Having a child grow up with pets not only keeps them entertained but shows them to love and respect nature and other living beings. But, if your child has never been introduced to a pet before, picking the right starter pet can be a bit difficult.
Cats are one of the better pets to start with if the right breed of cat is chosen. The best cat breeds for kids have an easy-going personality, have a high tolerance, and aren’t easily spooked by loud noises.
Depending on the age of your kid, you may have to teach the child how to handle a cat. Every cat has its limits, and you don’t want your child to pass it due to their eagerness to play. We’ve put together a list of twelve cats that have the potential to be the best family cats. Let’s take a look at how they are with kids and if they match what you need!
Best Cats for Kids
1. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are medium-sized cats typically with short, smooth fur that comes in a variety of colors. They are loyal, affectionate, and playful cats. They love to jump, run, and chase toys, so they are better suited for older children.
Abyssinians love to go outside, so you can teach your older child how to leash train them so they can enjoy outside play together. These cats love attention, so if you or your child doesn’t give them the attention they need, they can throw a tantrum.
Abyssinians, at first, may be hesitant around new people, but with patience and no force petting or holding the cat, Abyssinians will quickly become a child’s loving and loyal companion.
2. Siamese
Siamese are tall, flexible, and well-muscled. They have a point coloration pattern on their short fur and striking blue eyes. Siamese are very playful and seem to not run out of energy, no matter how much they play.
They make great companions for younger, active children who also need to get rid of pent up energy. Siamese are generally sweet-natured and seek out the attention of their owners, be it to play, cuddle, or ask for food.
They can be very vocal, especially when they want something, and are highly curious, so they will benefit from an active home.
3. Maine Coon
Also known as the gentle giant, Maine Coons are the largest domesticated cat breed. Maine Coons have big personalities and love being around their humans. Due to their size, Maine Coons are one of the more tolerable breeds to be handled by younger children.
Maine Coons are generally relaxed and easy-going, so they have a high tolerance for curious kids. Some Maine Coons even show a fascination toward children and tend to watch over them.
They also follow their humans around, enjoy playtime, and can even learn tricks. They are a well-rounded breed for children to start with.
4. Burmese
Burmese cats are bulky cats with an affectionate nature. They are social cats actively looking for their owners to play and entertain. Their large frame makes them more resistant to handsy children or heavy-handed petting.
They are one of the few breeds that can tolerate a loud an active home thanks to their nonchalant attitude. Burmese are highly intelligent cats, so be sure to provide them with entertainment or show your kids how to properly play with them to avoid tantrums from both cat and child.
5. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are large, fluffy cats who get their names from the way their muscles relax and go limp when picked up. It is unsure why Ragdolls do this limp trick, but it makes them easier to handle by children.
Ragdolls love to follow their people around for affection. These mild-mannered cats are best for calmer or older children since Ragdolls don’t have high energy.
Their laidback temperament makes them perfect cuddle companions or couch potato buddies. But they can learn tricks which can provide your child something to do after finishing their homework.
6. Manx
Manx cats are large cat breeds with short or long fur types. Their most well-known physical train is their lack of a tail, which is excellent for your kids! Without the typical cat tail, there’s nothing for your children to grab, pull, and anger the cat.
Manx’s can be a bit independent when they want alone time, but their heightened curiosity will have them exploring the home or following their owners around.
They have their moods where they can be highly playful, or laid-back and cuddly. Manx’s are a well-rounded cat breed for a child learning to control their energy levels.
7. Persian
Persians are fluffy, squish-faced cats with a variety of coat colors. Persians have a low activity level, so they fit better in homes with older or less active children.
Their calmer personalities can help children learn to play with cats correctly while learning to take care of their basic needs. They are low-maintenance cats as they don’t demand more than a couple of pets, some playtime, and plenty of food.
They do require daily brushing to maintain their long fur, which can be a fun daily activity for your child.
8. Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex cats are slender cats known for their wavy fur. These are one of the high energy cats on the list. They love to jump, play, explore, and get into every spot they can squeeze themselves through.
They are continually seeking out the attention of their owners, so they make great play companions for curious and energetic children. They’re also highly intelligent and seem to get along with other pets in the home.
Because Cornish Rex loves to explore, you need to kitten proof the house to make sure they don’t get into harmful situations or lead your curious child into one.
9. Exotic Short Hair
Exotic Short Hairs are described as being a short-haired version of a Persian cat. Their rounded ears and squished face make them look like teddy bears, which kids love. Like their Persian cousins, Exotic Short Hairs are playful, affectionate, and loyal.
They’re a bit more curious and outgoing and rarely develop destructive habits in the home. Since they rarely use their claws, they have a lower chance of scratching curious kids, but you should still respect their boundaries. They aren’t demanding cats and can quickly adapt to new environments or situations.
10. Himalayan
Himalayan cats take the fluffy, stout shape of a Persian and combine it with the curiosity and activity level of a Siamese. Himalayans love to play and can find entertainment in almost anything, even a scrap of paper.
They crave the attention of their humans and are highly dependent, devoted, and seek protection from them. Himalayans are sweet-tempered and laid back but are prone to getting stressed easily.
Because of that, Himalayans won’t do well in a loud or highly active home. But, if you have older, calmer, and quieter children in the house, Himalayans will love the gentle pets and more peaceful playtimes.
11. Scottish Fold
You can pick out a Scottish Fold from a group of cats thanks to their unique folded ears. Scottish Folds are an easy-going cat that is loving and friendly towards their humans.
Some Scottish Folds have been known to attach themselves more to a person and seek them out for food and attention more. But their calm nature makes them tolerable for petting from anyone, even strangers.
Loud noises don’t deter them, so they can adapt to a lively home or hyper pets. They are also able to adjust to new situations without being stressed.
12. Siberian
Siberians are bulky, semi-long-haired cats coming in a variety of colors. They are incredibly playful and affectionate, always looking for something to do. They make great companions in an active home with children and pet-friendly dogs.
They seek out constant companionship from their people, and their bold temperament will keep their fur from getting ruffled in new situations. Siberians are easy-going, so they are tolerable of curious kids.
Bottom Line
We have had a good look at the suggested cat breeds and how they do with kids. Now, you need to be the responsible adult to pick the one that best fits your child’s energy and personality, not just base the pick on which cat you like the best.
By taking into consideration the family environment you have to offer, you can avoid an angry cat, and injured child, and having to return the cat from where you acquired it. The main goal is to bring in a lifelong companion, so your child has a pet to grow up with and learn the fantastic feeling of loving and taking care of a pet.
And, of course, you want to be able to provide a cat with a loving home for all their lives. Take your time weighing the pros and cons of each cat breed and start looking around at rescues, shelters, or breeders where you can get the cat you end up choosing.
Don’t forget to visit the PetStruggles homepage to find all the required cat supplies for your new addition!
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