Cats and Kids

I have a 1 year old girl, 4 year old boy, and 9 year old girl. Are my kids too young to have a cat? Is there a certain kind, age? Or should I just wait until they are older.

A little more about my family: my wife is home all day with the youngest, the others are in school most of the day. We have a decent-size house, and I was thinking of having an indoor cat. Any thoughts out there?

Thanks.

I'll let the parents of young children chime in to give you their personal opinion but I think it can be done with supervision. Welcome to TSC!

Hi and welcome to TCS!

I have 2 children (the oldest being 2) and I've found that cats are kids can be great together as long as there is close supervision.

My daughter loves our cats but sometimes too much

We have the cats water/food and litter in an area where she can't get too and also provide the cats with plenty of hiding spaces (closets with cat beds and a very tall cat tree) for times when she's getting on their nerves

I don't have kids, but I know plenty of people on TCS do. I'd imagine that adopting a rescue cat that's older than a kitten - but young enough to be playful and tolerant - would be the way to go. Look for adoption days at local pet stores or Petsmart, or look for foster networks where the person fostering the cats will really know their personalities well, and they'll help you find the right kitty.

Don't know if you already know about Petfinder - if you don't, a warning - it can be addictive! http://www.petfinder.com

Hello and welcome I have 4 children(12, 7, 5, and 3) and 4 furbabies! It can be difficult at times but so rewarding. It takes alot of teaching and patients. Your younger children have to be tought how to hold a cat and how to be when around the cat. But my family is proof it can be done

Thanks for all the warm responses. Also, is there a breed that you would recommend? Are there any to stay away from? Is it okay to have a permanent indoor cat? Are there better breeds for this? And what gender do you recommend?

I found this article that might be of interest to you

Best Known Breeds for Kids

I would suggest visiting our Breeders Corner where you might be able to get some advice.

As far as an indoor cat. We have 2 indoor cats (both are domestic long hair) and really any cat can adjust to this type of lifestyle. In the long run it's much safer and healthier for them

Hi there

we're so happy to get the chance to welcome you to TCS. I'm sure you'll enjoy your stay with us - we're one great big family and you'll find loads of friends here. If I can help at all while you're finding your way around TCS just click on my username and send me a Personal Message - I'll do what I can to answer your questions.

We've had cats in our household since the youngest was 2 years old (now 24 and 32). The cats loved the children and the children loved the cats. I would agree with the need to supervise the young ones though for the sake of both cats and children.

As long as someone is there to supervise the kids when they play with the cat, there shouldn't be a problem.