids and other pets; they’re not aggressive or skittish by nature.

En cambio, un Birmano suele tomarse la vida con calma. Disfrutan de la atención y el afecto (¿a quién no le gusta una buena sesión de caricias?), pero no son tan exigentes como, por ejemplo, un siamés.

You might find your Birman happily lounging nearby as you work or study, content just to be in the same room. Their temperament is often described as angelic – sweet, loving, and calm.

Is a Birman Right for You?

If you imagine a gentle, friendly cat that’s neither too clingy nor too standoffish, a Birman might be the perfect candidate. For first-time cat owners, Birmans are kind of a “Goldilocks” breed: just the right balance of playful and calm.

They are usually wonderful with children and other pets, making them great for families. A Birman likely won’t mind if your toddler wants to wave a feather toy or if you already have a cat or dog – they tend to be accepting and sociable.

Aprecian su compañía, por lo que, aunque no son excesivamente necesitados, pueden sentirse solos si se les deja solos todo el día (considere la posibilidad de tener una pareja de Birmanos o un compañero amistoso si se ausenta a menudo). El cuidado de un Birmano es moderado: su pelaje es de longitud media, pero su textura es sedosa y no tan propensa a la estera como la de un Persa.

A good brush once or twice a week should suffice, and many Birmans actually enjoy the grooming attention. In return, you get a devoted friend who will likely shadow you from room to room and snuggle up whenever you’re ready to relax.

Si lo que busca es un gato siempre bondadoso y adaptable, un verdadero amor de familia, el Birmano podría ser su SnuggleSoul ideal.

Más información sobre su Birmans

8. Sphynx – Attention-Loving Class Clown

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ incredibly social and people-obsessed
• Good with kids? Yes, with gentle, respectful children
• Good with dogs? Often, especially with friendly house dogs
• Grooming needs: High – regular baths and skin care, needs warmth
• Nivel de energía: High – playful, mischievous and busy
• Ideal para: People home a lot, families, multi-pet homes that want a very involved cat

No fur? No problem! The Sphynx might look a little unconventional with its nearly hairless, wrinkled appearance, but spend a few minutes with one and you’ll forget about looks entirely – these cats are pure love and energy. Sphynxes are friendly, outgoing, and absolutely crave attention.

De hecho, a veces se les describe como payasos de la clase o niños pequeños perpetuos por sus travesuras juguetonas. Un Sphynx correteará de un lado a otro para presumir ante el público e incluso puede hacer trucos tontos (¡mientras se asegura de que le estás mirando!).

Les encanta la interacción humana y le seguirán a todas partes, a menudo gorjeando o trinando para llamar su atención. Cuando se acaba el tiempo de juego, los Sphynx están deseando acurrucarse: adoran el calor y el contacto, por lo que se acurrucarán bajo las mantas, se acurrucarán en tu regazo o incluso se aferrarán a ti como un monito.

This social butterfly nature means a Sphynx rarely hides or acts shy; they’ll likely greet houseguests with the same enthusiasm they show you. It’s safe to say that in the Sphynx’s opinion, everyone is a friend they haven’t met yet.

Is a Sphynx Right for You?

Consider a Sphynx if you want a high-energy, affectionate companion who will be deeply involved in your daily life. These cats are ideal for owners who have plenty of time and love to give – they do not like to be ignored!

Dado que los Sphynx están tan orientados a las personas, encajan bien en familias con niños u otras mascotas, siempre que los otros animales sean amables (un Sphynx incluso se acurrucará con el perro de la familia en busca de calor y amistad). Son más felices en un hogar ajetreado con mucha compañía; si trabaja muchas horas, puede considerar tener dos gatos Sphynx para que se hagan compañía mutuamente.

First-time cat parents should note that Sphynxes require a bit of special care: their lack of fur means they can get cold easily and yes, you might need to dress your Sphynx in a cute sweater on chilly days! Also, they do need regular skin care – oils accumulate on their skin, so a weekly bath (which many Sphynxes tolerate well if accustomed young) will keep them clean and comfortable.

No deje que esto le asuste; muchos propietarios consideran que estas rutinas de aseo refuerzan el vínculo con su Sphynx. En cuanto al mantenimiento, piense que un Sphynx es mitad gato, mitad bebé: le mantendrán ocupado, pero con todos los mimos y entretenimientos que proporcionan, merece totalmente la pena.

If you’re ready for a cat that will love you exuberantly and keep you laughing, the Sphynx could be your ultimate SnuggleSoul.

Más información sobre su Sphynx

9. Scottish Fold – Soft-Spoken Companion

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★☆ very sweet, affectionate and calm
• Good with kids? Yes, usually good with gentle children
• Good with dogs? Often, with calm, respectful dogs
• Grooming needs: Short coat; weekly brushing (more if long-haired)
• Nivel de energía: Low–moderate – playful spurts, lots of lounging
• Ideal para: Families, apartments, people who want a mellow, loving cat

It’s hard not to say “aww” when you meet a Scottish Fold – those unique folded ears and round expressive eyes give them an owl-like cuteness that’s off the charts. But beyond looks, Scottish Folds are adored for being incredibly sweet and affectionate.

In fact, they’re just as warm-hearted as their appearance suggests, often befriending everyone in the family – including other pets. A Scottish Fold is typically a quiet companion with a gentle soul. They enjoy being near their humans, whether that means sitting on your lap or just cuddling up at your feet.

Muchos Folds también tienen hábitos extravagantes, como posar en posturas divertidas (la clásica "sentada de Buda" sobre sus patas traseras o tumbados como una tortita). Estas travesuras, combinadas con su naturaleza cariñosa, los hacen absolutamente entrañables.

Son moderadamente juguetones; un Scottish Fold perseguirá alegremente un ratón de juguete o participará en un juego de puntero láser, pero se contentan igualmente con dormitar en un lugar soleado.

La adaptabilidad es otro de sus puntos fuertes: los pliegues escoceses suelen enfrentarse a los cambios o a las nuevas personas con una curiosidad tranquila y no con miedo.

Is a Scottish Fold Right for You?

A Scottish Fold can be a fantastic choice if you want a mellow, loving cat that fits well in a family setting. They are known to be good with kids, other cats, and even calm dogs, thanks to their laid-back and friendly temperament.

First-time cat owners often appreciate that Scottish Folds are neither too needy nor aloof – they strike a nice balance, being affectionate without constantly demanding attention. That said, Folds do love company and may prefer having a buddy (whether human or animal) around; they’re not fond of being left alone for long periods.

Una nota importante: el gen que causa sus orejas plegadas también puede provocar problemas articulares o artritis en algunos Scottish Folds. Un criador responsable hablará de esto con usted, pero como propietario, esto significa que debe tratarlos con cuidado y estar atento a cualquier signo de incomodidad a medida que envejecen.

Mantener a su Fold en un peso saludable y proporcionarle suplementos para las articulaciones si se recomienda puede ayudar. El cuidado de un Scottish Fold de pelo corto es fácil (sólo un cepillado semanal), e incluso la variedad de pelo largo (a veces llamada Highland Fold) sólo necesita un poco más de peinado.

In return for this basic care, you’ll get a devoted, teddy-bear-like friend. If your heart melts at the thought of a round-faced kitty curling up next to you and purring softly, a Scottish Fold might be your SnuggleSoul match.

Más información sobre su Pliegue escocés

10. Exotic Shorthair – Low-Maintenance Lap Cat

De un vistazo

• Friendliness: ★★★★★ very affectionate, loyal and gentle
• Good with kids? Yes, usually great with polite children
• Good with dogs? Often, with calm, friendly dogs
• Grooming needs: Short, dense coat; weekly brushing
• Nivel de energía: Low – relaxed with occasional playful bursts
• Ideal para: First-time owners, apartments, anyone wanting a cuddly but low-fuss cat

Think of the Exotic Shorthair as the Persian’s easy-going cousin. This breed was developed to have the same loving personality of a Persian but without the high-maintenance coat.

The result? A sweet, quiet, and affectionate cat with a plush short coat and an adorably squishy face. Exotics are sometimes nicknamed “lazy man’s Persians” because they are gentle, loyal companions who don’t require as much grooming.

These cats are very people-friendly – an Exotic will happily snuggle on your lap or sit next to you, content in your presence. They tend to be calm and not overly demanding. While they enjoy playtime like any cat (and can be quite goofy batting at feather toys or chasing a ball), Exotics are typically low-to-moderate in energy.

Pasan buena parte del día durmiendo la siesta u observando. Es posible que oigas a un Exotic Shorthair emitir maullidos suaves y chirriantes cuando quiere que le prestes atención, pero no son ruidosos ni insistentes.

En resumen, tienen un gran corazón y una actitud despreocupada, por lo que encajan muy bien en todo tipo de hogares.

Is an Exotic Shorthair Right for You?

For someone seeking a devoted, low-fuss lap cat, an Exotic Shorthair is a top contender. They are ideal for families or individuals who want an affectionate pet but prefer a more relaxed, quiet home life. Exotics typically get along with other friendly pets and polite children – their tolerant and gentle nature means they won’t be the ones instigating trouble.

In our experience, first-time cat owners do great with Exotics because these cats are adaptable and undemanding. You won’t need to chase them around the house (unless they get a brief silly burst of energy), and they’re perfectly content being indoor-only cats lounging in comfort.

Una de las mayores ventajas es que el esfuerzo de aseo es mínimo. Un cepillado semanal o una limpieza de vez en cuando mantienen su denso pelaje en buen estado y evitan las plantas rodadoras de los persas.

Vigile esa bonita cara plana; al igual que los persas, los exóticos pueden tener tendencia a tener los ojos llorosos o la nariz resfriada, por lo que una pequeña limpieza facial de vez en cuando los mantendrá sanos.

If you can manage that, you’ll be rewarded with an extremely loyal companion who shows you love without being a velcro-cat shadow. An Exotic Shorthair is perfect for someone who wants a cuddly, sweet best friend in feline form – definitely a SnuggleSoul in our book.

If you’re specifically hunting for ultra-chilled, low-energy companions, you can also browse our laziest cat breeds list, where Persians, Exotics and Ragdolls all feature as top “couch potato” cats.

Más información sobre su Exótico de pelo corto

Nuestra promesa: Toda una vida de abrazos

En SnuggleSouls sabemos que acoger un gato en tu vida es más que una elección: es el comienzo de un hermoso viaje. Y estamos aquí para guiarte en cada paso.

With years of experience helping families find their perfect feline match, we’re proud to offer honest, compassionate support from the moment you start your search. Whether your heart leans toward a playful Siamese or a gentle Birman from our list of the friendliest cat breeds, we’ll help you feel confident and ready to give your cat the loving home they deserve.

Desde consejos prácticos hasta consuelo emocional, somos su compañero de confianza en todas las etapas de la crianza de mascotas. Porque todos los gatos merecen una vida segura y feliz, y todos los padres de gatos merecen sentirse apoyados. Brindemos por años de alegría, vínculos afectivos y, por supuesto, acurrucamientos interminables.

Encuentre su pareja perfecta entre todas las razas de gatos

En SnuggleSouls, creemos que todos los gatos merecen un hogar para siempre, y todos los amantes de los gatos merecen el compañero felino perfecto. Tanto si te atrae el encanto de razas de gatos pequeñosla naturaleza equilibrada de gatos medianoso la majestuosa presencia de razas de gatos grandesTenemos guías detalladas para ayudarte a elegir.

¿Prefieres que el aseo sea coser y cantar? Echa un vistazo a nuestras razas de gatos de pelo corto, gatos sin peloy razas con poco pelo. ¿Anhela abrigos de lujo? Nuestro guía de razas de gatos de pelo largo podría derretirte el corazón.

Si usted o los miembros de su familia son alérgicos, no se preocupe: también hemos elaborado una lista de confianza de razas de gatos hipoalergénicos que podrían funcionar mejor para los hogares sensibles.

Explore todas nuestras guías de razas para encontrar el alma cariñosa que realmente está hecha para usted.

FAQ About the Friendliest Cat Breeds

¿Qué raza de gato es la más amistosa en general?

Ragdolls are often considered one of the friendliest cat breeds thanks to their very relaxed, people-loving nature. Other breeds such as Maine Coons, Burmese, Siamese and Birmans can be just as affectionate when they are well socialised and raised in a loving home.

¿Son estas razas buenas con los niños y otros animales de compañía?

Yes, most of the breeds on this list are known for being patient and adaptable with gentle children, other cats and even cat-friendly dogs. Successful introductions should always be done slowly, with supervision, so that every animal feels safe.

¿Puedo adoptar estos gatos o necesito un criador?

You can absolutely adopt these cats. Pure-bred rescues, shelters and breed-specific rescue networks often have Ragdolls, Siamese, Persians, Maine Coons and other friendly breeds in need of homes. Mixed-breed cats can be incredibly affectionate as well, especially when they are well socialised.

¿Qué razas de gatos son las mejores para los primerizos?

Breeds like Ragdoll, Birman, Exotic Shorthair and Scottish Fold are often recommended for first-time owners because they tend to be calm, affectionate and relatively easy to care for. Other breeds on this list can also be great first cats as long as you are prepared for their grooming and energy needs.

¿Los gatos cariñosos son siempre gatos falderos?

Not always. Some friendly breeds, such as Abyssinians or Sphynx cats, show affection by following you around, playing and interacting rather than sitting in your lap. They may not be traditional lap cats, but they are still very people-oriented and loving.