Cat expert shares feline breeds that are ‘perfect’ for family home

Considering adding a cat to your family but don’t know where to start?

An expert in feline behaviour may have just the answer – with a selection of breeds she claims are perfect for the family home.

Amanda Campion, a registered clinical cat behaviourist by profession, has taken to TikTok to recommend the most suitable options for you.

“If you’re looking for a family-friendly cat, these breeds are known for being cool when chaos is going on around the home,” she began in a video.

The expert proceeded with a list of prospective pets – advising any parents to save the clip for future reference as these breed suggestions will come in handy for those who also have young children.

Rag Dolls

“These are generally really amenable to being picked up and held – and they inevitably go quite floppy, hence the name” Amanda advised.

Maine Coons

This large breed is “beautiful and very friendly” according to Amanda, who continued: “They’re playful and they behave a little bit like a dog – but they’re great with kids. Call him a ‘gentle giant’.”

British Shorthair

Third on Amanda’s list, the British Shorthair is “very, very confident” and known to be a “little bit aloof” at times, she noted. However, Amanda explained: “They are very, very sassy, and they’re very calm and affectionate. Also, they generally have a loving nature.”

Burmese

“These are so beautiful and super friendly,” Amanda revealed. “They’re great with kids and generally like people as a rule.”

With years of experience, Amanda added further words of wisdom that may assist your decision. “Always check individual temperament – speak to the breeder – be honest with them and tell them what your home environment setup is like and they will probably suggest one of the kittens they’ve noticed is more super-confident or maybe a bit quieter,” she said.

She re-emphasised that individual temperament is just as important as the general breed traits themselves. Amanda also suggested finding the names of reputable breeders online for added reassurances the cats have had all the necessary health checks and have experience in a social environment.

She added: “I would definitely never recommend getting a cat from Gumtree or Pets for Homes or anything like that because you don’t know the background of these breeders – and you certainly don’t know if they’ve had all the health checks. Buying cheap sometimes ends up costing you a lot more – not just in money but also in emotion and that’s priceless.”

Writing in resposne, one cat owner said: ” My British Shorthair is so affectionate, he’s the sweetest boy. He is very scared of new people though, he’s not very brave, but once he gets to know you he starts to show is loving side.”

A second TikTok user penned: “I love my Arabian Mau. She talks for England and keeps me company in the garden.” Whilst a third person commented: “We got ours from the Humane Society so not sure what breed he is, but a vet tech thought he might be part Maine Coon since he’s so big. He’s very calm and likes to be around people.”