Discover the 10 Cat Breeds Perfect for Families with Children

Cats make a great addition to any family looking to add a pet to their home. Although adopting a cat from a shelter is probably one of the best options, many families would prefer to have a purebred kitty in their home. With small children, it can be difficult to determine which cats will be the most patient. Luckily, some breeds generally do better than others. If you’re thinking about which purebreds make the best pets for children, check out this list below.

#1 – Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is bred specifically to be both patient and loving. This breed’s temperament is ideal for small children, because their key personality trait is their ability to go limp when picked up. These sweet cats act just like their breed name!

#2 – Abyssinian

Abyssinians are beautiful short-coated cats with excellent temperaments. They are very playful and intelligent and make wonderful family companions.

#3 – Maine Coon

These gentle giants make great companions for families with small children. Although somewhat reserved around strangers, this breed is loyal to its family and its gentle disposition makes it ideal for families with children and other animals, including dogs.

#4 – Birman

These beautiful cats make ideal family companions as they are very easy to handle and have gentle dispositions. They actively seek attention and are very playful, making them idea for small children.

#5 – American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is known for being a very low-maintenance cat with an easy-going temperament. They get along well with children and even dogs. American Shorthairs are known for both their robust demeanor and their overall health and longevity.

#6 – British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is not the most playful of cats, but the breed sports an excellent temperament and is very easy going around people. They are docile and patient and make great companions for families with small children.

#7 – Manx

This tailless breed is very devoted to its family and is highly intelligent and playful. In fact, many people compare the Manx to dogs as they are known for their love for fetching toys for their owners. They are very outgoing and make great companions for small children.

#8 – Burmese

These beautiful cats are known for maintaining a playful, kitten-like personality throughout their lives. They are very affectionate towards people and form strong bonds with their families, just like dogs.

#9 – Siamese

Although often viewed as less friendly than other cats, the Siamese is very social and intelligent. They are very playful and affectionate and are also known for having more dog-like personalities.

#10 – Persian

Persians are relatively quiet cats, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love their people. In fact, in a study found in Companion Animals & Us: Exploring the Relationships Between People & Pets, Persians were found to be more affectionate and friendly towards their families and strangers than non-pedigreed cats.