These Adorable Cat Breeds for Kids Make the Perfect Family Pets, According to a Vet

1) Ragdoll

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

It’s hard to find a cat more relaxed than the ragdoll. Known for their gentle, affectionate nature, these big softies often go limp when picked up—hence the name. “Ragdolls and Maine Coons are affectionate, large, and gentle, often tolerating being carried or cuddled by kids,” says Dr. Vasudevan.

2) Maine Coons

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Like the Ragdolls, Maine Coons are affectionate giants with calm, dog-like personalities. They’re patient with children, playful without being rowdy, and incredibly loyal.

3) Birman

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Sweet, social, and soft as a cloud, Birmans are often called “people cats.” They love companionship and adapt well to active homes. Their gentle temperament makes them ideal for children still learning to handle pets respectfully.

4) American Shorthair

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

A classic choice for families, the American Shorthair is friendly, adaptable, and low-maintenance. They’re known for their even temper and get along well with both kids and other pets. Dr. Vasudevan notes that cats with “a calm, patient temperament and affectionate nature” tend to thrive in family settings—and this breed checks all those boxes.

5) Abyssinian

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Active families will love the playful spirit of the Abyssinian. “Abyssinians are famously playful and energetic, often enjoying games of chase or fetch with children,” says Dr. Vasudevan. These curious cats are happiest when they can climb, explore, and join in on family fun.

6) Siamese

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Siamese cats are affectionate extroverts who crave connection. “Siamese cats can be very affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family members,” Dr. Vasudevan explains. They’re chatty, social, and love being part of whatever’s happening in the household.

7) British Shorthair

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

If your family wants a more laid-back companion, the British Shorthair is a dream. These plush, easygoing cats enjoy company but aren’t overly demanding. Their calm nature makes them great with gentle children who appreciate a cat that’s happy to lounge nearby.

8) Burmese

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Burmese cats are outgoing and love to be right in the middle of the action. Their gentle yet social nature means they’re comfortable with children and other pets. They often follow family members from room to room, eager to be part of the fun.

9) Scottish Fold

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

With their distinctive folded ears and sweet personalities, Scottish Folds are as friendly as they are adorable. They adapt easily to family life and usually bond closely with their people. They’re affectionate without being clingy, a balance many families appreciate.

10) Exotic Shorthair

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Essentially a short-haired Persian, the Exotic Shorthair offers all the sweetness without the high-maintenance coat. They’re affectionate and calm, happy to cuddle up after a bit of play. Families who prefer a quieter, loving cat will find this breed a great fit.

11) Chartreux

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Known for their round faces and calm demeanor, Chartreux cats are affectionate without being overbearing. They’re tolerant of kids’ energy and form strong family bonds. Their quiet, easygoing personalities make them especially suited for busy households.

12) Bengal

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

For families with active kids, the Bengal can be a great companion. They love to play, climb, and explore, keeping everyone entertained. Parents should make sure children understand how to handle them respectfully—“meeting the cat before adoption is important,” Dr. Vasudevan reminds, “as is teaching children how to handle cats gently and respectfully.”*

13) Ragamuffin

1) Ragdoll, 2) Maine Coons, 3) Birman, 4) American Shorthair, 5) Abyssinian, 6) Siamese, 7) British Shorthair, 8) Burmese, 9) Scottish Fold, 10) Exotic Shorthair, 11) Chartreux, 12) Bengal, 13) Ragamuffin

Gentle, patient, and cuddly, Ragamuffins are often compared to Ragdolls for their affectionate temperament. They’re great with kids and love being held or brushed. Their soft, tolerant personalities make them one of the easiest breeds to integrate into family life.

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