Cats are potentially great first pets for kids, and they can also be wonderful additions to a family. Just as some breeds like to hunt or prefer solitude, other breeds are loveable clowns that enjoy being around people. When kids and cats bond, it can be really special and endearing. What’s more, since many cats typically live for 15 to 20 years, families can expect a pet that will grow up alongside their children. Our list of the top five best cat breeds for kids includes some of the most patient and affectionate breeds that enjoy being around children.
How to Choose the Best Cat for Your Kids
When choosing a cat for your family, it is important to consider the ages of your children, their activity levels, and their overall personalities. Some cat breeds are better suited for families with young children, while others thrive better in homes with older children or adults.
Here are a few tips on how to select the right cat for your family:
- Choose a breed that is known to be gentle and patient. Some breeds, such as the Ragdoll, Maine Coon, and American Shorthair, are known for being good with kids. They are typically gentle and patient, and they can withstand a certain amount of roughhousing.
- Avoid breeds that are known to be aggressive or skittish. Some breeds, such as the Siamese and Abyssinian, can be more high-strung and may not be as well-suited for homes with young children.
- Consider your lifestyle. If you have a very active family, you will want to choose a breed that is also active and playful. If you have a more laid-back lifestyle, you may want to choose a breed that is more content to cuddle up with you on the couch.
- Meet the cat before you adopt it. If possible, try to meet the cat before you adopt it to see how it interacts with your children. This will give you a good idea of whether or not the cat is a good fit for your family.
- Look for a cat that is socialized. Socialized cats are used to being around people and other animals, and they are more likely to be good with kids.
- Consider adopting an adult cat. Adult cats have already developed their personalities, so you will have a better idea of what you are getting into before you adopt.
- Get your kids involved in the adoption process. Let your kids meet the cats and help you choose one. This will help them feel more connected to the cat and make the transition to a new pet easier for everyone.
Once you have chosen a cat for your family, it is important to teach your children how to interact with it safely and respectfully. Show them how to pick up the cat, pet it, and play with it. Also, teach them how to read the cat’s body language so that they know when to leave it alone.
With a little planning, you can choose the perfect cat for your family and enjoy many years of happy companionship. Education and awareness are important keys to finding the best feline match for growing kiddos. Cats can make great pets when they are paired with attentive and caring families. Let us know your favorite cat breeds for kids in the comments below!
The List: Best Cats For Kids, Per Feline Experts
1. Abyssinian
Abyssinian cats are heavily favored by our sources as one of the best cat breeds for kids. These low maintenance kitties are mid-weight at around 10 pounds fully grown. Pure Wow raves, “These cats are lithe and strong and love to play with whoever will join them. Abyssinians are also unabashedly affectionate and highly intelligent. Get ready for ample activity with these kitties, including climbing as high as they can get in any given environment.”
Petfinder praises, “Life with an Abyssinian is never boring. Highly energetic, charmingly entertaining, and insatiably curious, these busybodies are always on the prowl, unless it’s time to eat or sleep. Abyssinians, often called ‘Aby-silly-ans,’ are natural athletes that aren’t afraid of heights. Affectionate, loyal, and people-oriented, this breed is best suited for families with children ages 6 and up.”
“Loyal, affectionate, and playful, Abyssinians are also very active and inquisitive. Their instinct for exploration will provide lots of entertainment. Highly intelligent, they usually respond well to clicker-training, and are one of the few breeds able to learn tricks,” exclaims Omlet.
2. American Shorthair
These American cats have been popular since they were first recognized in 1906 by the Cat Fanciers Association. Friendly, patient, and energetic: these cats can be a great match for kids. The Spruce Pets says, “American shorthairs are considered to be a great companion for families with children because of their gentle demeanor. Because of their history as mousers, they are playful and active cats but are also independent and don’t need constant attention from their families. They will happily look out the window or play independently at times.”
Daily Paws describes, “The breed tops the list of the best cats for kids — and they’re one of the most popular picks. These sweet cats are low-maintenance and tend to get along well with anyone, human or pet; they also usually live long, healthy lives. Bonus: With roots as working cats, American shorthairs are skilled at catching rodents, so they’ll pull their own weight in the family.”
“With good looks, a history of good health and a sweet personality, American Shorthairs make gentle companions and excellent playmates for children. The breed originated from cats following settlers from Europe to North America… They require fairly regular grooming, once or twice a week, to remove loose fur from their undercoat,” elaborates be chewy.
3. Birman
Not to be confused with the Burmese breed, the Birman was originally named “The Sacred Cat of Burma.” They are loving cats that bond strongly with their humans. “This breed makes wonderful family cats due to their ability to get along with anyone of any age, even rambunctious kids. These fluffy felines are known for their soft fur that’s perfect for snuggles, along with their mild temperament and social nature,” comments betterpet.
“These beautiful and affectionate cats make ideal companions for children as they’re easy to handle, very playful and have gentle temperaments. Although they’re less active than other breeds, they enjoy romping around with other household pets and can adapt to any type of home. They aren’t demanding but they do enjoy being petted and fussed by little ones and adults alike,” adds Webbox.
“The Birman cat breed gets described as being loving and affectionate… Birmans love playing, making them great play mates for children. They are a curious, inquisitive breed which loves exploring their environment making them great adventure buddies for children,” details hello Bark!
4. Burmese
Along with their close cousins the Birman, Burmese cats can be a great match for kids. They are seen by some as “needy” because of their strong desire for companionship. Pets Radar explains, “This sociable cat loves people and attention, which makes it ideal for a home with children. They are friendly, enthusiastic and playful – and have even been known to play fetch like dogs. This affectionate breed is happy to adopt a busy lifestyle and they’re patient with kids.”
“Burmese cats are typically chocolatey brown with bright, golden eyes. They are known for their patience with and enthusiasm for kids (and even cat-friendly dogs!). In fact, they love attention and do not enjoy being alone for long periods of time,” offers Pure Wow.
“Burmese cats have an almost doglike personality that is playful and easygoing. Their frisky, mischievous demeanor extends well into adulthood. Burmese cats will serve as playmates for children for years to come,” states Pet Finder.
5. Himalayan
These fluffy furballs are total love sponges. They require weekly grooming to keep their long coats looking great, and this can be a great responsibility-building exercise for kids. Pure Wow claims, “On the calmer, gentler side, Himalayans are fluffballs full of affection. They’re good sports when it comes to aggressive cuddling. Plus, they tend to go with the flow. So if a new baby is on the way, a Himalayan will ride the newborn wave just fine.”
“While they’re very sweet and loving, they’re generally better for families with older, less rambunctious children due to their low energy levels and overall docile nature. With that in mind, you’ll want to ensure your kid does try to play with them every day since prolonged inactivity can cause Himalayan cats to put on some extra pounds, leading to eventual weight problems,” relates betterpet.
“This sweet-natured cat will be just as happy playing with your kids as cuddling up on their lap. However, this breed is best suited for quieter homes and children who will be gentle with them as they do not like noise or commotion,” reviews Pets Radar.
You might also be interested in:
- Best Cat Breeds for Seniors
- Best Long-Haired Cat Breeds
- Best Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds
- Most Affectionate Cat Breeds
Sources:
- Pure Wow
- Petfinder
- Omlet
- The Spruce Pets
- Daily Paws
- be chewy
- betterpet
- Webbox
- hello Bark!
- Pets Radar
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
I’m not really a friend of cat, i love dogs
It seems to me that there is no real difference between the American Shorthair and any other shorthair cat from any animal Shelter in America. Any short haired cat is easier to take care of than a long haired cat.