If you’re considering getting a cat and have children, it’s important to know which cat breeds are suitable for families. It’s crucial that your new cat is calm, friendly, and affectionate. Here are 9 ideal family cats.
1. Maine Coon
Maine Coons are gentle, cheerful, and playful. This cat breed is also highly intelligent and enjoys fun games, and they can even play fetch. An ideal playmate for you and your children. However, they can be a bit shy and reserved. Maine Coons always need some time to adjust to new people and situations, so be patient. Their curiosity always wins, and they quickly explore or come to greet visitors. Furthermore, Maine Coons are social, affectionate, and love cuddling.
Every cat needs a scratching post. Looking for one? This Maine Coon cat tree is perfect for the needs and character of this breed.
2. British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are super easygoing – they are calm, social, and love being with ‘their people.’ That’s why these cats fit perfectly in a family with children. The greatest advantage of this cat breed is their adaptability. British Shorthairs are okay with nearly everything, as long as they can adjust to something new at their own pace – be it a fellow cat, a dog, or visitors. Oh, and a British Shorthair can also handle being alone quite well.
3. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are exceptionally beautiful cats – they are delightfully large and have a beautiful, soft coat, perfect for cuddling. But do they enjoy it? Yes! Even better, Ragdolls are specially bred for their cuddle qualities because these purebred cats love being lifted. And because they completely surrender themselves during cuddling, they are also named after a ragdoll. Add to that the gentle nature of this cat breed, and you’ve found the ideal family cat!
Looking for a scratching post that will truly delight your Ragdoll? Choose a Ragdoll scratching post, specifically designed for this breed!
4. Birman
If you want a cat that’s always in balance, intelligent, and adores its owners, then a Birman might be your ideal cat. Especially if you have children, as this cat breed is peaceful, gentle, and very tolerent. That’s quite handy when you have kids. However, it doesn’t mean children can do anything to them, of course. A Birman, just like any other cat, appreciates being treated with love and respect. But if you do that, your family will gain a lifelong friend.
5. Siamese
Siamese Siamese cat with blue eyes Siamese cats strongly bond with the group they live with. They feel connected to their fellow cats, as well as to other animals and their owners. This cat breed is exceptionally smart, active, and enjoys playing. This makes them a great choice if you have children. Do your children love cuddling with animals? Then Siamese cats are a good match because they adore attention. If they don’t get enough, they will simply ask for it, as they are excellent at communicating. However, be aware that Siamese cats are sensitive and can be startled by unexpected movements and loud noises. So, it’s important to teach your children to handle the cat gently.
6. Tonkinese
A Tonkinese cat is a crossbreed of a Siamese and a Burmese and shares many child-friendly qualities with these two breeds. With the right upbringing, this cat breed can also be a fantastic family cat. Tonkinese cats are intelligent, active, enjoy playing, and are great at fetching. They have a lot of love to give and are fond of “their people.” They will often show their affection. If you don’t give them attention, be prepared because a Tonkinese won’t rest until you’ve given them a hug or a pet.
7. Persian Cat
A Persian cat is calm and very friendly, as well highly affectionate. However, Persians are not big fans of playing; they prefer lounging on your lap or taking beaty naps. If you’re looking for an active playmate for your kids, you might want to choose a different breed. But if you want a sweet and patient pet that your children can cuddle with, a Persian cat could become their new best friend.
8. American Bobtail
If you’re looking for a sweet and intelligent cat that gets along well with children, an American Bobtail might be the right choice for you. This cat breed is known for being calm and easygoing. They are active but not overly so. They also enjoy quietly observing everything happening around them. American Bobtails are playful, enjoy fetching, and love playing hide-and-seek with their owners or fellow cats. In short, an American Bobtail is a lovely cat that fits well in a family.
9. Ragamuffin
Ragamuffins aren’t very well known, but once you get to know this cat breed, you may never want anything else. Ragamuffins are incredibly sweet and easy to get along with, partly because they are descended from Ragdolls, which is another sweet breed. Ragamuffins are up for almost anything and are very easygoing. Playing? Sure. Cuddling? Absolutely. Visitors and children? All good. They make fantastic family cats, although they can be a bit too trusting at times. It’s better to keep a Ragamuffin as an indoor cat because they can be easily taken by others.
Have you found your ideal family cat? Or would you like to see more fun cat breeds? Check out our blog about cat breeds, where we share everything about them!
Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a veterinarian or behavior expert. All content, information, and tips on this blog are meant to inspire you and provide information. If your cat has any issues or problems, and you’re unsure about your cat’s health, always consult a veterinarian or a behavior expert.