We have what we call Puspins (short for 'pusang pinoy' or Filipino cat) in our country but I've been wondering if being a certain breed had anything to do with its behavior. We've been considering getting a cat to help scare away rats and mice and for that, I suppose we'd need an aggressive cat. At the same time, I want a cat that we can get along with, especially one that's good around kids. I really want my son to enjoy having a pet here at home because it's a good opportunity to teach him how to be a responsible pet owner. What breed would you recommend that would be a good friendly house cat?
Choosing a cat breed based on breed only is tricky and doesn't guarantee a perfect match so one shouldn't restrict himself to certain breeds. A cat for interaction with kids should readily display affection. Purring is a good sign. Cats should not nip or scratch. Anyway, I would have Abyssinian as my preferred choice. Its an affectionate, loyal and demanding breed and they are also muscular. This is necessary so as to handle the inevitable rigours of playing with children. They have a thick dense shorthaired coats which require very little crushing and rarely need a bath.
Pretty much any cat will make a good mouser. If mice are available, a cat will hunt them and it doesn't really make a difference what temperament the animal has, he will try to hunt mice. So the main thing for you to consider is how laid back and easy going the cat is. Children tend to 'maul' cats a lot. They hug too hard, they pull tails and they just basically do everything that annoys the 9 lives out of most cats. But there are cats out there who don't mind when little ones do such things and would even fight to the death to protect that child. So look for a cat who doesn't frighten easily, acts calm no matter what you do, and is not alarmed at the very sight of your child coming at him. Any cat breed can produce such a kitty so all you have to do is look around. If you are allowed to pet the cat in question and interact with him before adopting him, so much the better. A cat who purrs readily and looks happy to have you around is a good choice. On the other hand, a cat who jumps back, grimaces or looks startled is a poor choice. If he runs and hides, or growls when you touch him, then he is not a good idea for a child's pet. Make sure also, that you pick a kitty who is strong and healthy. If his fur looks matted and greasy, that means he is not grooming himself and that's a sign of illness. If his eyes are watering or he's coughing a lot, those are also signs of illness. If he scratches at the same ear a lot, he probably has ear mites and those will irritate him until they are treated and that will make him irritable with your child as well. So... healthy, strong and happy are key. Definitely choose the most laid-back cat you can find.
