10 Great Cat Breeds for Families: Info & Facts (With Pictures)

While doing one’s due diligence when looking for cats to adopt is essential for any prospective owner, it’s especially important for a family to consider the personality and character of the cat that they want to welcome into their home. You don’t want a grumpy or fearful kitty, traits that tend to be common in certain breeds. Conversely, many breeds are perfectly suited to family life, getting along famously with kids and even other pets. For more info on that, read on to see what makes a good family cat and the breeds that you need to check out.

The 10 Greatest Cat Breeds for Families

1. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the most perfect breeds for family life, and their fun-loving personality has been called dog-like. They have a shaggy, long coat perfectly suited to cold climates, but they prefer spending time indoors with their humans. That said, Maine Coons love a little mischief, and you’ll usually find them hunting for vermin in odd places. They get along great with most mild-mannered dog breeds too.

2. Bengal

The Bengal is a rare spotted breed known for their agile athletics and sociable personality. Unlike other cats, Bengals are notably easy to train and may walk great on a leash. This is a relatively new breed that was created by crossing a “generic” Domestic Shorthair with a spotted Asian Leopard cat. The result was the Bengal’s adventurous persona and luscious spotted coat. They’ve been called dog-like for their outgoing behavior.

3. Abyssinian

The Abyssinian has a vivid, ticked coat pattern that makes them stand out. They are called Abyss by their devotees. They’re thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds, tracing their lineage back to ancient Egypt. Today, they’ve adapted wonderfully to modern family life, and they’re definitely one of the most active and playful breeds you can own.

4. American Shorthair

The American Shorthair has one of the most balanced cat personalities. They’re not especially needy but have a gentle, sociable character. Don’t let their soft appearance fool you, though, because this breed was originally a mouser on colonial ships going to the U.S. from England. That makes them a playful breed, and they’re charming enough for small kids too.

• See Also: American Cat Breeds

5. Manx

Hailing from the Isle of Man, the Manx breed is mostly known for being tailless, but they also have a reputation for being the dogs of the cat world. Manx are gregarious and loving, and you’ll fall in love with their adorable little bunny hop. Manx are adept at hunting and come in nearly all colors, though white individuals are rare. The most common Manx look is generally tabby, though.

6. Siamese

The Siamese cat has a bold, inquisitive nature that fits in great with any lively household, and they have an insatiable need for play too! They love being the star of the show or the center of attention, and they’re not afraid to be vocal with you either. They’re something of a clown around the house, getting into antics you’d mistake for a dog’s work. Siamese are remarkably tolerant of children, especially if raised together with proper socialization.

• Related Read: Cat Breeds That Look Like Siamese Cats

7. Birman

Birmans are sometimes confused with Siamese cats because they have the same distinctive color point patterns, but they have shaggier fur and classy fur “gloves” on each paw. These kitties are curious, and you might find them trying to puzzle out one of your human contraptions or cuddling up to one of their favorite household humans. A Birman’s coat may look high maintenance, but they keep it admirably clean, and it doesn’t shed as bad as you might think.

8. Persian

The Persian cat is a long-lived ancient breed with a modernly photogenic grumpy face and lusciously soft coat. They’re so popular that they’re the most popular pedigreed cat in America, with a chill, relaxed nature unbefitting of their resting scowl. This is an excellent choice for any family looking for a lap cat since they aren’t as active as some other breeds. Despite their popularity or perhaps because of it, the Persian is one of the most affordable purebreds.

9. Russian Blue

The most famous Russian Blue is easily Tom from “Tom & Jerry,” but the average Russian Blue makes a spectacular family cat too. They’re relaxed and affectionate kitties with a mesmerizing gaze and beautiful trademark blue-gray coats. Historians aren’t sure, but Russian Blues are thought to come from Arkhangelsk in Russia. They’re long-lived kitties, with more than a few Russian blues making it to over 20 years old!

10. Bombay

The Bombay is a long-lived breed often known to make it to 20 years old, making them a perfect family cat. This kitty looks like a little panther and acts like one too, with a sweet, curious personality and a ton of playfulness. They’re sometimes confused with black Domestic Shorthair cats, but you can tell Bombays apart by their silky-smooth, sable-black coats. Bombays are low maintenance and shed very little, making them ideal if grooming is a concern.

What Makes a Good Family Cat?

The humble cat domesticated themselves thousands of years ago and got to work as a rat catcher for humans, but they’ve become so much more. Like dogs, cats are beloved companions and easily become part of the family. Certain personality traits in a feline are better suited for family life than others, so let’s take a brief look at how to spot a good family cat.

Traits of a Good Family Cat

Conclusion

Cats are more independent family pets than dogs, and certain breeds like those listed here are perfectly suited for any home with or without kids. They have gentle personalities and are playful, and the majority of them are low maintenance as far as grooming goes.

Featured Image Credit: Marina mrs brooke, Shutterstock