She recommends waiting until a child is at least 5 to get a new cat or dog because older children have more self-control and may better understand rules like not snatching away toys or interrupting animals while they eat. “Even the most well-trained dog might bite if you pull on its tail,” King says.
Getting a pet just to teach a child responsibility is not a good idea. Pet experts recommend that young kittens are not appropriate for children under age five and suggest a child should be at least six years old before having a pet.
A cat will help your little one fight back feelings of loneliness while engaging in some feline fun. It's important for your child to learn how to tune into another being's feelings and needs, and a pet cat can be the perfect teacher.
A kitten requires more time for socialization and generally more veterinary care during his or her first year of life. If you are a busy, working family, an adult cat may be the right choice for you. An adult cat can provide the love and companionship you are looking for from your cat, but with less work.
Older cats will generally not take kindly to a kitten that they consider to be a pesky, frolicking “intruder” that is infringing on his domain.” That's because senior cats are set in their ways. They thrive on a customary and established routine. It can be extremely stressful for them when that routine is shattered.
Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder. If you're able to choose from a group of kittens, avoid a kitten that's hissing, growling or engaged in serious battle with his mates.
As a general rule, if your child is under five years old, it's best to adopt a cat that's over two years old. Many people have a warm and fuzzy image of a kitten and a child growing up together, but there are a few things you need to consider before adopting a kitten (less than 1 year old) if you have a young child.
Male cats tend to be more social and affectionate with both humans and other cats. They commonly form strong bonds with other cats in the home, even when they are not from the same litter. Females, on the other hand, are often more standoffish. If you are looking for a cuddle bug, adopting a male may be your best bet.
Cats are highly territorial. Your resident cat or cats likely believe they own your home. A new kitten can feel like a threat to that ownership, so it's so important to make introductions slowly. Anticipate keeping the kitten separated for at least a couple days.
Cats and young children can absolutely live safely and happily together if you adopt a cat with the right temperament. The best cats for kids are gentle, friendly and patient. While rumor has it that many cats are cranky, most can make loving pets.
Cats can carry infectious diseases that can be harmful to your child. They usually pass them on by scratching or through their poo. You or your child could develop an infection if you: touch cat poo or something contaminated with cat poo.
Cats can trigger asthma, and some people are allergic to cat hair or dander (dead skin). If you have young children, a cat might not be the best idea. Cats may be unpredictable around children when unsupervised, so teaching your children how to behave around cats is vital.
Families with small children would be better off selecting an adult, neutered male with a laid-back personality for their family pet. Males generally tolerate handling better than females and if the cat is over 18 months old, the personality and temperament are already well established–“what you see is what you get”.
Most cats make great companions for kids
Although you will likely have a positive experience introducing kittens and children, you should also consider adopting an older, calmer cat. Some cat breeds known for their calm, mellow demeanors include the Birman, British Shorthair, Persian, and Ragdoll.
Nope! While your cat's biggest growth spurt is over (those cuddly kitten days are so short!), cats aren't fully grown until at least 12 months, according to PetMD. Some cats, like the Maine Coon, take two years to reach full adulthood.
While older cats will occasionally take to a new kitten right away, they typically need a little time to adjust to the changes. Sometimes cats never fully accept a new kitten but will simply coexist, keeping to themselves away from the other cat in the house.
Yes, it's extremely normal to get remorseful after adopting any pet. It's normal to feel inadequate, not be sure if you are a good pet owner or if your cat is feeling well taken care of. It's okay to feel scared and overwhelmed.
Bathrooms work especially well! They're easy to clean and easy to get in and out of. Best of all, they usually don't have much furniture for New Kitty to hide under or to soil while she gets to know where her box is. Getting the space ready: Food, water, a bed, and a litter box are key.
While a cat's gender doesn't seem to make a difference in terms of affection, Posluns notes that studies of cat personality also suggest it has little influence on the type of relationship with their owner.
Males, or toms, can be friendlier than females. Intact male cats "spray" to mark their territory and “howl” for females (this is usually not a problem if you get him neutered). Female cats tend to be more reserved than males but are far less likely to spray.
Pairs are Happier
Despite their independent natures, cats are social creatures that need companionship to thrive. Left alone, a cat can develop behavioral problems, and in some cases, even show signs of depression. Cats in bonded pairs, on the other hand, are more likely to be better adjusted.
Because of the attachments they form, the answer is yes; cats can feel lonely! While each kitty has a unique personality and needs, the following signs could indicate a lonely cat: Destructive behavior. Loss or increase in appetite.
Your kitten is still small.
Or he could be hurt if you or your spouse roll over on him accidentally. Wait until he's of a size to make that an unlikely risk. My main rule of thumb is to wait until the kitten is old enough to get up on the bed on his own — typically around his 6-month birthday.
Similarly, young kittens have particularly sharp teeth and claws, which can accidentally injure delicate young children. For all these reasons, cats over 2 or 3 years old are best for kids under age 5 or 6.