Nothing can be quite as delightful to a child as a furry friend. Most cats will also like one more person providing the right attention and care. Children and cats can live and play together wonderfully, provided they can respect one another.
Toddlers should never be left alone with a cat. They can be rambunctious and accidentally hurt or frighten a cat. If a cat is frightened, she might bite or scratch. You should always supervise any playtime with your toddler.
All children who are going to come in contact with the cat should be taught some of the basics of handling:
Always pick a cat up with one hand supporting its chest and the other supporting its hind legs. A cat can also perch with her front legs on your shoulder, but be sure to support her back legs with your arm or hand
If a cat struggles or tries to get away, let go
If a cat's ears are flat and its tail lashing then it's not happy and should be left alone
Don't touch a cat's tummy. It can frighten her and she might bite
When playing with a cat, always use appropriate toys. Teasing or trying to entice the cat to catch your hands or fingers is not a good idea
Tasty Tips
If a cat is sleeping, eating or using the litter box, leave her alone
Many parents choose to introduce a family pet as a way of teaching their children compassion and responsibility. This may not actually be such a good idea for younger children. If a child falls behind on the chores associated with the cat (feeding Hill's™ Science Diet™ mature adult cat food, watering and cleaning the litter box), it's only the cat that will suffer. When deciding to get a cat, make sure that you are committed to the best cat care. This will lead to a happier cat, children and parents.
Cats should have a 'quiet space' where they can be left alone. This may be a room (you might choose to keep the litter box in there as well) or even just a space under a bed. An ideal piece of furniture for a cat is a tall cat perch. Cats love having a high place to sit. It can double as a scratching post and can serve as an escape out of the reach of grabby hands.
Related products
Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Beef Dinner
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Adult 7+ Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Adult Chicken & Spinach Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Related articles
Fun Games for Exercising Your Cat
Discover which cat toys games your feline friend might like, and how they are great sources of exercise. Explore our library of articles to learn more.
Helpful Tips for Controlling Your Cat's Hairballs
How Treat-Dispensing Toys Keep Your Cat Active
Are you looking to get your cat more active? Does she constantly look bored? Then you may want to consider using a food-dispensing (also known as treat-dispensing) cat toy, which provides both physical and mental stimulation during snack times.
The Proper Nutritional Balance Your Cat Needs
Good nutrition is about the right balance of nutrients. Learn more about health issues when feeding a cat food that has an improper nutritional balance from your friends at Hills Pet Nutrition.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.