As 10 raças de gatos mais amigáveis - Para famílias e donos de primeira viagem

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.

Visão rápida: 10 raças de gatos mais amigáveis

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.)

(Acima, resumimos a personalidade, os cuidados com a higiene e as necessidades de energia de cada raça em uma visão geral. Continue lendo para uma introdução mais pessoal a cada felino amigável!)

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, escondido 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 most affectionate cat breeds – it zooms in on the ultimate cuddle bugs.

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

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: Low–moderate – enjoys play, but prefers snuggles
• Melhor 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.

Não se surpreenda se o seu Ragdoll aprender a brincar de buscar ou se vier quando for chamado - eles são bastante inteligentes e "parecidos com cachorros" em sua devoção. Com um Ragdoll, você nunca se sentirá sozinho; o lugar preferido dele é ao seu lado, ronronando alegremente.

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 um pai de gato de primeira viagem, você perceberá que os Ragdolls são não excessivamente exigenteEles são brincalhões, mas não hiperativos, preferindo abraços e cochilos aconchegantes a brincadeiras selvagens. Lembre-se de que seu belo pelo semilongo precisa ser escovado uma ou duas vezes por semana para ficar livre de emaranhados.

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!)

Leia mais sobre seu Ragdoll

2. Maine Coon – Gentle Giant for Families

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: Moderate – playful but easygoing
• Melhor 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.

Eles também são bastante inteligentes - alguns donos os ensinam truques ou a andar na coleira, pois os Maine Coons podem ser tão treinados e companheiros quanto os cães.

Is a Maine Coon Right for You?

A Maine Coon could be the one if you want a pet that’s ótimo para crianças e outros animais de estimação, 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.

Se você sonha com um gato amigável, de modos suaves, que possa acompanhar a vida familiar e cumprimentar todos os visitantes com um ronronar, o Maine Coon pode ser a sua alma gêmea ideal para se aconchegar.

Leia mais sobre seu Maine Coon

3. Siamese – Talkative People-Cat

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: High – very active and vocal
• Melhor 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.

Essa raça prospera com a interação - eles são famosos por sua vocalização, conhecidos por seus miados baixos, mas altos (alguns os chamam de "meezers" por seus sons de meezer!). Um siamês lhe dirá exatamente como se sente e exigirá muita atenção.

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.

No entanto, como muitas raças amigáveis, sua afeição geralmente se concentra na família - os gatos siameses podem ser um pouco cautelosos com estranhos no início, embora se tornem mais calorosos quando a confiança é conquistada.

Is a Siamese Right for You?

Um siamês pode ser perfeito se você deseja um companheiro constante e não se importam com um animal de estimação falante. Geralmente, recomendamos o siamês para lares onde há alguém por perto a maior parte do dia - eles se dão melhor quando têm companhia, seja humana ou de outro animal de estimação.

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.

Leia mais sobre seu Siamês

4. Abyssinian – Curious, People-Oriented Shadow

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: High – athletic, busy and playful
• Melhor 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).

No entanto, se você prefere um gato que não gosta de ficar no sofá, o Abissínio pode ser um pouco exagerado - ele ficará entediado se não tiver um estímulo amplo. Os donos de gatos de primeira viagem podem gostar muito de um Aby, desde que você esteja preparado para um animal de estimação enérgico e que a sua casa seja à prova de gatos (pense nisso como se fosse à prova de crianças pequenas - esses gatos investigam tudo!)

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.

Se o seu gato ideal é aquele que o cumprimenta na porta, monta em seu ombro e transforma cada dia em uma aventura divertida, o Abissínio pode ser o seu SnuggleSoul definitivo.

Leia mais sobre seu Abissínio

5. Persian – Calm Long-Haired Lap Cat

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: Low – relaxed and laid-back
• Melhor para: Quiet households, owners who enjoy daily grooming and cuddle time

The Persian is the classic calm, fofinho 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.

Seu temperamento doce e seus olhos redondos e expressivos podem derreter o coração de qualquer pessoa, e eles geralmente se comunicam com chilreios suaves e melódicos em vez de miados altos.

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.

Eles são especialmente ótimos para lares mais calmos - idosos e indivíduos ou famílias que gostam de uma atmosfera calma acham que os persas são companheiros maravilhosos. Eles se dão bem com crianças gentis e animais de estimação educados; os persas são tolerantes, mas realmente se desenvolvem em um ambiente onde não são constantemente assustados ou perseguidos.

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.

Muitos donos de persas transformam a escovação em um momento de interação - seu persa provavelmente gostará da atenção quando estiver acostumado com a rotina. Além disso, mantenha o rostinho achatado dele limpo, pois esses olhos grandes podem lacrimejar.

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.

Leia mais sobre seu Persa

6. Burmese – Social, Dog-Like Cuddler

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: High – playful and energetic
• Melhor 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 personalidade 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.

Se você estiver pronto para ter um amigo tagarela e brincalhão que queira ser sua segunda sombra e seu parceiro de carinho, um birmanês pode ser o SnuggleSoul ideal.

Leia mais sobre seu Birmanês

7. Birman – Easy-Going Family Sweetheart

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: Low–moderate – playful but not hyper
• Melhor 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.

Um Birmanês se parece um pouco com um gato do tipo siamês pontudo cruzado com um persa mais fofo - eles têm lindos olhos azuis e pelagem sedosa de comprimento médio com lindas "luvas" brancas nas patas. Ao contrário de algumas raças falantes, os birmaneses geralmente são mais calmos, comunicando-se com chilreios suaves quando têm algo a dizer.

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.

Em vez disso, o Birmanês geralmente leva a vida na boa. Ele gosta de atenção e carinho (quem não gosta de uma boa sessão de carícias?), mas não é tão exigente quanto, por exemplo, um siamês.

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.

Eles apreciam sua companhia, portanto, embora não sejam excessivamente carentes, podem se sentir solitários se forem deixados sozinhos o dia todo, todos os dias (considere a possibilidade de ter um par de birmaneses ou um amigo de estimação se você estiver ausente com frequência). A limpeza de um Birmanês é moderada: seu pelo é de comprimento médio, mas a textura é sedosa e não é tão propensa a emaranhar como a de um 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.

Se você está procurando um gato que seja sempre bondoso e adaptável - um verdadeiro amor de família - o Birmanês pode ser o seu SnuggleSoul ideal.

Leia mais sobre seu Birmans

8. Sphynx – Attention-Loving Class Clown

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: High – playful, mischievous and busy
• Melhor 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 fato, às vezes eles são descritos como palhaços de classe ou crianças perpétuas por causa de suas brincadeiras e travessuras. Um Sphynx dá voltas para se exibir para uma plateia e pode até fazer truques engraçados (o tempo todo verificando se você está assistindo!).

Eles prosperam com a interação humana e o seguirão por toda parte, muitas vezes cantando ou trinando para chamar sua atenção. Quando a brincadeira acaba, o Sphynx está ansioso para receber carinho - ele adora calor e contato, por isso se aconchega debaixo de cobertores, se enrola no seu colo ou até mesmo se agarra a você como um macaquinho.

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!

Como os gatos da raça Sphynx são muito voltados para as pessoas, eles se adaptam bem a famílias com crianças ou outros animais de estimação, desde que os outros animais sejam gentis (um Sphynx pode até se aconchegar ao cachorro da família para se aquecer e fazer amizade). Eles são mais felizes em uma casa movimentada e com muita companhia; se você trabalha muitas horas, considere a possibilidade de ter dois gatos Sphynx para que eles possam fazer companhia um ao outro.

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 entanto, não deixe que isso o assuste; muitos proprietários acham que essas rotinas de cuidados fortalecem o vínculo com seu Sphynx. Em termos de manutenção, pense em um Sphynx como metade gato, metade bebê - eles o manterão ocupado, mas com todos os aconchegos e entretenimento que proporcionam, vale totalmente a pena.

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

Leia mais sobre seu Sphynx

9. Scottish Fold – Soft-Spoken Companion

At a glance

• 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)
• Energy level: Low–moderate – playful spurts, lots of lounging
• Melhor 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.

Muitos Folds também têm hábitos peculiares, como posar em posições engraçadas (o clássico "Buddha sit" em suas patas traseiras ou deitado como uma panqueca). Essas travessuras, combinadas com sua natureza carinhosa, fazem com que eles sejam totalmente cativantes.

Eles são moderadamente brincalhões; um Scottish Fold perseguirá alegremente um rato de brinquedo ou participará de um jogo de laser pointer, mas eles também se contentam em cochilar em um local ensolarado.

A adaptabilidade é outro ponto forte - os Scottish Folds geralmente lidam com mudanças ou pessoas novas com curiosidade calma, em vez de medo.

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.

Uma observação importante: o gene que causa as orelhas dobradas também pode levar a problemas nas articulações ou artrite em alguns Scottish Folds. Um criador responsável discutirá isso com você, mas, como proprietário, isso significa que você deve lidar com eles com cuidado e ficar atento a qualquer sinal de desconforto à medida que envelhecem.

Manter seu Fold em um peso saudável e fornecer suplementos para as articulações, se recomendado, pode ajudar. Cuidar de um Scottish Fold de pelo curto é fácil (basta uma escovação semanal), e mesmo a variedade de pelo longo (às vezes chamada de Highland Fold) precisa apenas de um pouco mais de penteado.

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.

Leia mais sobre seu Scottish Fold

10. Exotic Shorthair – Low-Maintenance Lap Cat

At a glance

• 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
• Energy level: Low – relaxed with occasional playful bursts
• Melhor 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.

Eles passam boa parte do dia cochilando ou observando. É possível ouvir um Exotic Shorthair emitir miados suaves e estridentes quando quer sua atenção, mas ele não é barulhento ou insistente.

Em suma, eles têm um grande coração e atitudes tranquilas, e é por isso que se adaptam tão bem a todos os tipos de lares.

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.

Uma das maiores vantagens é o esforço mínimo de cuidados com a pelagem. Uma escovação semanal ou uma limpeza ocasional mantém a pelagem densa em boa forma, e você evita a queda de pelos que vem com um persa.

Fique de olho nesse lindo rosto liso; assim como os persas, os exóticos podem ter uma tendência a olhos lacrimejantes ou narizes fungantes, portanto, uma pequena limpeza facial de vez em quando os manterá saudáveis.

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.

Leia mais sobre seu Pelo curto exótico

Nossa promessa a você: Uma vida inteira de aconchego

Na SnuggleSouls, sabemos que receber um gato em sua vida é mais do que uma escolha - é o início de uma bela jornada. E estamos aqui para orientá-lo em cada passo.

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.

De dicas práticas a garantias emocionais, somos sua companhia confiável em todas as etapas da criação de um animal de estimação. Porque todo gato merece uma vida segura e feliz - e todo pai de gato merece se sentir apoiado. Um brinde a anos de alegria, união e, é claro, aconchego sem fim.

Encontre seu par perfeito entre todas as raças de gatos

Na SnuggleSouls, acreditamos que todo gato merece um lar para sempre - e todo amante de gatos merece o companheiro felino perfeito. Se você se sente atraído pelo charme de raças pequenas de gatosA natureza equilibrada do gatos médiosou a presença majestosa de raças grandes de gatosTemos guias detalhados para ajudá-lo a escolher com sabedoria.

Prefere que os cuidados com o cabelo sejam fáceis? Confira nossas opções para raças de gatos de pelo curto, gatos sem pelose raças com pouco pelo. Desejando casacos luxuosos? Nossos Guia de raças de gatos de pelo longo pode simplesmente derreter seu coração.

Se você ou os membros de sua família tiverem alergias, não se preocupe - também selecionamos uma lista confiável de raças de gatos hipoalergênicos que podem funcionar melhor para famílias sensíveis.

Explore todos os nossos guias de raças para encontrar a alma aconchegante que realmente foi feita para você.

FAQ About the Friendliest Cat Breeds

Qual raça de gato é a mais amigável em geral?

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.

Essas raças são boas com crianças e outros animais de estimação?

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.

Posso adotar esses gatos ou preciso de um 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.

Quais raças de gatos são melhores para quem está começando?

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.

Os gatos carinhosos são sempre gatos de colo?

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.