A cat can be a wonderful family companion: playful enough to entertain children, affectionate enough to become part of everyday home life and independent enough to fit into a busy household. However, the best family cat is not simply the breed most often described as “good with kids.” The right match depends on the ages of the children, the noise and activity level in the home, the presence of other pets, the amount of adult supervision available and the personality of the individual cat.
Some breeds are known for being especially sociable, patient, adaptable or playful. Others may suit quieter families with older children who understand how to respect a cat’s boundaries. Mixed-ancestry domestic cats can also be outstanding family pets, especially when their temperament is already known through a foster home or shelter.
Quick Answer
Among the best cat breeds for families are the Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Birman, American Shorthair, Burmese, Bombay, American Curl, American Bobtail, Norwegian Forest Cat, Siberian, Abyssinian and British Shorthair. A well-socialized adult domestic shorthair or domestic longhair may be an equally good—or better—match when its personality is already known.
What Makes a Cat Good for a Family?
A family-friendly cat is not necessarily one that tolerates unlimited handling. Cats are living animals with preferences, fears and boundaries. A good family match is a cat whose temperament fits the household and whose needs the adults are prepared to supervise and meet.
Traits that often help a cat thrive in family life include:
- Confidence: A reasonably confident cat is less likely to be overwhelmed by ordinary footsteps, laughter, visitors and household movement.
- Adaptability: Family routines change. A cat that adjusts well to new schedules and gradual introductions may settle more easily.
- Sociability: Many families enjoy a cat that joins activities, greets familiar people and seeks appropriate interaction.
- Moderate tolerance for handling: A cat that accepts gentle petting, brushing and routine care may be easier for a family to manage.
- Playfulness: Interactive play can create positive bonds between cats and respectful children.
- Resilience: A cat that recovers after a mild surprise may cope better than a highly sensitive cat in a lively home.
- Clear communication: Cats that give understandable signals make it easier for adults and children to learn when interaction is welcome and when the cat needs space.
Family-Friendly Is a Two-Way Responsibility
The cat should be suitable for family life, but the family must also be suitable for the cat. Adults must teach children to use gentle hands, leave sleeping and eating cats alone, respect hiding places and stop interacting when the cat moves away.
Is Breed or Individual Personality More Important?
Breed can help families estimate likely coat care, body size, activity level, social style and vocal tendencies. For example, some breeds are commonly described as relaxed and affectionate, while others are highly active and require substantial daily enrichment.
However, breed does not guarantee behavior. A poorly socialized cat from a family-oriented breed may be fearful, while a mixed-ancestry shelter cat may be exceptionally patient and outgoing. Age, health, early handling, previous experiences and individual personality can be more important than pedigree.
For families with young children or other pets, an adult cat living in foster care can be particularly valuable. Foster caregivers may know whether the cat enjoys children, fears dogs, plays too roughly, becomes overstimulated during petting, guards food or prefers a quiet household.
A Known Temperament Can Be More Valuable Than a Famous Breed Name
A friendly adult domestic cat that has already lived successfully with children may be a safer and more predictable choice than a kitten from a breed described as family-friendly. Choose the individual cat in front of you, not only the breed description.
Children and Cats: What Families Need to Know
Babies and Toddlers
Babies and toddlers cannot reliably understand feline boundaries. All interactions require close adult supervision. The cat should have elevated resting areas and at least one child-free room or gated retreat where it can eat, sleep and use the litter box without being followed.
Never allow a child to corner, chase, sit on, hug tightly, pull the tail or carry a cat unsupervised. Even a gentle cat may scratch or bite when frightened or restrained.
Preschool and Elementary-Age Children
Young children can learn to sit quietly and invite the cat to approach. They can help toss toys, use a wand toy under supervision or place treats in a puzzle feeder. Adults should continue to supervise handling and teach children to stop when the cat’s tail lashes, ears flatten or body becomes tense.
Older Children and Teenagers
Older children may participate in feeding, grooming, play and litter-box care, but an adult must retain ultimate responsibility. A pet should never lose necessary care because a child becomes busy or loses interest.
Do Not Expect a Cat to “Put Up With” Children
A family cat needs protection from rough or relentless attention. Teaching children to respect an animal’s consent and body language is safer for everyone and helps build a more trusting relationship.
Is a Kitten or Adult Cat Better for a Family?
Kittens are lively, curious and appealing, but they are not always the easiest family choice. They climb, bite during play, race underfoot and require considerable supervision. Young kittens are also physically fragile and may be accidentally injured by a well-meaning child.
An adult cat has a more established personality. Shelters and foster homes may already know whether the cat is comfortable with children, tolerant of noise, playful without being rough and able to live with other animals.
| Consideration | Kitten | Adult Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Personality | Still developing | Usually easier to assess |
| Supervision | High | Varies, often lower |
| Fragility | More vulnerable to accidental injury | Usually physically sturdier |
| Play style | Often intense and mouthy | More predictable |
| Household habits | Still learning | May already have established habits |
| Best for | Families prepared for active supervision | Families wanting a more predictable match |
Questions Families Should Ask Before Choosing a Cat
- How old are the children, and how gently do they interact with animals?
- Is the home calm, moderately active or very busy?
- Will the cat regularly encounter visitors?
- Are there dogs, cats, birds, rabbits or other pets in the home?
- How long will the cat usually be alone?
- Does the family want a lap cat, playful companion or more independent pet?
- How much grooming can the adults reliably provide?
- Can the family afford routine veterinary care and emergencies?
- Is anyone bothered by frequent vocalizing or shedding?
- Can the home provide vertical space, scratching surfaces and protected quiet areas?
- Would an adult or senior cat be a better fit than a kitten?
Ask About the Cat’s Actual History
When possible, ask whether the cat has lived with children and what ages they were. “Good with children” can mean very different things. A cat comfortable with calm teenagers may not enjoy toddlers.
12 Best Cat Breeds for Families
The following breeds are often considered strong family companions because they tend to combine sociability, playfulness, adaptability or calm affection. They are not ranked. The best choice depends on the family’s schedule, children, other pets and preferences.
Maine Coon Cats
Large, playful and sociable cats with shaggy coats and a friendly, involved style of companionship.
Why families may love them: Maine Coons are often confident, interactive and interested in household activities. Many enjoy children, cat-friendly dogs and games such as fetch. Their substantial size may make them feel less physically delicate than a tiny kitten, although children must still handle them respectfully.
Activity and enrichment: They need sturdy climbing furniture, interactive play and room to stretch. Many remain playful well into adulthood and enjoy learning simple tricks.
Grooming: Their coat requires thorough combing several times each week, especially around the chest, belly and hindquarters.
Keep in mind: Maine Coons are large cats. Families need oversized carriers, litter boxes and scratching furniture, and should budget for higher food and veterinary costs.
Often a good match for: Active families, homes with respectful children, multi-pet households and people wanting a social cat.
Ragdoll Cats
Large, gentle cats known for their blue eyes, soft pointed coats and affectionate attachment to people.
Why families may love them: Many Ragdolls are calm, friendly and happy to remain close to family members. Their generally relaxed nature may suit homes where children understand how to approach gently and allow the cat to leave.
Activity and enrichment: Ragdolls enjoy play but are not usually among the most relentlessly active breeds. Wand toys, tunnels and low-to-moderate climbing structures help keep them fit.
Grooming: The semi-long coat needs regular combing to prevent tangles and remove loose hair.
Keep in mind: “Ragdoll” does not mean a cat should be carried like a toy. Some enjoy being held; others do not. Their trusting temperament does not make outdoor roaming safe.
Often a good match for: Gentle families, quieter homes, older children and owners wanting a close companion.
Birman Cats
Affectionate, softly spoken cats with blue eyes, pointed coloring and distinctive white feet.
Why families may love them: Birmans are commonly described as gentle, sociable and adaptable. They often enjoy family activity without being as noisy or intense as some highly demanding breeds.
Activity and enrichment: They appreciate daily play, puzzle toys and companionship. Many do well with another friendly pet when introductions are gradual.
Grooming: Their silky semi-long coat has relatively little undercoat, but it still benefits from consistent combing.
Keep in mind: Birmans may become lonely in homes where everyone is absent for very long days. They are best suited to families that want genuine interaction.
Often a good match for: Families with respectful children, multi-pet homes and households seeking a gentle, affectionate cat.
American Shorthair Cats
Adaptable, good-natured cats with a practical short coat and a balanced mix of affection and independence.
Why families may love them: American Shorthairs often cope well with ordinary household activity. They tend to enjoy play and companionship without requiring attention every moment of the day.
Activity and enrichment: Daily interactive play, climbing opportunities and food puzzles help prevent boredom and weight gain.
Grooming: Weekly brushing is usually adequate, with extra attention during seasonal shedding.
Keep in mind: Their calm, sturdy appearance can disguise gradual weight gain. Families should measure food and avoid allowing children to provide unlimited treats.
Often a good match for: Busy families, apartment households, homes with older adults and families wanting an adaptable all-round companion.
Burmese Cats
Warm, outgoing and people-focused cats that often retain a lively, kitten-like personality throughout adulthood.
Why families may love them: Burmese cats usually make their affection obvious. Many enjoy games, handling and being included in family routines, which can create strong bonds with older children.
Activity and enrichment: They need interactive play, teaching games and regular companionship. A Burmese may enjoy learning to fetch or following a treat puzzle.
Grooming: Their sleek short coat is easy to maintain.
Keep in mind: Burmese cats may dislike long periods alone and can be persistent when seeking attention. They are not the best choice for a family wanting a distant, highly independent pet.
Often a good match for: Affectionate families, home-based workers, older children and households with another compatible pet.
Bombay Cats
Glossy black cats with expressive eyes and a confident, affectionate, family-centered personality.
Why families may love them: Bombays are often sociable, playful and eager to join household activities. Their affection is usually easy to recognize, which can help children learn positive ways to interact with a cat.
Activity and enrichment: They enjoy active games, climbing and puzzle toys. They may follow family members from room to room.
Grooming: Their short coat is straightforward to maintain with weekly brushing.
Keep in mind: Bombays often prefer frequent companionship. A home in which everyone is gone most of the day may not suit an especially people-dependent individual.
Often a good match for: Sociable households, apartment families and people wanting a demonstratively affectionate cat.
American Curl Cats
Playful, people-oriented cats distinguished by ears that curve gently backward.
Why families may love them: American Curls are often adaptable, curious and friendly with children, visitors and cat-friendly dogs when introductions are appropriate. Many remain playful throughout life.
Activity and enrichment: They enjoy games, climbing and participation in everyday household life without usually being excessively vocal.
Grooming: Both shorthaired and longhaired varieties have relatively light undercoats. Regular gentle brushing is usually manageable.
Keep in mind: Their curved ears require careful handling. Children must never pull, flatten or force the cartilage backward.
Often a good match for: Families, multi-pet households and owners seeking an adaptable, playful companion.
American Bobtail Cats
Confident, intelligent cats with naturally shortened tails and a warm, companionable nature.
Why families may love them: American Bobtails are often playful, adaptable and interested in people. Many enjoy games, gentle training and living with respectful children or compatible pets.
Activity and enrichment: Puzzle toys, fetch games, supervised harness training and climbing furniture can satisfy their intelligence.
Grooming: Shorthaired cats need routine brushing, while longer coats require more frequent combing.
Keep in mind: They are social cats and may not enjoy being left alone for long stretches every day. Their natural tails vary in length and shape and should never be altered for appearance.
Often a good match for: Active families, multi-pet homes and owners wanting an intelligent, moderately energetic cat.
Norwegian Forest Cats
Large, athletic cats with water-resistant coats, climbing ability and a calm but independent family presence.
Why families may love them: Norwegian Forest Cats are often affectionate without being constantly demanding. Many enjoy observing family life from a perch and joining play when invited.
Activity and enrichment: They need strong, tall climbing furniture and opportunities to explore vertically. Their natural athleticism should not be underestimated.
Grooming: The long double coat needs regular combing, with extra work during seasonal shedding.
Keep in mind: They may be less tolerant of constant carrying than some lap-oriented breeds. Families should respect their preference for choosing when and how to interact.
Often a good match for: Families with older children, spacious homes, quieter multi-pet households and owners comfortable with coat care.
Siberian Cats
Powerful, affectionate cats with thick coats, impressive jumping ability and a playful, people-oriented temperament.
Why families may love them: Siberians are often confident, sociable and engaged with their families. Many enjoy children and other pets when properly introduced.
Activity and enrichment: They need sturdy climbing structures, energetic play and opportunities to use their intelligence.
Grooming: Their triple coat requires regular combing and can shed heavily at certain times of year.
Keep in mind: Siberians are sometimes promoted as hypoallergenic, but no cat is allergen-free. Family members with allergies should spend meaningful time with the individual cat before making a commitment.
Often a good match for: Active families, multi-pet homes and owners who enjoy both play and regular grooming.
Abyssinian Cats
Highly intelligent, athletic cats that enjoy climbing, exploring and participating in almost everything their families do.
Why families may love them: Abyssinians can be entertaining, curious and deeply involved in household life. Older children who enjoy teaching tricks and providing active play may form especially strong bonds with them.
Activity and enrichment: This breed needs substantial vertical territory, puzzle activities and interactive play. They are not usually content with a dull environment.
Grooming: Their short coat is easy to maintain.
Keep in mind: Abyssinians may be too active or easily bored for families wanting a quiet lap cat. Their environment must be enriched and safely cat-proofed.
Often a good match for: Active families, older children, experienced pet households and people who enjoy training and play.
British Shorthair Cats
Quiet, dignified cats with dense plush coats and a calm, undemanding style of companionship.
Why families may love them: British Shorthairs are often steady and content to stay near their people without demanding constant handling. They may suit busy but respectful homes and families with older children.
Activity and enrichment: They need daily play to prevent weight gain, even when they appear naturally relaxed.
Grooming: Their dense short coat benefits from weekly brushing and more frequent attention during shedding.
Keep in mind: Many dislike being carried or tightly hugged. They are better suited to children who can appreciate companionship without constant physical contact.
Often a good match for: Quiet families, apartments, older children and households wanting an affectionate but not overly demanding cat.
Domestic Shorthair and Domestic Longhair Cats
Mixed-ancestry cats available in an extraordinary range of colors, coat lengths, activity levels and personalities.
Why families may love them: A foster-based rescue can help match a family with an individual cat already known to enjoy children, tolerate dogs, use the litter box reliably and settle into household routines.
Activity and enrichment: Needs vary widely. This is an advantage because families can choose an individual whose energy level fits their home.
Grooming: Domestic shorthairs are usually easy to maintain. Domestic longhairs need regular combing, with frequency determined by coat texture and density.
Keep in mind: “Domestic cat” is not one predictable personality type. Ask detailed questions about the individual.
Often a good match for: Almost any responsible family when age, health, energy and temperament are carefully matched.
Family-Friendly Cat Breed Comparison Chart
| Cat | Typical Family Style | Activity | Coat Care | Often Good With Other Pets? | Important Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine Coon | Social and playful | Moderate | Moderate to high | Often | Large size and higher costs |
| Ragdoll | Gentle and affectionate | Low to moderate | Moderate | Often | Needs gentle handling |
| Birman | Warm and adaptable | Moderate | Moderate | Often | May dislike long periods alone |
| American Shorthair | Easygoing and balanced | Moderate | Low | Often | Watch weight |
| Burmese | Highly affectionate | Moderate to high | Low | Often | Strong companionship needs |
| Bombay | Outgoing and involved | Moderate | Low | Often | May be very people-dependent |
| American Curl | Playful and adaptable | Moderate | Low to moderate | Often | Handle ears gently |
| American Bobtail | Confident and interactive | Moderate | Low to moderate | Often | Needs companionship |
| Norwegian Forest Cat | Calm and independent | Moderate | High | Often | Needs vertical space |
| Siberian | Affectionate and athletic | Moderate to high | High | Often | No cat is allergen-free |
| Abyssinian | Busy and intelligent | High | Low | Often | Needs extensive enrichment |
| British Shorthair | Quiet and steady | Low to moderate | Low to moderate | Varies | May dislike being carried |
| Adult Domestic Cat | Depends on the individual | Low to high | Low to high | Can be selected for compatibility | Choose by known temperament |
These are broad tendencies, not guarantees. Individual temperament, socialization and previous experience remain essential.
Best Cats for Different Kinds of Families
Best for Families With Young Children
A confident adult domestic cat with a verified history around young children may be the safest choice. American Shorthairs, Maine Coons, Birmans and American Curls may also be suitable when the individual is well socialized and children are closely supervised.
Best for Families With Older Children
Older children can often enjoy more interactive breeds such as the Abyssinian, Burmese, Bombay, Siberian or American Bobtail. These cats may appreciate trick training, puzzle toys and energetic play.
Best for Quiet Families
British Shorthairs, Ragdolls, Norwegian Forest Cats and calm adult domestic cats may suit homes that prefer peaceful companionship. Individual personality remains important.
Best for Busy Families
An adaptable adult American Shorthair, British Shorthair, Russian Blue or suitable domestic cat may handle predictable periods alone better than a highly people-dependent breed. Even independent cats need daily interaction and enrichment.
Best for Families With Dogs
Maine Coons, Birmans, American Curls, American Bobtails and confident domestic cats often adapt well to cat-friendly dogs when introductions are gradual. The dog must be calm, controllable and free of unsafe chasing behavior.
Best for Multi-Cat Families
Birmans, Burmese, Maine Coons, Siberians and American Curls are often sociable, but no breed guarantees feline compatibility. Consider age, activity level and social style when matching cats.
Best for Families Wanting Low Grooming
American Shorthairs, Burmese, Bombays, Abyssinians and shorthaired domestic cats are among the easier coats to maintain. Shorthaired cats still shed and need occasional brushing.
Best for Families Wanting a Calm Lap Companion
Ragdolls, Birmans, Burmese and Bombays are often affectionate. Ask the foster caregiver or breeder whether the individual cat actually enjoys laps and handling.
Cats That May Require More Preparation in a Family Home
The following cats can live successfully in families, but their needs or physical characteristics deserve careful consideration.
Very Young Kittens
Kittens require active supervision and may play roughly with claws and teeth. They can also be injured by accidental falls or overly enthusiastic handling. Families with toddlers may be better matched with a confident adult cat.
Sphynx and Other Nearly Hairless Cats
These cats often enjoy people, but they require regular skin, ear and nail care and protection from temperature extremes. Their grooming is more specialized than many families expect.
Persian and Himalayan Cats
Their coats need frequent, careful combing and facial cleaning. Some individuals may also have breathing, eye or dental concerns associated with shortened facial structure.
Bengal Cats
Bengals are athletic, intelligent and often extremely active. They need substantial climbing, training and enrichment. A bored Bengal may be too intense for a family seeking a calm household pet.
Siamese and Other Highly Vocal Cats
These cats can be affectionate and wonderful with engaged families, but their frequent vocal communication and social intensity may not suit every home.
Scottish Fold Cats
The folded ears are associated with a cartilage mutation that can affect the entire body. Families should understand the serious welfare concerns connected with the trait before considering the breed.
High Needs Are Not the Same as Poor Temperament
An active or high-maintenance breed can thrive with a family that genuinely enjoys meeting those needs. The difficulty comes when a family chooses based on appearance and later discovers that the cat’s daily requirements do not fit their life.
Bringing Home a Cat to a Family
Create a Quiet Safe Room
Prepare one room with food, water, litter, a scratching surface, hiding places, a bed and a few toys. Keep children and other pets from crowding the doorway. The cat should be allowed to explore gradually.
Establish Family Rules Before the Cat Arrives
- Do not chase or corner the cat.
- Do not pull the tail, ears, fur or whiskers.
- Do not disturb the cat while it eats, sleeps or uses the litter box.
- Do not pick up the cat without adult permission.
- Stop petting when the cat moves away or becomes tense.
- Use toys, not hands, for play.
- Keep doors and windows secure.
- Leave the cat’s safe room and hiding places undisturbed.
Let the Cat Initiate Contact
Children can sit quietly on the floor and toss treats or roll a toy nearby. Allowing the cat to approach voluntarily helps create trust.
Supervise Introductions to Other Pets
Begin with scent exchange and separation. Do not place a new cat face-to-face with a dog or resident cat immediately. Introductions may take days or weeks.
Schedule Veterinary Care
Arrange an initial examination and bring all records. Discuss vaccines, parasite control, dental health, nutrition, microchip registration, spay or neuter status and any inherited concerns associated with the breed.
Protect the Cat From Overwhelming Attention
Do not invite a crowd of relatives and neighbors to meet the cat immediately. Give the cat time to learn the home and family before adding visitors.
Give Children Jobs That Help the Cat
Under adult supervision, children can refill water, toss toys, help measure food, brush a willing cat or place treats in a puzzle feeder. Positive responsibilities teach care without placing the cat’s welfare entirely in a child’s hands.
Family Cat Essentials
- A secure carrier large enough for the adult cat
- Age-appropriate food and measured portions
- Food and water bowls or a cat-safe fountain
- At least one litter box per cat, plus one additional box when possible
- Unscented litter familiar to the cat
- Multiple scratching surfaces
- Protected hiding places
- Sturdy climbing furniture and window perches
- Interactive toys used with supervision
- A brush or comb suited to the coat
- Nail clippers and dental-care supplies recommended by a veterinarian
- Enzymatic cleaner for accidents
- A registered microchip and updated contact information
- A realistic veterinary emergency plan
Common Mistakes Families Make With Cats
- Choosing for appearance alone: Temperament and care requirements matter more than color or coat pattern.
- Expecting the cat to entertain the children: A cat is a family member, not a toy.
- Allowing unsupervised handling: Young children and cats both need protection.
- Punishing normal scratching: Provide appropriate scratching surfaces and reward their use.
- Using hands during play: This can encourage biting and grabbing.
- Ignoring hiding and avoidance: A cat that retreats is asking for space.
- Overfeeding treats: Multiple family members may accidentally feed far more than intended.
- Forcing pet introductions: Rushed introductions can create lasting fear and conflict.
- Skipping routine veterinary care: Cats often conceal pain and illness.
- Letting the cat roam outdoors: Unsupervised outdoor access creates risks from traffic, toxins, fights, predators, parasites and getting lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Cats for Families
What is the best overall cat breed for families?
The Maine Coon, American Shorthair, Birman and Ragdoll are often strong family candidates. However, a well-socialized adult domestic cat with a known history around children may be the best match of all.
What cat breed is best for young children?
No breed should be expected to tolerate rough handling. A confident adult cat already known to be comfortable with young children is usually safer than choosing by breed alone. American Shorthairs, Maine Coons, Birmans and American Curls may be suitable when children are carefully supervised.
Are male or female cats better for families?
Sex is less important than individual temperament, socialization, age, health and whether the cat is spayed or neutered. Families should choose the individual cat rather than rely on gender stereotypes.
Is a kitten a good choice for a family with toddlers?
Kittens are fragile, active and prone to rough play. A calm adult cat may be a safer and more predictable choice for a family with toddlers. All interactions still require adult supervision.
Which family cat breeds are easiest to groom?
American Shorthairs, Burmese, Bombays, Abyssinians and shorthaired domestic cats generally have straightforward coats. All cats still need nail care, dental care and occasional brushing.
What cat breeds are good with dogs?
Maine Coons, Birmans, American Curls, American Bobtails and confident domestic cats often live successfully with cat-friendly dogs. The animals must be introduced gradually, and the dog must not chase or harass the cat.
What is the best cat breed for a busy family?
An adaptable adult American Shorthair, British Shorthair or domestic cat may cope better with predictable periods alone than a highly people-dependent breed. Every cat still needs daily interaction, play and care.
What cat breeds are best for older children?
Older children may enjoy active, intelligent cats such as Abyssinians, Burmese, Bombays, Siberians and American Bobtails. These breeds often appreciate training, interactive play and puzzle activities.
Are two cats better for a family than one?
A bonded adult pair or compatible pair of kittens may provide companionship and play. Two cats also require more space, more litter boxes and a larger veterinary budget. Unfamiliar cats should not be combined simply because the family assumes they will become friends.
Can a senior cat be a good family pet?
Yes. A healthy senior cat may be calm, affectionate and easier to assess than a kitten. Families should understand any medical needs and provide children with clear rules about gentle handling.
How long does a new family cat need to adjust?
Some cats explore within hours, while others need days or weeks. Progress should be measured by eating, litter-box use, grooming, relaxed sleep, play and voluntary interaction rather than a fixed deadline.
What should families do if a cat scratches a child?
Separate the child and cat calmly, clean the injury and seek medical advice when needed. Then identify what triggered the incident. The cat may have been frightened, cornered, hurt or overstimulated. Increase supervision and teach the child to recognize feline warning signs.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Cat for Your Family
The best family cat is not simply the breed with the friendliest reputation. It is the individual cat whose personality, age, activity, grooming needs and social style fit the household you actually have.
Look beyond appearance. Ask detailed questions. Consider adult cats with known histories. Be honest about the ages and behavior of the children, the family schedule, other pets and the amount of daily care available.
When the match is thoughtful and children are taught to respect feline boundaries, a cat can become a deeply loved family companion for many years.