Choosing a Cat for Young Kids

If you're seeking a new addition to your family in the form of a new cat or kitten, extra care must be taken if you have young children. Adopting a cat or kitten of any breed can spell disaster if you haven't adequately prepared your family for the new arrival, and many a cat-scratch, carpet stain, and shelter-return has occured as a result of incompatibility between a child and a cat.

However, cats can also be excellent companions for children if they are selected and introduced carefully. These guidelines can help to select a cat breed that can thrive alongside your child with no conflict.

Pick a Large-Breed Cat or Kitten.

Nothing will break a four-year-old's heart as much as knowing that she has accidentally injured her tiny new kitten. Young kittens of all breeds are extremely fragile, and can't necessarily hold up to the rigors of child-play without injury (or even death). However, grown cats, especially those of large breeds, can escape a child's clutches more readily when in danger, and can withstand being tossed, dressed in doll-clothes, or stuffed into a sock-drawer without too much trouble.

While it is obviously best that you supervise your child when he or she is playing with your family's new cat, it is still very important that you select a cat who would be okay if your child got out of your sight temporarily. If the cat or kitten is small enough to be put into a shoebox, flushed down the toilet, or dressed up in doll-clothes, consider a different option. Ragdolls and Maine Coons may be ideal if what you need is a large, adult cat breed.

Choose an Affectionate Breed.

Children will eagerly bond with their pets, and if what you seek is a cat who will bond just as quickly to your child, select a breed or individual who is inclined toward affection. Many cat breeds, like the Ragdoll, Abyssinian, Somali, and Birman, will purr delightfully even when sloppily carried in the arms of a young child. These cats tend to be the most ideal for young children who require unconditional love and affection from their first animal companions.

Often, animal shelters will house rescued female cats who have previously given birth to a litter of kittens. Often, these cats can be excellent companions for young children because the cat will have previous experience in a maternal role, raising her own kittens. Translating the maternal affection model onto your child might help to create a strong bond between both of them.

Avoid All Aggressive or Anxious Cats.

A cat suffering from anxiety, especially one who was previously a stray or feral cat, can be a dangerous addition to a home with youg children. The unpredictable antics of these cats can make them a great fit for experienced cat owners seeking a challenge, but they are not an appropriate choice for any family with young children. Cat scratches and bites can become infected very easily in young children, and anxious cats are likely to have behavioral issues, including soiling on the floor and destroying the child's property.

There are exceptions to every rule when it comes to behaviors that can be expected from cat breeds. However, it may be best to avoid cats with a reputation for being unfriendly or prone to behavioral problems if you have young children. Cats like the Korat, Sphynx, and Bombay may become aggressive in the company of children. If you choose to adopt a cat from an aggressive or anxious breed, do so only after carefully considering the individual's own needs, background, and pedigree.

Regardless of whether the cat breed is naturally prone to aggression, most breeders and long-term cat owners strongly recommend against declawing, even if your cat is in the presence of a young child. Declawing often makes cats more aggressive because they feel helpless or traumatized, and they instead resort to their even-more-dangerous teeth to attack. Declawing does not solve behavioral problems; rather, it transfers aggression to a different method of expression.

Ultimately, all breed-bias aside, it is critical to bear in mind that the best cat for a young child is one who is well-cared-for and happy. Like your child, the cat will not behave affectionately or appropriately unless its needs are met and it feels comfortable in its environment. Give your cat clean water, alone-time, a balanced diet, and proper health care including spaying and neutering. In a loving, nurturing environment, almost any cat can become a loving companion for a young child.