The 15 best cat breeds for families and kids are siamese, persian, himalayan, ragdoll, american shorthair, maine coon, exotic shorthair, british shorthair, scottish fold, sphynx, birman, burmese, norwegian forest cat, tonkinese, and abyssinian. Cats are wonderful companions for children and can be a great addition to any family.
Whether you prefer a laid-back lap cat or an energetic playmate, there is a breed out there that is perfect for you. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 15 best cat breeds for families and kids.
Each of these breeds has its own unique personality and characteristics that make them great for living with children. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect feline friend for your family!
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Credit: www.thesprucepets.com
Temperament
The temperament of a cat breed is crucial when it comes to choosing a pet for your family. Calm and gentle breeds like the ragdoll and the persian cat are great for families with young kids. Their easy-going nature also makes them suitable for busy households.
However, if you’re looking for a more energetic and playful breed, then the siamese, sphynx or the bengal cat might be a better fit. These breeds require more attention and playtime. For families who prefer an independent pet, breeds like the maine coon and the norwegian forest cat are perfect.
They are affectionate, but also enjoy their alone time. Ultimately, finding a cat breed with the right temperament will ensure a happy and harmonious home for both you and your furry companion.
Allergies
Living with cat allergies can be difficult, but there are ways to manage symptoms. Certain cat breeds are considered hypoallergenic, such as the balinese, sphynx, and siberian. These cats produce fewer allergens and are less likely to trigger a reaction.
It’s important to note that no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, and some people may still react to these breeds. To manage allergies, keep the home clean and vacuum regularly. Use air purifiers and hepa filters to reduce allergens in the air.
Wash bedding and cat toys frequently, and avoid letting cats sleep on furniture or beds. With proper management and the right cat breed, families can enjoy the companionship of a feline friend without compromising their health.
Size
When it comes to cat breeds that are great for families and kids, size is an important factor to consider. Large cat breeds like maine coons and ragdolls are popular for their gentle personalities and affectionate nature. They love attention from their families and are great with children.
On the other hand, small cat breeds like the siamese and the persian are also great for families and kids. They are playful and make great companions for children. However, it is important to note that personality and temperament play a bigger role in choosing a cat breed for your family than their size.
Look for a breed that is known for being friendly, social and affectionate to ensure a positive experience for you and your children.
Coat Type
Different cat breeds have unique coat types, and short-haired cat breeds are some of the most popular choices for families with children. Short-haired cats are easy to groom, shedding less compared to long-haired counterparts, thus requiring less maintenance. On the other hand, long-haired cat breeds are popular for their striking looks, soft fur and elegant appearance.
However, they require more grooming, including daily combing and occasional baths to prevent matting. Before choosing a cat breed, families should consider their grooming preferences and availability. Short-haired cats are suitable for busy families while long-haired cats require more time and attention for optimal grooming.
Furthermore, set a grooming routine for different breeds to maintain their health, appearance and prevent matting, knots and hairballs.
Lifespan And Health
Cats make great pets for families with children due to their playful and affectionate nature. As with any pet, lifespan and health are important considerations when choosing a breed. The average lifespan of cats can range from 12 to 20 years, depending on the breed and individual health factors.
Some breeds, such as siamese and burmese, are known to have longer lifespans. However, all breeds are susceptible to health issues such as dental problems, kidney disease, and obesity. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian, proper nutrition, and regular exercise can help prevent and manage health concerns.
When choosing a cat, research the breed’s average lifespan and common health issues to ensure you choose the best fit for your family and can provide the necessary care throughout their life.
1. Abyssinian
Abyssinian cats are intelligent and active, making them ideal for families. Their short coats require minimal grooming. These cats enjoy playing and will happily interact with children. They are, however, known to become quite vocal and may demand attention. Their active nature means that they require plenty of exercise, which can be satisfied through interactive games and toys.
Overall, the abyssinian cat is a great choice for families looking for a playful, low-maintenance pet.
2. Birman
Birman cats make great pets for families with children due to their loving and affectionate nature. They are social creatures and enjoy being around people. Their long, silky coat requires weekly grooming to prevent matting. Although they are not as active as some other breeds, they still enjoy playing and will appreciate access to toys and scratching posts.
Overall, the birman is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a calm, loving feline companion. Their friendly, gentle temperament and adaptable nature make them a perfect fit for any household.
3. Maine Coon
The maine coon breed is a popular choice for families. They have a gentle temperament and are affectionate. Grooming requirements include frequent brushing because they have long fur. They are a medium-to-high activity breed and enjoy playing with children. Maine coons are also intelligent and trainable.
Overall, they make a great addition to a family with kids.
4. Persian
Persian cats make excellent companions for families, with their gentle and affectionate nature. They are known for their long, fluffy coats that require daily grooming to maintain their elegant appearance. Unlike some other breeds, persians prefer a more relaxed and calm lifestyle, making them well-suited for indoor living.
Their activity level is low, and they don’t require much exercise, preferring to lounge around and be pampered. Persians form strong bonds with their owners and are a good choice for families with children looking for a low-maintenance feline companion.
5. Siamese
Siamese cats make for great family pets. They are intelligent and playful, with a curious and social temperament. When it comes to grooming, they have a short, fine coat that requires minimal upkeep. Siamese cats are also quite active, making them a good choice for families with children who enjoy playing with pets.
They are affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners. If you’re looking for a feline companion that is both entertaining and easy to care for, consider adopting a playful and loving siamese cat.
6. Sphynx
The sphynx cat breed may not look like your typical cuddly, furry kitty, but they are incredibly affectionate and loving towards their families. Their lack of hair means grooming requirements are minimal, making them perfect for busy families. Despite their lack of fur, sphynx cats are highly energetic and love to play, making them perfect for active families with children.
These curious cats are known for their social personalities and love to be around people. If you’re looking for a unique, hypoallergenic, and loving cat breed, the sphynx might be the perfect addition to your family.
7. American Shorthair
The american shorthair breed is perfect for families and kids. They are great companions and have a playful and loving temperament. Their short, manageable fur requires minimal grooming. They are not high-maintenance cats. American shorthairs also have an optimal activity level, which is perfect for children who like to play with pets.
They are well-behaved and can adapt easily to new environments and people. Choosing this breed can make a great addition to any family that wants a furry friend with a calm, friendly, and low-maintenance personality. The american shorthair is just one of the many cat breeds that are perfect for families and kids.
8. British Shorthair
The british shorthair has a calm and stable temperament, making it perfect for families. Grooming requirements are minimal, with only weekly brushing needed. This breed may have a low activity level, but still enjoys playtime with its owners.
9. Ragdoll
The ragdoll is a larger breed with a relaxed temperament, making them perfect for families. Their fur is long and silky, requiring weekly grooming sessions. The breed is known for their love of human interaction and enjoys the company of children.
Though they are not as active as some cats, they still require playtime and exercise. Ragdolls are a great option for families who want a laid-back cat with a loving personality.
10. Scottish Fold
Scottish fold is one of the best cat breeds for families with children. Its calm and relaxed demeanor makes it an excellent choice for households with a busy lifestyle. This breed is characterized by its folded ears, which make it look adorable.
Scottish folds are affectionate and crave attention from their owners. Grooming requirements are minimum, as they have short hair that doesn’t shed much. They enjoy lounging and playing with toys, but are not very energetic. Scottish folds form strong bonds with their owners and love being around them.
They are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. Overall, the scottish fold is an excellent cat breed for families with children, as it’s affectionate, gentle and low-maintenance.
11. Devon Rex
Devon rex is an ideal cat breed for families and kids. They are playful, affectionate and loyal. With their unique appearance and personality, they can easily win the hearts of everyone in the family. Devon rex cats have curly fur and are low-shedding, making them a great choice for those with allergies.
They require minimal grooming, and their coats are easy to maintain. When it comes to temperament, devon rex cats are active and playful, often seeking attention from their owners. They have a high energy level and love to play with toys.
So, if your family and kids are looking for a companion that is affectionate and playful, devon rex can be the cat breed for you!
12. Burmese
Burmese is a well-suited breed for families with children. They are playful and love attention. Their affectionate nature makes them a good companion for kids. Burmese are also low maintenance, only requiring weekly grooming. They have a moderate activity level so indoor playtime is perfect for them.
13. Tonkinese
The tonkinese cat breed is perfect for families and kids with its loving and social temperament. They are highly intelligent and playful, making them great companions for children. Grooming requirements for tonkinese are minimal due to their short, low-maintenance coat.
They are also highly active cats that love to play and explore their environment. Overall, the tonkinese is a great cat breed for those looking for a charming and affectionate feline companion that is perfect for children.
14. Bengal
Bengal cats are known for their energetic and affectionate nature. They bond closely with their families, making them an excellent choice for households with children. These cats have a distinctive coat that resembles a wild leopard, but they are actually quite easy to care for.
The bengal’s grooming requirements are minimal, thanks to their short, low-maintenance coat. This breed also has a high activity level and loves to play. Bengals are known for their athleticism and love to climb, so it is important to provide them with plenty of opportunities for exercise.
Overall, the bengal is a great choice for families who want a playful, people-oriented cat that is easy to care for.
15. Siberian
Siberian cats are one of the best breeds for families and kids due to their gentle and playful nature. Their soft, thick fur requires grooming every few days, but they are low-shedding and hypoallergenic. These cats are active and love to play, but also enjoy lounging and cuddling with their loved ones.
They are intelligent and easy to train, making them the perfect addition to any household. Additionally, their sociable and affectionate temperament makes them great with children. Overall, if you’re looking for a loving and playful addition to your family, a siberian cat might be the perfect fit.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing the best cat breed for your family and kids is not an easy decision. Each breed has its own unique traits and characteristics that can make it perfect for one family but not suitable for another. However, by considering factors such as temperament, activity level, and lifespan, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect match for your family.
Whether you opt for a playful and active breed like the abyssinian or a lap cat like the persian, adding a furry feline friend to your household can bring love, joy, and companionship for years to come. Just remember to take the time to research and prepare for your new addition, and you’ll be rewarded with a loyal and loving companion for life.
