What cat breeds are the best for children? 🐱

Mother and daughter petting a cat — Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Why is it important what breed I choose?

Cats are very different, not only when it comes to looks. The different cat breeds also have very diverse personalities, likes and dislikes, needs and requirements. So it’s important to choose the right cat that suits your family and environment.

For parents, a very important aspect of bringing a cat into your household is that they’re relatively low maintenance, compared to other pets, and that will make your life easier in the long-term.

Do cats like kids?

Yes, most cats are very friendly with kids and can form a close bond over a short period of time. And kids will appreciate a cat that fits their expectations, which is usually a gentle, playful and easy-going breed.

Cats get along very well with kids in general because they love to snuggle when sleeping, and they have high energy levels to keep up when it’s play time. They can also teach kids very important lessons about patience, responsibility and boundaries.

How do I decide what breed is best for my kids?

There are a few details that need to be looked at first, but it’s a fairly easy process that mainly consists of assessing your family’s lifestyle and habits and matching them to the right cat breed.

Basically, it all boils down to three main things to consider: age, energy level and environment. Toddlers and very young children will get along easier with a chilled out cat, while higher age groups appreciate a more energetic breed. Another thing to consider is whether you live in an apartment or a house with a garden or outdoor play area.

We’ll learn about 6 of the best suited cat breeds for kids in the next part.

Toddler and cat — Photo by Chewy on Unsplash

The Abyssinian

Very loving, smart and loyal, Abyssinian cats are great for any family, and especially for those with older kids, although they can sometimes get bored and sprint away from babies or toddlers.

Keep in mind they’re not known to be lap cats, they’re highly energetic felines, always running around, climbing stuff and exploring everywhere. We’re sure just a quick look at that smooth fur will make your kids fall in love with an Abyssinian cat 😍:

Abyssinian cat Photo — by Timo Volz on Unsplash

American Shorthair

Better suited for a relaxed indoor lifestyle, the American Shorthair is a laid-back and chilled-out cat. They’re strong and sturdy animals, with thick bones and powerful muscles. This is due to their ancestry as working cats, having been used to catch pesky rodents.

Although they love to play, they also have a flexible personality, and will just sit on your kid’s lap and keep them company if required. They also keep themselves entertained and find ways to play on their own, so they won’t need constant attention. Kids of all ages love these low maintenance cats and you can quickly see why:

American Shorthair — Photo by Natalie Dmay on Unsplash

The Ragdoll

A big favorite of all families with kids, Ragdolls are one of the most loving and loyal creatures you will find. They often greet you at the door and follow you around the home to finally lay on your lap. They love to be held, cuddled and kissed, and they often relax their body to the point of becoming floppy, just like a ragdoll, hence the name.

Ragdolls are favorite pets for families with babies, toddlers but also teenagers. They’re medium to big size, with unique colorpoint furs and big bright blue eyes that captivate and stand out:

Ragdoll cat — Photo by Mikhail Vasilyev on Unsplash

Maine Coons

These large cats can weigh up to 20 pounds, but are known as gentle giants because of their playfulness and affectionate nature. They are loyal but also independent animals, having been bred initially in Maine for keeping rodents under control.

Preferred by most families that have outdoor playing areas, they make great companions for growing kids. Their look is very distinctive, wearing a long and thick coat, with long whiskers and ear fluffs.

Maine Coon — Photo by Bob Commander on Unsplash

The Himalayan

Having Persian and Siamese ancestry, these sweet cats have inherited the best characteristics of both breeds. They’re known to play well with kids of any age, but will also enjoy warming your lap and chilling out for the night.

You won’t confuse this cat breed with any other, as their appearance is unique and mesmerizing. Round faces, blue eyes, snub noses and pouty expressions, what’s not to love?

Himalayan cat — Photo by Claudia Schmalz on Pexels

Bengals

Last but certainly not least on the list, these beautiful cats have real wild ancestry, having been bred from the Asian leopard. They’re large felines, long and lean, with muscular bodies and boldly spotted coats. The patterns very closely resemble their wild cousins.

The Bengals’ looks are certainly their strong point, but personality is a strong second too! They will get along well with any age kids, being affectionate and gentle pets, although they are very active and curious in their nature. They are very playful and love to get constant attention. Just look at these magnificent mini-leopards!

Bengal cat — Image by Gidon Pico from Pixabay

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Meow-gnificently yours,

Jules 🎩🐾