Cat Breeds

Cuddly and Cute - Cat Breeds that are best for Kids

If you have kids, then you will want a cat that does well with kids. You don't want any animal that has any aggression issues. There are 9 cats that pet owners and veterinarians all agree are best for children.

Abyssinian: The Abyssinian has a distinctly ticked, tawny coat. The tail and paws show tabby markings. They have beautiful eyes that are lined with dark fur around them and large ears. The coat is generally a warm golden color, gray, or cinnamon red. These are active and very playful cats, and are very curious and friendly. Not much of a lap cat, these animals will enjoy exploring and any playing a lot. Many toys and cathouses and gyms will be needed to keep these guys busy. If not entertained they can become depressed.

American and Exotic Shorthair: American and Exotic Shorthair cats will be gentle kitties. They love to play with children and are very common. They come in all shapes and sizes and a vast array of colors. These cats are good natured and relaxed. They get along with other cats and dogs as well. These cats are also more likely to think they are people and will bond great with all family members. They tend to be gentle with small children and don't tend to scratch as much as other breeds do.

Birman: A large, long stocky cat. It has long silky hair, not as thick as that of the Persian, and is of a texture that doesn't mat. The color of the coat is light, preferably with a golden cast, as if misted with gold. Birmans are gentle, active, and playful, but quiet and unobtrusive if you are busy with other things. This is a great cat for kids.

Burmese: These are great cats in the hair department. They have a silky short coat that doesn't need more than a good petting as far as grooming goes. They are clumsy and playful and stay that way throughout their lives. These are also very vocal cats and will talk to you and each other a lot. They are the life of the party and great for entertainment.

Maine Coon: The Maine Coon is well known for its loving nature. They are very friendly, playful and intelligent. They love to explore and play with toys. These cats have longer hair and do require grooming to keep it soft and unmated. They are vocal and love to shower their owners with meows. Maine Coons are also great with other cats and dogs too.

Manx: The interesting thing about these cats it their tails, or lack thereof. They come in a range of colors, shapes, and sizes. They also can be found with long or short hair, and a variety of tail lengths. Some have no tail at all, some have varying lengths of a nub, and others seem to have a normal tail. They love kids and get along with just about any other animal.

Persian: Persians are the most popular cat breeds today. They have long fluffy fur and squished little faces. They do need regular grooming to keep their coats free of matting and hairballs. They love children. Persians are most at home in an atmosphere of security and peace and quiet, but with love and reassurance, can easily adapt to the most active of households. Their quiet, melodious voices are pleasant and non-abrasive. They communicate delightfully with their large eyes and make perfect pets for all ages.

Ragdoll: Ragdolls adore their owners. They run to greet you at the door, follow you everywhere, lie on you, sleep with you, and love you. They seem to worship the ground you walk on. They are gentle, carefully avoid scratching people, and are good with children, the elderly, and dogs. Ragdolls tend not to jump. They feel that humans prefer purrs to yowls, and keep their voices soft.

Somali: The Somali is an amazing cat to look at. It looks a lot like a little fox, with its large ears, masked face, full ruff and bushy tail. They have soft voices and are usually quiet. They love their owners and adore children. They love to play and nuzzle their owners. They are the true lap cat, and love attention.

These are the most common cats among parents and cat owners. These have been known to live best with kids. That's not to say that another cat won't do just as well, but these do best.