25 Greatest Cat Breeds for Kids

These cat breeds not only do well with kids, but they can also enrich their lives.

25 Greatest Cat Breeds for Kids

There’s a special emotional connection that happens between kids and animals. Cats are excellent starter pets because they teach kids about patience, responsibility and love. By having a cat, kids learn about caring for someone other than themselves, how to treat animals with kindness and how to learn about respecting other living creatures.

Cats who are good with children should be gentle, laid-back, playful and affectionate. If they get spooked at the slightest noise or have negative reactions when something unexpected happens, they’re probably not a good candidate to be a child’s pet. With all of this in mind, these are 25 cat breeds that do well with kids.

Abyssinian

One of the things you want in a cat is one who can keep up with your kids, and that’s the Abyssinian. They’re energetic, playful and people-orientated. These dudes are never boring and will keep your family engaged and entertained for a long time.

Abyssinians are a good fit for families whose children are ages six and up. It won’t take long for an Abyssinian to become a trusted member of the family.

Abyssinian Summary

American Curl

It takes a lot to upset an American Curl cat because they’re so good-natured and friendly. They get along with other pets and people. They’re great companions for kids because they match their energy levels.

American Curl cats need to move their bodies and exercise daily. They love to jump, run and climb. They might not be lap cats, but you know they care because they’ll sit next to you when it’s time to rest from all their activity.

American Curl Summary

American Shorthair

American Shorthair cats are a good choice to have around kids because they’re easy-going, placid even, and robust. You could even call them sturdy. American Shorthair cats tend to live a long time, which is a very good thing.

American Shorthair cats will be your child’s good buddy as they’re pleasant, affectionate and like to play. Best of all, they’re low maintenance, so your child can learn about the responsibility of having a pet without it getting too complicated.

American Shorthair Summary

Bengal

Here’s another cat who has no problem keeping up with high-energy kids. Bengals are extremely energetic, intelligent, sweet and active. They’re happiest when they’re playing fetch, chasing a string or pouncing on a toy mousie.

One thing that Bengal cats and kids have in common is that they’re both very curious and want to learn everything about each other and the world.

Bengal Summary

Birman

Birman cats are so beautiful, you’d think they’d be content just lounging around admiring themselves, but the truth is, they enjoy being around their humans. The more time spent together, the closer your child and the Birman cat will be.

They’re easy to handle, gentle, affectionate, and once bonded, a Birman cat will be your kid’s pal for life.

Birman Summary

Bombay

Bombay cats are like children in that they’re fast learners and pick up things quickly. They’re outgoing, intelligent and can easily adapt to a busy family’s lifestyle. Bombay cats tend to get along with every age group.

It’s no surprise that a cat as smart as a Bombay can be walked on a leash, play fetch and catch onto any game.

Bombay Summary

British Shorthair

Everything is fine and dandy with British Shorthair cats and the younger members of your family as long as no one tries to pick them up. British Shorthair cats want to be everybody’s friend, and they are happy to provide companionship for anyone in need of one.

These dudes are laid-back, sociable with all ages, and bonus, they don’t mind living in a busy and noisy household.

British Shorthair Summary

Burmese

One thing that’s very appealing to parents about Burmese cats is that they stay frisky, fun and playful for much of their life. These cats are great companion cats who crave a lot of contact with their humans.

Burmese cats are always up to something and can help keep your children entertained. They’re playful, sweet-natured, and no one is ever bored with these cats around.

Burmese Summary

Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex cats are among the best breeds for children because of how friendly, outgoing and active they are. They have a real way with children, and any attention a child wants to give them, they’re happy to receive.

Cornish Rex cats are the perfect playmate for your child because they don’t have temper tantrums, stay cool and love to play.

Cornish Rex Summary

Devon Rex

If you’re searching for a cat that’ll make an excellent addition to your family and one who’s a natural with children, then you want a Devon Rex cat. They’re like nannies in feline form in the way that they care for children.

Devon Rex cats are super smart and adept at learning new things. When someone comes home from school or work, the Devon Rex is there to greet them. If your child needs extra comforting at bedtime, the Devon Rex will snuggle under the covers with them, making them feel safe and cozy.

Devon Rex Summary

Exotic Shorthair

They may look a little grumpy or like sticks in the mud, but Exotic Shorthair cats are tons of fun. They’re playful, snuggly, friendly and sweet. If it’s playing, running around and having a good time that your child needs, this is your cat.

Surprisingly affectionate, these cats don’t like to be left alone for too long and would much rather have a playdate with your child than a solo adventure.

Exotic Shorthair Summary

Havana Brown

Don’t even think about trying to trick the Havana Brown cat, as they’re always on their toes and alert. They’re intelligent, affectionate and even have a bit of a naughty streak. If loyalty in a pet is important to you, Havana Browns are unfailing in their devotion.

Havana Brown cats are universally friendly and get along with other cats, dogs and kids. They absolutely love hanging out with the family and interacting with their humans.

Havana Brown Summary

Himalayan

Himalayan cats may come off as a bit aloof at first, and that’s OK. Not everybody can be instant best friends. Learning how to build up trust in a relationship is a good skill for anybody to have. Once a Himalayan has bonded with their family members, they’re the sweetest and most chill cat ever.

Himalayans love a warm lap for a cozy nap, so when your kids are watching their shows, your Himalayan will likely be curled up in their laps or sleeping right next to them.

Himalayan Summary

Japanese Bobtail

When talking about Japanese Bobtail cats, most people mention how fantastic they are with kids. This must be because of these cats’ playful and sweet personalities and how happy they are when they’re active.

A Japanese Bobtail prefers interactive games with their humans, so they sometimes initiate play by bringing whoever is nearby toys and alerting them that they’re in the mood for a playdate. Other favorite pastimes of the Japanese Bobtail include jumping, pouncing and wrestling.

Japanese Bobtail Summary

Maine Coon

There’s definitely more to love with these cats, as they’re big, beautiful and friendly. People who have Maine Coon cats tend to want more of them, especially if there are kids in the family. Maine Coon cats love to play and are very active.

They are especially good for kids because they’re patient, affectionate and adaptable. They’re not super clingy or needy, though still people-orientated. If they get annoyed, the Maine Coon cat will remain calm and won’t strike out in anger.

Maine Coon Summary

Manx

Manx cats like to look on the bright side. Sure, they don’t have a tail, but then there’s no temptation or opportunity for little hands to pull on it. Manx cats make terrific family cats, as they’re affectionate, even-tempered and active.

These cats with their dog-like personalities enjoy playing fetch, hunting prey (even the stuffed animal variety) and indulging in their fascination with water.If you hear splashing, it could be the Manx cat in your sink taking a bath.

Manx Summary

Persian

Persian cats are gorgeous — there’s no denying that, but are they too delicate for kids? Not necessarily. These cats are affectionate, gentle and have a quiet personality, and while they may not enjoy loud environments, they do like humans of all ages.

Persian cats are wonderful for older kids who can handle the responsibility of caring for these beauties. They’re not low-maintenance, as they do need to be groomed on a fairly regular basis, but brushing and combing can be a way for your child to bond with a Persian cat.

Persian Summary

Ragamuffin

What kid wouldn’t want one of these big balls of fluff? Added incentive to get your child a Ragamuffin cat might be the fact that they adore being held and loved on. Instead of squirming and trying to wriggle out of a pair of arms, Ragamuffin cats melt into them.

More than one person has commented that Ragamuffin cats are more like puppies than cats because they’re trainable, adept at playing fetch, fantastic at learning new tricks and even enjoy going out for walks.

Ragamuffin Summary

Ragdoll

Ragdolls are the kind of cats that are good for everybody. They’re sweet, friendly and have an amiable personality. If a cat can have good manners, then Ragdolls do. They’re relatives to the Ragamuffin cats and have the same behavior when they’re picked up — they go limp like a ragdoll.

These cats are good at sensing what their human pals need from them. If playing will relieve stress, then the Ragdoll is ready to play, or if touch is what’s needed, then the Ragdoll is ready for some mutual showing of affection.

Ragdoll Summary

Scottish Fold

People love Scottish Folds, and Scottish Folds love people. It’s more of a mutual admiration society than a cat and its owner. Scottish Folds are fantastic with kids, probably because they blossom when they get oodles of attention.

They’re moderately active and will be ready to play when your child comes home from school or the playground. The Scottish Fold’s favorite kind of toys are those that test both their physical and mental agility. Swatting at a string can be fun, but your Scottish Fold wants something more challenging like a puzzle toy or a treat maze.

Scottish Fold Summary

Selkirk Rex

Selkirk Rex cats may look like they got up on the wrong side of the bed, but they’re one of the gentlest, friendliest and big-hearted cats. They like everybody as long as they’re treated with respect.

These cats are a good fit for families who move around, as they can be trained to be good travelers. Selkirk Rex cats can turn an unfamiliar environment into a safe place for kids just by being there.

Selkirk Rex Summary

Siamese

There’s a reason why so many people love Siamese cats — they’re so gosh darn entertaining and beautiful. Siamese cats not only enjoy children, but they tend to be very tolerant of them. These cats give a lot of leeway to kids that they wouldn’t give to adults.

Siamese cats aren’t shy about their need for attention, and kids are great at giving it to them. Kids and Siamese cats learn so many things from each other that adults can’t comprehend; it’s almost as if they share a secret language.

Siamese Summary

Siberian

An easy way to remember some of the top qualities of a Siberian cat is F.L.A.P., which stands for friendly, loyal, affectionate and playful. Admittedly, they have many other fantastic traits such as being beautiful, laid-back and snuggly, but that would make the acronym too long.

Siberians have mastered the art of chill, and they love kids, even the enthusiastic ones. Siberian cats get very attached and will follow their human around, waiting for the chance to cuddle up with them.

Siberian Summary

Sphynx

When people think about what they’d want in a cat for their kids, they’d probably say a cat that was lively, outgoing and kind-hearted, and that’s the Sphynx to a T. These cats may have fuzz instead of fur and may look different than most other cats, but that doesn’t mean they’re not super affectionate and cuddly.

The Sphynx cat craves attention, affection and warmth, and who better to provide that than a child? A Sphynx cat can help a child learn that different is a good thing, and it’s the love you give that makes you beautiful.

Sphynx Summary

Tonkinese

Tonkinese cats are easy to love, easy to care for and easy to be around. They have many of the same fine qualities as other cats, as they’re curious, affectionate and playful, but what makes them stand out is how they’re all that and more. Tonkinese cats have a funny side to their personality, so they’re quite goofy and entertaining.

Tonkinese cats love being close with their humans, especially the little ones of a family. Their behavior adapts to their mood. If they’re feeling wacky, they might clown around deliberately trying to make the family laugh, or if they’re feeling more relaxed, then they’ll curl up in a lap and take a nap.