12 Tips For Choosing The Right Cat For Your Family

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

A woman and a boy outdoors holding a gray British Shorthair cat wrapped in a soft blanket
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Cats are among the most popular pets worldwide, offering companionship and joy to countless homes. However, choosing the right cat for your family requires careful consideration. From assessing your living space to understanding a cat’s temperament, there are many factors to weigh before making this lifelong commitment. Cats vary widely in energy levels, personality, and care needs, so finding the perfect match ensures a harmonious relationship. Whether you’re drawn to playful kittens or calm senior cats, these tips will guide you in selecting the ideal feline friend for your home.

1. Assess Your Living Space

A fluffy long-haired cat standing on a wooden coffee table
Chewy/Unsplash

Your home environment plays a critical role in determining the best cat for your family. Smaller spaces, like apartments, may suit a laid-back, low-energy cat, while larger homes with secure outdoor access could accommodate active or adventurous cats. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and they love to climb, explore, and rest in cozy, safe spaces. Adding cat trees, shelves, or even window perches can enrich their environment. Regardless of your living space, ensuring it matches your cat’s needs is essential for their physical and mental well-being.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle And Schedule

A woman sitting on a yellow armchair with a laptop
freepik/Freepik

A cat’s temperament should align with your daily routine. If you’re often away, an independent adult cat might suit your lifestyle better than a needy kitten. Conversely, if you work from home, a social, high-energy cat could thrive with your attention. High-energy cats require regular play sessions and interactive toys to keep them mentally stimulated. Older cats, on the other hand, may be content with less interaction and more quiet time. Assess your routine carefully to determine the level of commitment you can provide and select a cat that thrives in that environment.

3. Think About Temperament

An elderly couple smiling and cuddling a long-haired ginger
freepik/Freepik

Cats, like people, have unique personalities. While some breeds, like Ragdolls and Maine Coons, are known for being affectionate and social, others, such as British Shorthairs, are more independent. Spend time observing potential cats to gauge their demeanor—are they playful, shy, curious, or laid-back? Shelter staff or breeders can provide valuable insights into a cat’s behavior. Matching a cat’s temperament with your preferences ensures a harmonious relationship. Whether you want a lively companion or a calm lap cat, there’s a feline friend for every personality.

4. Choose Based On Energy Levels

A playful Bengal cat with a spotted coat on a yellow bed
freepic.diller/Freepik

Kittens and young cats are typically energetic, requiring regular play and stimulation. They thrive on interactive toys, scratching posts, and even training exercises to burn off energy. Older cats, in contrast, are often calmer and more content with lounging. If your home is busy and active, a high-energy cat might fit right in. For quieter households, a relaxed senior cat may be the perfect match. Understanding energy levels ensures that you and your new cat are comfortable and happy in your shared space.

5. Address Health And Special Needs

A woman petting a gray tabby cat near a window
freepik/Freepik

Some cats require extra care due to health conditions or disabilities. Senior cats often need specialized diets or more frequent vet visits, while cats with conditions like blindness or deafness can live full, happy lives with proper accommodations. Adopting a special-needs cat can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to understand their requirements beforehand. Talk to shelter staff or breeders about the cat’s medical history, dietary needs, and any potential future health concerns. Being prepared ensures you can provide the best care for your new companion.

6. Evaluate Existing Pets

A Bengal cat with a sleek spotted coat and a Yorkshire Terrier
Helena Jankovičová Kováčová/PEXELS

If you already have pets, consider how a new cat will integrate into your home. Dogs with a high prey drive or existing cats that are territorial may struggle with a new feline. Quarantining a new cat for at least two weeks helps ease introductions and prevents potential health risks. Slowly introduce your pets using scent swapping and supervised visits to build positive associations. With patience and proper planning, your pets can coexist peacefully and even form strong bonds.

7. Factor In Children

Two children playing with skateboarding cat
Cottonbro studio/Pexels

Homes with young children may not be ideal for kittens, as their delicate nature can lead to accidental injuries. Older cats with calm temperaments may be better suited to households with small children. Teaching kids how to interact respectfully with cats—avoiding tail-pulling or loud noises—helps foster a positive relationship. Cats can also teach children empathy and responsibility, making them an excellent addition to family life when paired with the right training and supervision.

8. Purebred Or Mixed Breed?

Two women sitting on a couch petting an orange tabby cat with short fur
freepik/Freepik

Purebred cats offer predictable traits, such as coat type or size, but they can be prone to genetic health issues. Mixed-breed cats, often available at shelters, are typically healthier and come with just as much love to give. Spend time with any potential cat to understand their unique personality. Whether you’re drawn to a specific breed or are open to mixed breeds, remember that every cat has the potential to become the perfect companion with the right match.

9. One Cat Or Two?

Three young girls sitting outdoors on green grass, cuddling adorable gray kittens
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Adopting two cats, especially bonded pairs, can provide companionship and reduce loneliness. However, caring for two cats means double the food, litter, and veterinary expenses. If you’re considering adopting kittens, having two can help them socialize better and provide endless entertainment as they play and grow together. Ensure you have the space, resources, and time to meet the needs of multiple cats before making this decision.

10. Manage Allergies

A woman holding a hairless Sphynx cat wrapped in a blanket
freepik/Freepik

Cat allergies are a common concern and can affect your choice of pet. While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds, like Siberians or Balinese, may produce fewer allergens. Spending time with a potential cat before adopting can help gauge your reaction. Regular grooming and cleaning can also reduce allergens in your home, making life with your cat more comfortable for allergy sufferers.

11. Ask Shelter Or Breeder For Guidance

A Bengal cat inside a pet carrier being handed to a veterinarian
freepik/Freepik

Shelter staff and reputable breeders are invaluable resources when selecting the right cat for your family. They spend significant time with the cats, observing their behaviors, temperaments, and unique quirks. By sharing details about your lifestyle, preferences, and home environment, they can recommend a cat that aligns with your needs. Asking about the cat’s history, health, and personality helps you make a well-informed decision. Reputable breeders can also provide detailed background information, including lineage and health screenings. Their insights not only guide you in finding a compatible companion but also help ensure a smooth transition into your home and a lasting, harmonious bond.

12. Prepare For Long-Term Commitment

A close-up of an elderly couple lovingly holding a fluffy ginger cat
freepik/Freepik

Cats are long-term companions, often living 10–20 years, and they require a significant commitment of time, money, and love. Before bringing a cat into your life, carefully evaluate your readiness to provide consistent care throughout your lifetime. This includes budgeting for regular vet visits, vaccinations, and unforeseen medical expenses. Factor in the ongoing costs of food, litter, and supplies, as well as potential lifestyle adjustments to accommodate their needs. Thoughtfully considering these responsibilities ensures a stable, loving environment for your feline friend and sets the foundation for a lifelong bond filled with joy, companionship, and shared memories.

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