Children and Cats

INFORMATION ABOUT KITTENS & CATS  -  KITTEN & CAT CARE  -  CAT HEALTH ISSUES  -  CHILDREN & CATS  -  LIST OF CAT BREEDS

Children and cats can form a wonderfully close bond and it is heart-warming to watch them interact. Apart from the obvious companionship and affection, there are many other benefits for children sharing their lives with a cat.

A Pet Kitten or Cat can:

• Teach responsibility: children learn about the requirements of a living being such as food, water and exercise.

• Aid childhood development: pets help children develop nurturing and social skills. Developing positive feelings about pets can aid self-esteem and help children develop verbal communication and compassion.

• Be a friend to children: children turn to pets when they need a friend, confidante or protector. Children often refer to their family pet as their 'best friend' As pets do not judge children or get angry at them, children often trust them with their secrets and private thoughts.

• Teach life lessons: pets are often the first experience a child has with death and grieving.

• Be fun! Pets provide unconditional love and affection. Children can participate in safe games with their pets.

Parents are the first and most influential educators in their child's life journey. Teaching your child about the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership begins from an early age as they learn from your interaction and the way you nurture and guide their experiences with their pets

"Children & cats" courtesy of the Bureau of Animal Welfare - www.depi.vic.gov.au/pets/cats