10 Cat Breeds that are Great for Kids

Well, ya went an decided a cat friend was right for yer family. I can’t blame ya, they are great pets, easy to care for and independent as all get out. I got a couple of cat friends myself. If’n ya got kiddos runnin’ ’round the house, there’s some cats that are better than others for dealin’ with em. While my Lady’s favorite breeds are shelter cats and stray cats, some humanz like to get an actual ‘breed of cat’. Maybe that’s s’pose to make em fancier, I don’t know. But, to hear my cat friends talk, there’s actually some of them cats with a pedigree livin’ in the shelters too! So, make sure ya check out your local shelter if’n ya lookin’ to give a cat a home!

Not all cats have the patience or body type to put up with the li’l ones. I guess havin’ a pedigree means ya might be delicate or high strung WOOF! I still say the common ole alley cat is your best bet WOOF! But, if’n you’re still set on gettin’ a particular cat breed, here are 10 cat breeds that are great for kids.

10 Cat Breeds that are Great for Kids

1. The Maine Coon – If you have an outdoor pen, or plan to have an indoor/outdoor cat, this is a purr-fect choice. They are very playful and love the outdoors; they are very loyal and have huge personalities and often huge bodies. They are very large and often top twelve pounds. They have longer hair than most cats, so they do require grooming a couple of times a week. Maine Coons are constantly in motion, even in their sleep, kids can be entertained by trying to find out the different positions they’ll find their cat every morning.

2. The American Shorthair – This is a medium activity cat with a playful personality. They are very loyal and develop deep bonds with the people in their lives. They get along well with other animals and children and like to play, but not for hours and hours. They have muscular bodies and short hair, making them a good choice for a family looking for a lower maintenance pet.

3. The British Shorthair – Very similar to the American short hair. Its muscular body and short hair requires little grooming and can easily withstand constant petting. They have great personalities and can be very playful. The main drawback is that they are susceptible to ailments like sun burn and tumors. White fur and blue eyes means they are prone to go deaf.

4. The Siamese Cat – Siamese cats take a while to warm up to the family as they tend to be shy, but once they do they are very loyal, so they are great family animals. They will play and keep the kids moving, while their short hair requires very little grooming. If you are concerned with allergies they are an excellent choice as they are less likely to trigger a reaction.

5. The Persian Cat – If you are looking for more mellow cat, the Persian is an excellent choice. They are more like a big fluffy stuffed animal. They don’t demand attention but are willing to take it when you give it. They are best kept indoors, however, as their long fluffy coats collect debris and dirt quite easily. Other than needing regular brushing, they are very low maintenance.

6. The Tiffany Cat – These semi-long hairs are also known as Chantilly. They are active, but also enjoy quiet time and are very even tempered and not aggressive. They play well with children, as long as they aren’t chased constantly and worn out. Very even keeled cat with a shiny, silky coat.

7. The Birman Cat – A cross between a Siamese and Persian cat. They are very docile, so if your children are active, they won’t find the Birman to be very much fun. They are able and willing to sit for long periods of time, which will come in handy for when you have to groom their soft, long coat. Great cat for low energy kids who prefer to snuggle the cat over chasing him around.

8. The Manx Cat – The tailless cat, well not really tailless, just a short stub. They are very playful and friendly, almost like a dog. Like a dog, they also bury things and dig, something to think about if you were planning an indoor/outdoor cat.

9. The Abyssinian Cat – This is a good choice for older, more energetic children. They are slender and muscular cats that like to be outside. They are very playful, almost clownish, but they get demanding if not given regular attention. They don’t warm up to children, so kids will have to be patient when first bringing one home. They are good to have as kittens.

10. The Ragdoll Cat – A very quirky breed of cat. They go totally limp when lifted, but that’s the only time. They are very sturdy and get along with kids and dogs both. They can even be taught tricks like a dog, they are willing to fetch and “play dead”. They aren’t very high energy though, so if you want a cat to chase the kids around and wear them out, a Ragdoll isn’t for you. If you’re after a lay around cat, give them strong consideration.

Keep your children’s ages and personalities in mind when choosing a cat and be sure to match the child’s personality with the cats. Do it right and you will have a stress free relationship, if you get a mismatch, you are in for more work than you need to.