7+ Most Kid-Friendly Cat Breeds (2024)

Are you considering getting a cat but concerned about how they’ll get along with your children? You need not be afraid. Many cat breeds are known to be friendly and gentle with young people.

Some cats almost seem to be designed for homes with young children roaming around. But which breeds are the friendliest to children?

This article has compiled a list of the top 12 cat breeds that will be great companions for you and your children. So, let’s get started and find your family the perfect new member!

What To Look For In A Kid-Friendly Cat Breed

When you’re searching for a cat that will be great with kids, there are a few critical tips on how to look for the right cat breed for you and your kids; find them below; 

• Before making a decision, conducting research is the first crucial step. Make sure to choose a breed known for being pleasant and friendly.  
• The cat’s level of energy is another thing to take into consideration. While some cats are content to sleep most of the day, others require a lot of playtime and activity. An active breed can be the best choice for your family if you have lively kids that enjoy running around and playing. 
• When choosing one for your children, the cat’s grooming requirements should also be considered. Daily brushing and maintenance of long-haired breeds may not be feasible if you have young children or a busy schedule. 
• When choosing a cat breed, consider any allergies or sensitivities within your family. Some cat breeds are better suited for people with allergies or respiratory problems than others because they produce less dander.

12 Most Kid-Friendly Cat Breeds

If you are wondering if there are cats that are friendly enough to accommodate the excesses of children, here are the top 12 cat breeds that are very friendly;

1. Abyssinian

Abyssinian cats are an excellent choice for families with kids looking for an energetic, playful, and loyal pet. These beautiful cats have long, slender bodies with strikingly beautiful coats that come in various colors like cinnamon, ruddy, blue, and fawn.

Abyssinian cats have a high energy level. They love to play and run around the house, so they’ll ensure your little ones always find a furry friend to keep them entertained.

And don’t be surprised if you see your Abyssinian cat jumping up high on furniture or climbing on shelves – they enjoy using their agility skills! Another thing we love about Abyssinian cats is that they’re highly intelligent animals.

They can quickly learn tricks such as fetch or even play hide-and-seek, providing endless entertainment for children and adults alike. Abyssinian is an active breed perfect for kids who may want a fun companion. 

2. Devon Rex Cats

Devon Rex cats are a perfect choice for families with children. Their playful and energetic nature makes them great companions for kids.

They come with short curly hair that requires minimal grooming, most suitable for busy parents. Devon Rex cats also love to play fetch, hide-and-seek, and chase games which can keep your little ones entertained throughout the day.

Devon Rex cats are intelligent and affectionate pets who enjoy cuddles from their human family members. They thrive on attention and often follow their owners around like shadows.

They are adaptable to new situations; this makes them fit into any household routine without causing stress. If they receive enough love, care, food, and exercise, these kitties will be happy wherever they live.

Another significant aspect of Devon Rex cats is that they get along well with other animals in the house, including dogs and cats. This friendly trait makes them perfect additions to multi-pet households.

Devon rex is an excellent cat breed for families with children due to its loving nature towards people of all ages and its being playful yet low maintenance at the same time!

3. Bengal Cats

Bengal cats are famous for families with children because of their playful and energetic personalities. They are known to be loyal, affectionate, and highly intelligent companions that quickly bond with their human family members.

These cats have striking markings that make them stand out from other breeds. Their sleek, muscular bodies also give them an exotic look that many kids find fascinating.

Bengals require moderate exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They love interactive toys that challenge their agility and hunting instincts, so playing with your Bengal can be fun for kids and adults alike.

While they may have a reputation for being high-strung, proper socialization from a young age can help Bengals become well-adjusted pets in any household. With patience and consistency in training, these feline friends can make excellent additions to any kid-friendly home.

4. Burmese Cats

Burmese cats are known for their love of playtime and affectionate nature, which makes them an ideal breed for children. These highly intelligent cats thrive on human interaction, making them a great addition to any family home.

They have a reputation for being some of the most social cats breeds. They crave attention from their owners and will often follow them around the house just to be close by. This means they make great companions for kids who want a furry friend to hang out with.

We love that they have a playful side that will keep young ones entertained. Burmese cats love playing with toys, especially those that stimulate their natural hunting instincts, like feathers on strings or laser pointers.

In addition, Burmese cats are generally very healthy animals. Hence, you will have no problem with them when they finally become a family member. 

5. Maine Coon Cats

Maine Coon cats are a popular breed for families with children. These large and gentle giants have a reputation for being one of the most kid-friendly cat breeds. One reason Maine Coons are great for kids is their playful nature.

They love to play games and chase toys, making them perfect companions for active children. Maine is also known for their patient demeanor, which is excellent for a household with kids. They have a calm, laid-back personality that can quickly adapt to different environments, including homes with energetic kids.

Maine Coon cats also tend to be very loyal and affectionate towards their human family members. They enjoy snuggling up next to their owners and often follow them around the house seeking attention and affection.

In addition, Maine Coons are known for being good with other pets like dogs or even smaller animals like hamsters or rabbits. This makes them an ideal choice for families who already have other pets in the home.

6. Siamese

Siamese cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world and for a good reason. They have a unique appearance with their pointed ears, almond-shaped eyes, and sleek bodies.

But beyond their looks, Siamese cats make great pets for kids. These cats are known for being very social and affectionate towards their owners. They enjoy snuggling up on laps or playing games with their humans.

This makes them ideal companions for children who love to play and cuddle with pets. They are known to be highly intelligent and can be curious. They also love to explore new places in the house, and you may find them trying to figure out how the things in the homework. This means they can keep kids entertained for hours with their playful antics.

Siamese cats can be quite vocal compared to other breeds, depending on what they want or need. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and curious pet for your child to grow up alongside, a Siamese cat could be the perfect choice!

7. Ragamuffin Cats

Ragamuffin cats are known for their sweet and affectionate personalities, making them great companions for children. These gentle giants can weigh up to 20 pounds, but their large size doesn’t stop them from being one of the most docile cat breeds.

Ragamuffins have a soft and fluffy coat that makes them irresistible to pet. They come in white, cream, blue, chocolate, and more colors. Their gorgeous looks and calm temperament make them perfect lap cats.

Ragamuffin cats love attention from humans, and they are very patient with children who may want to play with them or cuddle next to them while watching TV or being involved in an activity.

Ragamuffin is a suitable cat companion for families looking for one for their kids.  Just remember that, like all pets, they require proper care and attention, so research before bringing one home.

8. Birman Cats

Birman cats are among the most adorable and gentle cat breeds, making them perfect companions for kids. They are known for their affectionate personalities and love to spend time with their owners.

One unique trait of Birman cats is their striking blue eyes, making them even more appealing to children. Their silky fur is another feature that makes them irresistible to cuddle with.

Birman cats are calm and enjoy being held and petted by their human friends. They also get along well with other pets in the household, making them great additions to any family dynamic.

We also love that Birman are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. While they shed a bit, their coat does not require daily brushing like some other long-haired breeds need. This cat breed is the sweet-natured furry friend who will be patient with your children. You should bring them into your home! 

9. Scottish Fold Cats

Scottish Fold cats are known for their unique appearance, with their folded ears that make them look like they’re wearing a permanent hat. They are also quite affectionate and friendly towards children, making them an ideal choice for families looking to adopt a cat.

Scottish fold cats have a gentle nature, and they enjoy spending time with their human companion. They enjoy being held and cuddled, which makes them great lap cats for kids who want to snuggle up next to them while watching TV or reading a book.

However, it’s worth noting that Scottish Folds can be prone to health issues related to their ear structure. Choosing a reputable breeder who tests their cats for genetic disorders is essential before adopting one.

If you’re looking for an adorable and mellow cat breed that will get along well with your kids, then the Scottish Fold might be just what you need in your home!

10. Japanese Bobtail Cats

Japanese Bobtail cats are a unique and playful breed that makes them perfect for kids. Their distinct bobbed tails and friendly personalities make them one of the families’ most popular cat breeds.

These cats are known for their high energy levels, which means they love to play and interact with their human companions. Japanese Bobtails are active and incredibly intelligent, making them easy to train.

They are also social creatures. They love to be around people and other pets in the house. If you have other pets in your home, then the Japanese bobtail is an excellent choice for your home. 

One thing that sets Japanese Bobtail cats apart from other breeds is their affinity for water. These cats love splashing around in the water or jumping into a bathtub while it’s still filled! If you’re looking for a kid-friendly cat, a playful and friendly breed, look no further than the charismatic Japanese Bobtail. 

11. Manx Cats

Manx cats are known for their unique feature of having no tail or a short stub. This breed is perfect for families who want an active and playful cat that can be affectionate with kids.

These cats have a muscular build and love to play games such as fetch, making them ideal companions for children who enjoy interactive play.

We love that they are intelligent and easy to train; you can ascertain that they will learn tricks like sitting on command or walking on a leach in no time. This makes them good pets for families that love to spend time outdoors. 

Manx love attention; hence they should be home with someone during the day. They are social and enjoy with humans and other animals as well. One thing to remember when adopting a Manx cat is that it can be prone to specific health issues due to its unique spine structure.

However, with proper care, these issues can often be managed effectively. In need of an active and friendly companion for your kids? Then Manx is the perfect addition to your home. 

12. British Shorthair Cats

British Shorthair cats are known for their calm temperament and affectionate nature, making them one of the most popular cat breeds for families with children. These cats have a sturdy build and round faces, giving them an adorable teddy bear-like appearance that kids will love.

British Shorthairs still enjoy playtime and bonding with their human companions despite their relaxed demeanor. They make great lap cats and often seek attention from their owners. Their gentle nature makes them well-suited to live in homes with other pets or young children.

British Shorthairs are generally healthy cats that require minimal grooming. This means less time worrying about your pet’s health or appearance and more time spent enjoying their company. Their sweet nature and low maintenance make the British shorthair perfect for your family. 

Final Thoughts 

If you intend to bring in a cat as a companion for your kids, there are many options. However, it’s important to remember that while these breeds may be more suitable for children, each cat is an individual with unique personalities and needs.

It’s important to research and get to know any potential pet before bringing them into your home.

Always supervise young children around cats and teach them how to interact with them safely. With love, patience, and proper care, any cat breed can make wonderful family pets for years.