Best Cat Breeds for Kids: Finding the Perfect Cat Breed for Your Kids
Children and cats can be the perfect companions for one another. Cats are playful, gentle, and loving animals that can provide hours of amusement and love for kids. And with so many different breeds of cats to choose from, this list of the best cat breeds for kids is a must.
This list of the best cat breeds for kids will highlight the top options when it comes to finding the perfect cat breed for kids. Whether you’re looking for a gentle and calm kitty, or a more independent and playful breed, there’s something on this list that can suit your family.
Enjoy this list of Best Cat breeds for Kids!
Top 10 Cat Breeds for Kids:
1. American Shorthair
Size: 11 – 15 pounds
About Cat Breed: Laidback and easygoing, these sturdy felines are built for family life. The breed tops the list of the Best Cat Breeds 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. The American Shorthair truly exemplifies the qualities of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids with its adaptability and friendly nature.
2. Abyssinian
Size: 6 – 10 pounds
About Cat Breed: The Abyssinian is often a colorful cat with a distinctly ticked coat, medium in size and regal in appearance; lithe, hard, and muscular, showing eager activity and lively interest in their surroundings. They are often well balanced temperamentally and physically. Abyssinians, affectionately known as Abys, are affectionate, loyal, and normally mix well with children and other pets.
Known for their curiosity, playfulness, and need to explore their surroundings, Abyssinians are people-oriented cats who like to participate in the activities taking place around them. Their engaging personalities make them one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids.
3. Burmese
Size: 8 – 12 pounds
About Cat Breed: Playful and affectionate, the Burmese is at ease in a busy household and actively enjoys love and attention. They can even learn how to play fetch, like a pet dog. Fearless European Burmese cats remain playful and friendly well into their senior years.
These cats love being around their humans, and they tend to follow family members—including kids and even dogs—everywhere they go. Their social and interactive nature makes the Burmese one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids, perfect for families seeking an engaging and loving pet.
4. Birman
Size: 7 – 12 pounds
About Cat Breed: The Cat Fanciers’ Association describes the Birman cat as “mystical, magical, and enchanting.” These felines, with their striking blue eyes and sweet faces, are known for being easygoing, gentle, loving, and curious, making them some of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids.
Birmans are as sociable as they come and are likely to follow family members around the house, playing and even “helping” with chores—anything to be a part of the action. Their affectionate nature ensures they are a delightful addition to any family.
5. Maine Coon
Size: 11 – 25 pounds
About Cat Breed: The Maine Coon is solid, rugged, and can endure a harsh climate. A distinctive characteristic of this cat is the smooth, shaggy coat. This breed is well-proportioned, has a balanced appearance, and has adapted to varied environments.
Friendly, furry, and intelligent are general attributes of many cat breeds, but Maine Coon cats are especially friendly, furry, and intelligent. In fact, they’re quite adaptable and seem to get along with everyone. These qualities make the Maine Coon one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids, offering both companionship and fun.
6. Manx
Size: 8 – 12 pounds
About Cat Breed: Manx cats are famous for the thing they don’t have – a tail! This actually makes them perfect for younger children, as there is no tail to pull. Like the Burmese, they can be taught to play fetch. Playful and devoted, the Manx, who originated on the Isle of Man, is another one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids. With the stock of working cats, these medium-sized, rounded felines—who are often tail-less—are active, but not overly so, making them ideal for family life.
7. Ragdoll
Size: 15 – 20 pounds
About Cat Breed: For families seeking a pet akin to a baby doll, the Ragdoll may be your best bet. These cats, who tend to be fairly large and have bright blue eyes, are loved for their habits of collapsing into the arms of the person holding them, just like a ragdoll.
This laidback breed truly enjoys human companionship, and they’ll often greet their humans at the door and follow them around the home. Smart and playful, Ragdoll cats are content to curl up at your side at night or learn a new trick or two by day. Their gentle and loving nature makes them one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids.
8. Himalayan
Size: 7-12 pounds
About Cat Breed: A cross between the Siamese and Persian, the Himalayan is known to have the best characteristics of both breeds. These cats are sweet and playful by nature and are no strangers to warm laps. With their entrancing appearances (round faces, blue eyes, pouty mouths, and snub noses) and delightful temperaments, Himalayans are a frequent family pick. Their calm and affectionate demeanor ensures they are among the Best Cat Breeds for Kids.
9. Siamese
Size: 8-10 pounds
About Cat Breed: As one of the most affectionate and social breeds of cat, Siamese cats are renowned for following their owner around the house. They’re typically very playful and active and can be a great pet for families with children due to their gentle nature.
Playful, sweet-natured, and sociable, the Siamese has had a bad press on the strength of the sly specimens portrayed in the classic Disney film Lady and the Tramp. They are very entertaining and love to play with toys and explore every corner of the house. Their engaging and interactive personality makes them one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids.
10. Persian
Size: 7 – 13 pounds
About Cat Breed: Due to their calm, tranquil nature, Persians are a great family pet. They’re good with children, very patient, and tolerant of loud, active kids. They will make efforts to move away and seclude themselves if everything gets too much, but remember, every cat has its limits.
They are playful, but not demanding; their patience and social nature make them a great companion for households with children and other pets. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them one of the Best Cat Breeds for Kids, ensuring a peaceful and loving environment.
Editor’s Pick: Best Cat Breed for Kids and Families
When it comes to the best cat breed for kids, the Ragdoll stands out as our top choice. These gentle giants are affectionate, patient, and famously tolerant of being handled—traits that make them ideal for families with young children. Ragdolls are known to follow their owners around, greet them at the door, and happily play or relax on command. Their docile temperament, combined with their cuddly nature, creates the perfect feline companion for kids of all ages. If you’re looking for the best cat breed for kids and families, Ragdolls are hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Cat Breeds for Kids
What makes a cat breed good for kids?
The best cat breeds for kids are those that are gentle, tolerant, affectionate, and playful. These cats enjoy human interaction, are patient with young children, and can handle active households without becoming overly stressed.
Are there cat breeds that don’t mind being picked up or held?
Yes, breeds like the Ragdoll, Burmese, and Birman are known for enjoying being held and cuddled. They often seek out affection and will tolerate more handling than other breeds, making them great for kids who love to snuggle.
Should I avoid certain cat breeds if I have children?
Some breeds are more independent or sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements, such as Oriental Shorthairs or Bengals. While not inherently bad with kids, they may prefer a quieter, more predictable environment. Always consider the personality of the individual cat in addition to the breed.
Do cats get along with other pets?
Many of the best cat breeds for kids, like the American Shorthair or Maine Coon, also get along well with other animals. These sociable cats can cohabitate with dogs or other cats when properly introduced and socialized.
What age is best for kids to have a cat?
Children aged 5 and older generally do well with a cat, especially if taught how to handle them gently and respectfully. Always supervise younger children with pets to ensure both child and cat are safe and comfortable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Cat Breeds for Children
1. Consider Temperament Over Appearance
While fluffy coats and striking eyes might catch your eye, it’s the cat’s personality that matters most. Look for breeds known for their calm, tolerant, and affectionate demeanor, especially when children are involved.
2. Choose a Social and Adaptable Breed
Cats that are comfortable in noisy, active households are typically the best cat breeds for kids. Breeds like the Maine Coon and Siamese thrive in energetic homes and often form strong bonds with young family members.
3. Look for Low-Maintenance Grooming Needs
Unless you’re ready to invest time in brushing, avoid high-maintenance coats. Short-haired breeds like the American Shorthair or Manx are easier to care for and less prone to tangling or matting.
4. Adopt Based on Your Home’s Energy Level
If your home is busy and full of activity, choose a playful breed like the Abyssinian or Burmese. For quieter homes, calm breeds like the Persian or Birman may be a better fit for your kids.
5. Consider Age and Health of the Cat
Kittens are cute but require supervision and training. Sometimes adopting a young adult cat with a known temperament can be better for families with small kids. Make sure any cat you adopt is healthy, vaccinated, and has been socialized properly.
Best Cat Breeds for Kids Conclusion
There are a variety of cat breeds that make great companions for kids. If you’re looking for a furry friend for your child, consider one of these best cat breeds for kids.
From playful to loving, there’s sure to be a perfect match for your family.
Do you have experience with any of these cat breeds and kids? If you do, please feel free to share that below in the comments.
