Cats are known for their independence, affection, and playful personalities, making them wonderful pets for families. When selecting the best cat breed for a household with children, it’s essential to consider temperament, energy levels, and tolerance for playful (sometimes a bit too rough) handling. Some cat breeds naturally get along well with kids, making them ideal companions for a family setting. Here are some of the best cat breeds for families with children:
1. Ragdoll
Temperament: Gentle, Affectionate, Laid-back
Energy Level: Moderate
Best For: Families with young children
Ragdolls are famous for their calm demeanor and affectionate nature. Often described as “puppy-like,” these cats tend to follow their human companions around the house and love being held and cuddled. Their placid, patient temperament makes them perfect for children who might enjoy frequent snuggles. Despite their large size, they’re non-aggressive and have a gentle approach to interaction, making them a great addition to family homes.
2. Maine Coon
Temperament: Sociable, Playful, Friendly
Energy Level: Moderate
Best For: Active households with space for play
The Maine Coon is one of the largest domestic cat breeds, but don’t let their size fool you—they’re gentle giants. Known for their friendly and sociable personalities, Maine Coons often get along well with children and other pets. They are playful without being overly energetic, which is perfect for kids who enjoy spending time playing with their pets but also like to relax. Their hardy build also makes them less fragile than smaller breeds, allowing them to tolerate children’s sometimes clumsy handling better.
3. Siamese
Temperament: Vocal, Intelligent, Affectionate
Energy Level: High
Best For: Families with older, more active children
Siamese cats are one of the most social and vocal cat breeds. Known for their striking blue eyes and sleek, muscular bodies, they love being in the middle of family activities. Siamese cats bond closely with their owners and often follow them around, making them great companions for children who enjoy a more interactive and energetic pet. They thrive in busy households but need plenty of mental stimulation and engagement. If your family enjoys playing with their pets, the Siamese will love being part of the fun.
4. Abyssinian
Temperament: Curious, Active, Adventurous
Energy Level: High
Best For: Families with energetic children
The Abyssinian is one of the most active and playful cat breeds, making them perfect for families with children who love to run, play, and explore. These cats are intelligent and curious and love to engage with their environment, often following their human companions around the house and investigating new things. Abyssinians enjoy climbing and need interactive toys to stay entertained. They also tend to form strong bonds with children and enjoy engaging in playtime, making them a great match for high-energy families.
5. Birman
Temperament: Calm, Affectionate, Friendly
Energy Level: Moderate
Best For: Families with both young and older children
The Birman is a quiet, affectionate breed with a calm nature, making them perfect for families looking for a more relaxed pet. They are friendly without being too demanding and are known for being particularly good with children. Birmans love spending time with their human family members and often seek out affection, but they are not overly energetic, so they’re a great fit for families that want a companion that’s happy to both play and relax.
6. Scottish Fold
Temperament: Sweet, Mellow, Easygoing
Energy Level: Low to Moderate
Best For: Families with toddlers or young children
Scottish Folds are known for their distinct folded ears and gentle, sweet nature. They tend to be low-key and enjoy being in a calm, peaceful environment, making them an excellent choice for families with young children. These cats are highly tolerant and can adapt well to the unpredictable nature of children’s play. They prefer staying near their family and are happy to engage in play or sit quietly with their human companions.
7. Burmese
Temperament: Playful, Curious, Affectionate
Energy Level: High
Best For: Families that enjoy an interactive pet
Burmese cats are curious and lively, making them ideal for families that enjoy engaging with their pets. They are highly social and thrive on interaction, often seeking out attention from their family members, including children. Burmese cats are excellent playmates for kids because of their energetic and playful nature, but they also enjoy cuddles and affection when playtime is over. Their adaptability and affectionate disposition make them a great family pet.
8. Persian
Temperament: Calm, Affectionate, Patient
Energy Level: Low
Best For: Families looking for a laid-back companion
Persian cats are known for their luxurious long coats and their calm, easygoing personalities. They are not overly energetic, making them great for families that prefer a more laid-back pet. Persians are patient and tend to get along well with children who are gentle and calm themselves. Their love for cuddling makes them excellent companions for quieter moments, but their more sedentary nature means they aren’t ideal for highly active families.
9. Siberian
Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Adaptable
Energy Level: Moderate
Best For: Families with allergies
Siberian cats are hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for families with allergy concerns. Beyond their hypoallergenic qualities, Siberians are affectionate, playful, and social. They have a lot of energy but also enjoy downtime with their human companions. Their ability to adapt to new environments and personalities makes them a good fit for busy households with children.
10. Exotic Shorthair
Temperament: Laid-back, Affectionate, Friendly
Energy Level: Low to Moderate
Best For: Families who want a calm, easygoing pet
Exotic Shorthairs are often described as the short-haired version of the Persian cat, with similar calm and affectionate traits. They are easygoing and adaptable, making them a good fit for families with children. While they do enjoy playtime, Exotic Shorthairs are not overly energetic and are content with relaxed interaction, making them perfect for families who want a low-maintenance, calm pet.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a cat breed for a family with children, it’s essential to consider both the cat’s temperament and the family’s lifestyle. Active, social breeds like the Siamese and Abyssinian thrive in energetic households, while laid-back breeds like the Persian and Ragdoll are ideal for families looking for a more relaxed pet. Regardless of the breed, introducing children to the responsibilities of pet care and teaching them how to respect and properly handle a cat is key to fostering a positive relationship between the two.