Top 10 Best Cat Breeds for Kids

MD Mustakim Jabir
Read Time 5 Min

When it comes to choosing the best cat breeds for kids, it’s all about finding a furry friend that can match your family’s energy while also bringing calm and love into the home. Cats are not only adorable companions but also independent creatures that don’t need constant attention — perfect for busy families.

If you’re considering bringing a new feline friend into your family, I’ve got you covered. I’ve carefully selected some of the best cat breeds known for their kid-friendly personalities, easygoing nature, and low maintenance.

So, let’s dive in and discover which cat breed suits your kids vibe the best!

Key Traits to Consider

When picking the right breed, here are some things YOU should keep in mind:

Temperament: Friendly and patient cats are ideal for children.
Energy Level: Some cats are more playful than others — this can be a good thing for active kids!
Coat Maintenance: Long-haired cats may require more grooming, while short-haired breeds might be easier to care for.
Toleration of Noise and Activity: Kids can be loud, so you’ll want a cat that won’t get stressed out easily.

Now let’s jump into the top 10 cat breeds for families with kids!

1. Abyssinian

Known for their boundless energy, Abyssinians are perfect for families with active kids. They are curious, playful, and can keep up with even the most energetic child, providing endless entertainment.

Personality: Outgoing, highly active, and playful. They love interaction and enjoy being part of the action.
Weight Range: 6-10 lbs
Body Length: 12-16 inches
Coat Type: Short, smooth, and easy to maintain
Coat Colors: Ruddy, red, blue, and fawn
Coat Patterns: Ticked coat (each hair is banded with multiple colors)
Eye Colors: Green, gold, hazel, or copper
Expected Lifespan: 12-15 years

Abyssinians are perfect if YOU want a cat that’s constantly on the move, interacting with your children.

2. American Shorthair

If YOU’RE looking for a low-maintenance, affectionate family cat, the American Shorthair is a classic choice. They’re known for being calm, easygoing, and very tolerant of children.

Personality: Laid-back and adaptable. They get along well with other pets and kids.
Weight Range: 10-15 lbs
Body Length: 12-15 inches
Coat Type: Short, dense, and requires minimal grooming
Coat Colors: Wide variety, including white, black, cream, and silver
Coat Patterns: Tabby, solid, bi-color, and more
Eye Colors: Green, gold, hazel, or blue
Expected Lifespan: 15-20 years

With an American Shorthair, YOU get a family-friendly cat that’s easy to care for, yet loving and interactive.

3. Bengal

Bengals are a strikingly beautiful breed with their wild, leopard-like coats, but they’re also friendly and social cats that love being around children.

Personality: Playful, energetic, and loves climbing. Bengals are great for families who can provide stimulation.
Weight Range: 8-15 lbs
Body Length: 14-18 inches
Coat Type: Short and silky
Coat Colors: Brown, silver, and snow
Coat Patterns: Rosettes, spots, and marbling
Eye Colors: Green, yellow, or blue
Expected Lifespan: 12-16 years

Bengals are for YOU if YOU have active kids and are ready to invest in keeping your cat stimulated.

4. Birman

Birmans are gentle, affectionate cats that form close bonds with their families. Their calm and loving nature makes them ideal companions for children.

Personality: Loving, social, and calm. Birmans love to be around their people but aren’t overly demanding.
Weight Range: 8-12 lbs
Body Length: 15-18 inches
Coat Type: Medium-long, soft, and silky
Coat Colors: Seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac
Coat Patterns: Pointed with white “gloves” on paws
Eye Colors: Deep blue
Expected Lifespan: 12-16 years

If YOU want a calm and affectionate cat that will follow YOU around without being overwhelming, a Birman is a great choice.

5. Burmese

Burmese cats are people-oriented and have a sweet disposition, making them a hit with children who want an affectionate cat.

Personality: Affectionate, friendly, and very people-centric. They thrive on interaction.
Weight Range: 8-12 lbs
Body Length: 15-18 inches
Coat Type: Short and glossy
Coat Colors: Sable, champagne, blue, and platinum
Coat Patterns: Solid color
Eye Colors: Yellow or gold
Expected Lifespan: 10-17 years

With a Burmese, YOU’LL have a loyal companion that loves being close to its family and is great with children.

6. Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is one of the most unique-looking breeds, with large ears and a wavy coat. They’re playful, mischievous, and very affectionate, making them great companions for kids.

Personality: Playful, inquisitive, and affectionate. They love being involved in family activities.
Weight Range: 6-9 lbs
Body Length: 12-15 inches
Coat Type: Short, curly, and soft
Coat Colors: Wide variety, including black, white, blue, and cream
Coat Patterns: Solid, bi-color, tabby, and more
Eye Colors: Blue, green, gold, or hazel
Expected Lifespan: 9-15 years

The Devon Rex is for YOU if YOU want a playful and quirky cat that’ll keep both YOU and your kids entertained.

7. Maine Coon

Known as the “gentle giant,” the Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds, but they are incredibly gentle and great with kids.

Personality: Friendly, laid-back, and intelligent. They are great for families and love interacting with children.
Weight Range: 10-25 lbs
Body Length: 19-40 inches
Coat Type: Long and silky
Coat Colors: Wide variety, including black, white, orange, and brown
Coat Patterns: Tabby, solid, and more
Eye Colors: Green, gold, blue, or odd-eyed
Expected Lifespan: 12-15 years

If YOU’RE looking for a big, fluffy, and gentle cat that will love being part of the family, the Maine Coon is perfect.

8. Manx

Manx cats are known for their tailless appearance and friendly personality. They are great with children and are very loyal.

Personality: Friendly, social, and playful. They form close bonds with their families.
Weight Range: 8-12 lbs
Body Length: 12-16 inches
Coat Type: Short or long, depending on the variety
Coat Colors: White, black, blue, and more
Coat Patterns: Solid, tabby, bi-color
Eye Colors: Green, hazel, or copper
Expected Lifespan: 12-16 years

The Manx is for YOU if YOU want a unique, affectionate cat that’ll be loyal and loving to your family.

9. Persian

Persians are known for their luxurious coats and calm demeanor. They love lounging around, making them ideal for more relaxed families with kids.

Personality: Calm, laid-back, and very affectionate. They love attention but aren’t overly active.
Weight Range: 7-12 lbs
Body Length: 14-18 inches
Coat Type: Long, thick, and requires regular grooming
Coat Colors: Wide variety, including black, white, blue, and cream
Coat Patterns: Solid, bi-color, tabby, and more
Eye Colors: Blue, green, hazel, or copper
Expected Lifespan: 10-15 years

If YOU want a beautiful, calm cat that enjoys attention and cuddles, the Persian is a fantastic choice.

10. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are one of the best breeds for families because of their relaxed, docile nature. They love being carried around and are incredibly gentle with children.

Personality: Calm, affectionate, and loves being held. They are known for their “floppy” nature when picked up.
Weight Range: 10-20 lbs
Body Length: 17-21 inches
Coat Type: Semi-long and silky
Coat Colors: Seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac
Coat Patterns: Pointed, mitted, bi-color
Eye Colors: Blue
Expected Lifespan: 12-17 years

If YOU’RE looking for a gentle, calm, and loving cat that’s great with kids, the Ragdoll is one of the best choices out there.

Choosing the right cat breeds your kids can be life-changing, adding joy, love, and companionship to your home. While each breed has its own personality and quirks, all of the above are great options for families with children.

Remember, when adding a pet to your home, always consider their needs alongside YOUR family’s lifestyle. And don’t forget to check out peer-reviewed studies on cat behavior to better understand how different breeds may adapt to YOUR family environment.