Top 12+ Kid-Friendly Cat Breeds That Make a Purr-fect Family Addition

1) Abyssinian

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

If you’re looking for a high-energy cat breed that will keep up with your kids and stay kitten-like throughout much of their life, consider an Abyssinian. Thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds – images resembling Abys are found in ancient Egyptian tombs – they love to play and want to be involved with the family.

2) American Shorthair

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

This beautiful breed is known for having an easygoing and friendly persona. Cats get a bad rep for being less than affectionate, but this furry companion appreciates a little TLC. They are also ok with being left alone to chill by the window for hours.

4) Birman

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

Look into the eyes of a Birman and you just know that this cat breed is sweet, but it may surprise you that it’s affectionate, too. A social and people-oriented breed, Birman responds well to training and, like the American Shorthair, does well with small children and other animals. They do like to be around their family, so if you spend a lot of time away from home, you may want to have a companion for your Birman.

5) Chartreux

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

The loyal and loving Chartreux is also full of play, perfect if your kids are high-energy and can spend time keeping kitty entertained. That said, they’re a polite and undemanding breed that likes to stay close to their family and can be like a shadow. This loyal, affectionate, dog-like cat even can be trained to walk on a leash, fetch toys and respond to her name.

6) Devon Rex

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

Weighing in between five and 9 pounds, the Devon Rex are known as “the pixies of cats.” Though they’re smaller in size, Devons are big in personality, intelligent, active, and a bit mischievous – they thrive in a busy household and like to be part of the action. They’re great with children and welcome attention from friends who are visiting, too.

7) Maine Coon

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

Don’t let their large size fool you – Maine Coons get along well with kids and other animals and are social, intelligent, and loyal. Rather than picking a favorite, Maine Coons like to share their love, interacting with each family member. Watch out at bath time – these cats like the water and may try to join you.

8) Manx

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

If you’re looking for a snuggle buddy, look no further than the Manx. This gentle, quiet cat is happiest curled up, but don’t be surprised by its energetic spurts, turning playful at a moment’s notice. Patience and tolerance are other attributes of the Manx, making them a great fit with kids of all ages.

9) Persian

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

Easy-going, calm, even-tempered, and devoted are all kid-friendly traits that can make the Persian a terrific addition to any family. Though they may chase the occasional toy, these cats are happiest receiving attention from and being affectionate with their people. Persians do need quite a bit of grooming, but that shouldn’t be a problem – they’re considered one of the easiest cat breeds to train.

11) Ragdoll

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

Gentle, calm and sociable – these are three traits given to the Ragdoll, one of the world’s most popular cat breeds. Ragdolls want to be a part of the family, and will likely greet you when you come home and stay by your side. This breed is not aggressive nor temperamental, making them terrific pets for families with curious kids.

12) Scottish Fold

1) Abyssinian, 2) American Shorthair, 4) Birman, 5) Chartreux, 6) Devon Rex, 7) Maine Coon, 9) Persian, 11) Ragdoll, 12) Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold isn’t only sweet-looking, she is sweet and affectionate, too, enjoying cuddling and loving on her people. This cat’s friendly, even temperament means they’re usually patient with kids and can be trained to perform basic tricks and even play fetch.