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™ 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
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pouch Variety 12 Pack Cat Food, Chicken & Beef, Salmon & Tuna
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Adult Oral Care Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Related articles
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Get helpful information on proper feline oral healthcare and why it's so vital to take care of your cat's teeth.
Belly Upset: Soothing Your Cat's Sensitive Stomach
Understand the symptoms of a chronic upset stomach in your cat, and learn how to help sooth their discomfort.
Weight Management
Obesity affects more than 30 percent of cats in America. Learn how you can properly feed and exercise your cat to improve its weight management.
Cats with Sensitive Skin: Looking Beneath the Fur
Provide the best possible treatment for cats with sensitive skin by spotting the signs, knowing the causes, and understanding the remedies. Learn more now.
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.