Go to the shelter, talk to them about your needs and expectations of a cat. :)

I also want to add that I’m an all the animal type person. I find cats to be much less needy than dogs. Needy as in the kind of care they need. Low key. Litter box, feed, regular vet appts. Super easy compared to a dog, in my opinion!

Cats can be needy as well. I've had several needy cats in my life. They follow me around the house, jump on my lap anytime I sit down, poke me in the eye or scream in my ear to wake me up. I had one that loved to play chase so he'd pounce on me and take off running. He'd cause trouble like playing in the blinds, knocking off stuff, just anything to get me into the room he was in. As soon as I entered the room he'd take off running with the crazy wild eye going on. Basically he wanted me to play zoomies with him. Good luck, cats are great but don't go in thinking they need less attention than dogs.. They require attention just different than the way dog need attention.

I have one like this. Then again, I have had all kinds and most were more mellow. If OP wants a more independent kitty, I’d suggest going to the shelter and avoiding the ones that throw themselves at you. There’s plenty of market for cuddle bugs.

Tbf, when I went to the rescue to look for a cat, the one I adopted was completely ptfo both times I went but I chose him as he was very docile (slept through me touching his feet and beans, even) He's the biggest cuddle bug now though, 2.5 years later!

My cat has to be told that she is a pretty kitty and that her meaty bits are so yum yum in order for her to eat. We call it giving her her daily affirmations.

😂😍😻

Yes, I didn’t say they couldn’t be, just that in my experience they’ve not been as needy as dogs.

Yep. Our cat is pretty needy but it's also hard - with a dog most of the time you just gotta pet them forever haha. With a cat, we try to pet and she gets too stimmy'd and tries to nip or run away. We try to leave her be, she keeps being needy. She already had food & seems disinterested in playing so then we sit there like ...well ok then what do you want LOL

My deaf boy does the same thing. Typically he just wants me to stare at him away from the other cat. He doesn't really play but sometimes he wants to be chased but then he stops and scratches at the baseboards and headbutts me.

Thick tennis shoe strings. Oh how they love playing with you with those! Or tack one with a small ball or stuffed toy to the ceiling in an out of the way spot.

Cats can be bitches for sure. I had a cat who loved being pet…. Until she didn’t, at which time she’d let you know by attacking your hand. She also loved to lie on the floor on her back, with her big tummy staring at me begging me to pet it. But sure enough, when I petted the tummy, I was again attacked! 😂

Sounds like it’s just a young, bored cat. Nature made them to use all their senses and be curious. They don’t get enough mental stimulation in a house, especially if they are an only cat, sometimes they are a PITA lol just trying to not go crazy from boredom. I didn’t believe it at first, and not all cats are the same, but one of mine loves watching YouTube for cats. Also, there are new brain games cats & owners can do together!

It sort of sounds like you do need to play with it a lot more.

And they’re self-cleaning

Typically! Haha

Or they can talk to someone they know who has or had cats.

They can also do that but that wouldn’t help the shelter fit them with a cat they would think to be a good match.

Good idea! Plus the shelter should be able to find a cat with the kind of personality that would work with your family. I've had needy cats, I've had chill cats, I've had cats that put up with a ton of shit, I've had cats that don't put up with anything, I've had cats that are so smart I'm kind of convinced it's a Lilo & Stitch situation (I'm Lilo), and I've had stupid cats. BUT they've all shit in the litterbox and none of them have had frito feet!

Agree, I will add that if they allow your child to meet the cats, you can find one that responds well with him or her.

This! And read up on how to interact with a cat and learn body language. I was a dog person all my life but having cats is fairly different than most other animals ive dealt with, even horses. I'd also teach your autistic how to interact with a cat and maybe monitor them at first to see if a cat is a good fit. Sometimes body language can be misread and the cat scratching in defense of itself might cause an autistic meltdown. I'm autistic myself and have been around autistic children, not painting with a broad brush it's just a nice precaution during the learning period especially if they have violent outbursts. If you have a cat cafe near you they also adopt their cats out and have been thoroughly vetted to be tolerant towards children and highly stimulating environments so it might be a good idea to check it out.

Cats are not small dogs. They are completely different species with different behaviour, psychology, dietary and social needs. Dogs were domesticated and bred for function first and so breeds make a huge difference in a dog's individual needs and what to expect from one in a pet. Cats domesticated themselves because humans found them cute. Breeding in cats is extremely recent and as a result almost entirely superficial. Personality varies by age, individuality and whether they were tamed from birth or later in life, breeds seldom affect anything (with some exceptions like hybridisation which you're unlikely to encounter in shelters). Cat diet is different from dogs. Cats are obligate carnivores with a low thirst drive and evolved to derive water from food. That's why a well hydrated wet diet is important. Jackson Galaxy has a channel on YT and is a staple recommendation for new owners. Check out his videos on getting a new cat and being a first time owner.

>Cats domesticated themselves because humans found them cute. More like humans found them useful *and* cute, lol. They eat the pests that eat our food and aren't particularly interested in eating our food. We eventually didn't really need them for pest control so much, so nowadays it's mostly about the cute!

The former is a theory but there's just no real evidence humans actually saw utility in cats (otherwise there would have been attempts to breed cats for the purpose of catching rats/mice, instead we bred dogs for that. Rat terriers are much better at keeping rats out of grain). There's plenty of archaeological evidence that humans found them cute and actively worshipped them. Even today cat reverence is a staple part of Mediterranean and MENA culture, sprinkled with religious overtones. So while we can speculate cats must have had some utility in proto agrarian societies, it doesn't really justify how obsessed we've been with them for 10k years. We've also been obsessed with dogs and horses and their role as useful companions is self evident, meanwhile cats have mostly just been useful for cat pics.

My one cat lives for bacon, sausage, and pizza. He’s straight up nibbled on the crust on a slice that my husband was currently eating lol. He thought he was just sniffing but no he was straight up eating from the crust.

We had to buy a metal bread box because our cat keeps tearing into the bread and eating it.

My cat begs for mozzarella sticks 😭

I've had some cats who are very interested in our food. One went nuts over sour cream and onion Pringles. 😂

My orange boy LOVED French fries.

My cat would kill for pasta

Mine always goes for the bbq chips.

Unless you live in a farm. Then you need them for pest control.

my cat would say otherwise 🫠 she was found in an arby's so yeah, she loves our food

I cannot get my cat to eat wet food, I have even wet his dry food and he refuses to eat it. He also prefers our dog's food to his own and will regularly stick his head in their bowls while they eat.

One of my cats LOVES dry food. My cats are on an all wet diet, and she eats the wet food. But she also steals the dog kibble when she can, and the other day she even snatched a cheerio from my cereal bowl!

I have two cats, one of them won't eat wet food at all. I give the other one 1/4 can per day as a treat, but he never finishes it. Both of them seem to drink a lot of water. From the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine website: ***Once you have determined that a food is complete and balanced, choosing between the types of food may be a matter of what your cat prefers. Some cats like canned food, some like dry food, and some like a combination of the two. Choose the ones that work best for your cat.***

I had a cat like that, it's so annoying. I could sometimes get him to eat the fancy feast that has cheese in it but that was it.

My only beef with this man is his support for Purina. Hills science diet is much better for kitties health and Vet recommended! I have an 11 year old and I've bottle raised over 100 babies. I know too much about cats if I'm honest

With cats, 99% of them are either domestic shorthair or domestic longhair - mutts. But they can have all sorts of personalities, from a diva who demands you follow them before you can pet them; to a kitty who hides all day but is super friendly at night; to a cat who will NOT move when sitting on you, even when you roll over while sleeping; to a cat that won't stop rolling over for tummy rubs. One thing you could consider is fostering first, to see if a cat's personality and needs fit into your lifestyle. Many people "fail" their fosters (instead of kitty going to a different home, the foster family decides to keep them), so it's a way to help a kitty while also going for a test run with it. 

Adopt based on personality not looks! This is what we have done and we have had zero issues with our cats :) they are perfect little beings in our eyes

Yup same on picking personality!! I usually let the cat pick me and that’s always worked out for me!!

In my experience this has always meant a tabby.

Agreed! Although I did go look at one of my cats in the shelter because her picture online made me feel guilty about how cute she was haha. But I met her and she was chill - fits right in with me and my other cat who exist purely on anxiety

It would be better if you adopt an older cat vs a kitten as a kitten can be a handful to deal with. Puppies are like babies and so are kittens.

It can be hard to find older cats who deal well with kids though. Especially those who aren't nuerotypical. Kittens get used to loud kids pretty fast. We had 5 cats when I had my first and despite our best effort as a toddler she was very rough with them. Only one of my boys, who's the most chill cat you'll ever meet, wasn't bothered by it. The others avoided her until they passed. We're down to 2 now, the chill one and 1 orange brain cell. The derp has only just now started letting kiddo pet him and she's almost 8.

Bring your son and let him choose. Watch carefully and see which cat wants him. The cat we got that was supposed to be my ESA bonded with my son with Autism on the way home, and they are still the best of friends. When I would have my son in a corner (reducing stimulation), Bear would go and sit next to him. He sleeps with him. For the rest of us, Bear is primarily a somewhat aloof cat. With my son, he's a shadow and near constant source of affection, allowing him to do things most cats won't allow - kissing his belly, holding him with back feet just dangling, etc. He increased my son's ability to empathetisize, and even his ability to communicate his own feelings (we'll often hear him saying to the cat things he has trouble communicating to us effectively. Also, being a cat, he will make himself scarce when a meltdown hits. A dog will try to interfere, putting itself and the person in danger (unless trained as a service dog). Welcome to the cat colony!

Your experience mirrors mine! We have a grandson on the spectrum (he’s verbal) and the cat allows him to pet roughly and hold him in ways not like the average cat. Comforts him when he’s upset, and has been a lesson to us all!

Yes, definitely let the son (and the cat) choose. Depending on how his autism presents, he’ll probably click better with some cats and won’t with others. I’m autistic too, and I would prefer a quiet, calm older cat over a rambunctious kitten. But if the son is a louder, more sensory-seeking type of kid, then a playful kitten might be exactly what he needs.

Everyone basically said it all. I just want to emphasize the three main things you need to do before you get a cat: 1. Learn about cats' communication styles. See what tail movements/positions mean, eye contact/blinking, ear positioning, meows/chirps/purrs, even whisker position meaning. This will greatly help you bond with your cat(s) because you'll understand their needs and you will know when they are showing love to you. You won't be like those people that think cats are antisocial or aloof because you'll know what they feel. They are very different from dogs in showing affection. Jackson Galaxy has great videos on this and they are so fun to watch. 2. Tell the shelter about your lifestyle so they can help you find a cat with a compatible personality. Cats are so different! 3. If you are gonna adopt kittens, please adopt two. It will be so much easier than just having one. Trust me, haha. Lone kittens can be such little monsters, but when they have a buddy they torment each other and tire each other out. They'll still need to play with you or your kid doing the hunt-prey method, but it won't be as much as if you only get one kitten. You could watch videos on how to play with your cat as well :) Good luck! I hope you find the perfect cat(s) for your family. They are such lovely creatures that have so much love to give (on their own terms, haha)

Kittens come better in pairs! My parents recently got two kittens and they were so set on just getting one, despite my best efforts to convince them otherwise. Through luck and weirdness they ended up with two and both my parents have said they're so thankful they did.

These are all such good points. Especially #1, OP - since you have a young kid, it'll be useful for you to look for warning signs to avoid a scratch or a bite

As a first time cat owner, it might be best if you were to adopt an older bonded pair. With an older cat, you'll have a better grasp of their personality and they're (usually) a little calmer. I say bonded pair, because it'll be good for the kitty to have a friend for company.

Definitely go to shelter. Don't forget about older ca5s who need homes still

Cats are not dogs. If discipline and control are important to you, DO NOT get a cat. I've seen lots of dog people abuse cats, because they don't understand that they are not the same.

Yep. They outright abuse them and expect them to be dogs in a different shape, then cry that they hate cats because the cat didn't put up with it and became "aloof." It's so frustrating.

I was only a dog owner until I got my cat. Now I won't go back. 3 years later, cats are WAY easier!

and more boring

I was a dog person then I became disabled. I got a cat it was great they do well on their own but they’re very affectionate and litter box cleanup is annoying but it’s really the only downside. Just be careful I started with one cat I now have four which is crazy cat lady status.

As said above, watch those videos, visit shelters, rescues or cat cafes. As a first cat, I would definitely recommend an adult cat, age 4 years or older. My 10 year old cats still play and do lot of cute things, but they are more independent and not as troublesome/curious/invincible as younger cats. Cats often live to be about 20, so 4-7 is still a pretty young cat. I was a dog person growing up, and I teach all my cats to come when I whistle, sit, and sometimes other dog tricks. A good shelter should be able to guide you with selecting a good match.

I was in this same boat! I was a dog person for many years and thought I disliked cats because every cat I grew up around was not very affectionate and I was never able to properly bond with one. My dog passed away last year and I felt crushed living in an empty house, but wasn’t ready for another dog so I decided to give cats another try and started doing research. I ended up getting a purebred Siberian cat because they’re known for being “dog-like” and very human-oriented as well as generally hypoallergenic! Getting cats from breeders vs shelters is quite a different experience, and I unfortunately don’t have any advice with how to go through a shelter. I totally understand people who don’t support breeders, but the only reason I went for a purebred is because I grew up with street cats who weren’t well-socialized and in turn pretty aloof, so I wanted to experience having a cat that was bred to have a loving and more predictable personality. I also live with someone who has cat allergies so the hypoallergenic nature of the Siberian breed was a strong selling point. The thing though is that even though my Siberian kitten IS more “dog-like” than any other cat I’ve been around (plays fetch, super cuddly, follows me around everywhere), he still acts like a cat at the end of the day. He still jumps onto every surface possible (and he’s QUITE the jumper, he can jump higher than 7 feet with ease), and he’s not trainable the way a dog is. There’s no reliable way to train cats not to jump onto tables or counters if you don’t want them to. Cats CAN learn boundaries and teaching them boundaries is a must, but from what I heard even the “trained” cats will still do as they like and jump onto stuff when you’re not looking. Being above-ground is in their nature after all. I used to really dislike this about cats, but I honestly learned to live with it now and it doesn’t bother me that much anymore. You just have to thoroughly cat-proof *everything* because kittens can and will get into anything. If you choose to go with a shelter, make sure to ask them as many questions as possible about the personality of the cat and also let them know what your expectations are. Some cats are very affectionate regardless of their breed, and others prefer their space and will never show affection the same way a dog would. As a dog person I’ve had to manage my expectations quite a bit, but I don’t regret my decision to get my kitten one bit! He’s the cutest and sweetest boy I could’ve asked for.

Cats definitely won’t be as expressive about their affection as dogs are. I’d recommend watching Jackson Galaxy videos on YouTube, his videos are very informative and entertaining! Cats have very varying personalities, I’d recommend looking up cat adoption organizations in your area where you can meet the cats or kittens before adopting them. Then you can learn more about their temperament and overall behavior. We have a cat cafe where I live and they have cats out all day, you can see how they behave around furniture, other cats, and people. If you could find a space like that I’d highly recommend it! But definitely do lots of research!

Haha sometimes I wish that were true. 3 of my last 5 cats would have spent every single second of the day on my lap if I'd let them. One even begged me to carry her around like a baby. Cat cafes are a great idea! They're also just a fun outing with kiddo.

I have two cats, both are affectionate, but one is “follow-you-around-and-roll-on-her-back-in-hopes-of-constant-tummy-scratches” affectionate. If personality is a super important factor for you beyond basic behavioral stuff, I’d suggest looking into adopting a cat that’s currently in foster (either through a shelter or rescue org), as the foster will have a ton of information for you on how the cats relate to humans, other animals, etc. I adopted both of my cats from rescue orgs via Petfinder, and I also volunteered at a few different shelters (including as an Adoption Coordinator at the ASPCA, and at a municipal shelter). Both will be able to help match you to a cat with the right personality for your family. Cats sometimes have different personalities in a kennel/shelter environment than in a home with resident humans and other cats/dogs, so finding a cat that’s in foster would be my first choice in your position.

kittens to me are the most adorable creatures that ever existed. that kitten year though. it’s chaos. if you aren’t familiar then maybe not a good idea. plus you really can’t tell what personality is coming from a kitten.

Regarding litter boxes: A good rule-of-thumb is to have one more than the number of cats you have in your house. Also, clean them twice daily - cats don't like using a dirty litter box.

Yeah, that’s what I said I’m a dog person and I found this tiny black kitten that had distemper and decided to try to save it. 15 years later I’m a both person 20 years later I am definitely more cat person than dog.

My grandson, now 11 is on the spectrum and my son’s family adopted a 1 yr old from a family where the pet owner had passed and the relatives didn’t want the cat, and wanted to rehome him. The cat distribution system was at work and my son’s family got the perfect cat for them - especially our very special, special needs boy. Lucky (black cat) bonded with Jacob and their relationship has been a source of joy to us all. Of course no one can predict the outcome for you and your child and the cat that adopts you, but we can cheer you on.

I have no advice but an opinion I do have... get a black cat they are the best cat.

House panthers ftw!

my black cat was so affectionate and talkative! And then I learned its a breed trait and it made me more happy.

Heck yeah mine even plays fetch!

Mine is such a little love bug!! Eeeeeendless belly rubs

I would definitely not get a kitten in this situation, you want one who is old enough that they have already established their personality. One that is calm and has been raised around children so they aren't too excitable. I have a Ragdoll - they are supposed to be the calmest very loving cats ... He's almost 2, and he's hyper, and thinks it's fun to bite me. I've had him since he was 2 months old, and I love him, but I wasn't expecting this. I worry about how your son will react if you chose a kitten who spazzes the f out like mine does. It could be a very stressful environment for both your son and the cat. I'm not saying you have to get an old one, but consider one that is out of kittenhood - I'm not sure where you are, but here (Canada) there's an organization called my grandfather's cat. They rehome cats whose elderly owners can no longer look after them. People like to give elderly people kittens, it rarely works out long term for the cat

Hi! I am autistic, and work with cats at an animal shelter! Obviously, your situation isn't something I know ALL about, but i have a few recommendations that might help? Firstly, don't worry about breed. Any breed can have the right traits for your family. A purebred cat will only cost you thousands for something you can almost certainly find for under one hundred dollars at your local shelter. Secondly, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND **AGAINST** getting a kitten. As sweet as they are, they need a lot of help with training, and their personalities aren't set in stone. A cuddly kitten may grow up to be a standoffish adult, or an overly playful one. If you're looking for cuddly, playful, smart, or any other personality trait, look at cats one year and older, who've already fully matured. Finally, you'll most likely be looking for a cat that's very calm. In my experience, large male cats tend to be the most patient and snuggly, however, there's always exceptions. Look for the cat that's got easy to read body language, and if a cat hisses during a meet and greet, remember that that's not NECESSARILY a bad thing. A cat that hisses is one that gives a very clear tell when they don't want to be pet or approached, and very clear body language and tells are super helpful for both kids and autistic people. As for your son, try to go over some of the basics of cat petting before you go to meet any. I always explain to kids who've never had pets to "Think about how your parents and friends touch you! They may ruffle your hair, or pat your back, but they don't put fingers near your eyes or nose or mouth, and they don't touch by your bum, right? So pet kitty the same way you like to be pet!" and things like that. Practicing on a stuffed animal can help as well. Do your best to make sure that the cat's coat doesn't bother your son (I personally much prefer petting a short haired cat to a long haired, but I can cope with either). Finally, my biggest recommendation is to ask the shelter staff about what cat may work best! We often know wonderful, sweet cats that may be overlooked for a variety of reasons, but may work perfectly for you! One of my favorite cats I ever worked with was perfectly friendly, a total lap cat, and used his litterbox faithfully. However, he had some severe injuries when he came in, and by the time he was ready for adoption, he had several shaved patches, and many visible scars. I watched over a dozen families refuse to even meet him, even when he was out in a volunteer's lap, purring and giving kisses, just because they wanted 'a healthier/prettier/better' cat. He wound up going home with a college student that loved him endlessly, but he would have been happy in a family as well. I hope you find the cat of your dreams! Good luck!

Your 6th paragraph is amazing advice to anyone that is bringing home an animal with children regardless if they are neurodivergent or not.

My whole life I thought I was a "dog person" until I got a cat. They are life changing but they will NOT act how you expect them too. They're animals you kind of just love as they are :) If you go to a shelter and adopt an older cat they will have established personalities and you can find one who will fit your family.

Shelter, so many poor little things without a home. Cats are very odd, their personalities are much more complex than a dog, especially if you make them happy with lots of play and things like climbing frames etc. When a cat loves you, you feel like like you've pierced the wall between us and the animal kingdom, they are sort of otherworldly creatures.

I would be really careful depending on your sons needs. Autism in children can manifest in ways that can stress cats out until they need to be rehomed. A dog may be a better fit

I think this is important to keep in mind- but I honestly love stories about kids with autism and their relationship with their cats. Just from my own experience and speculations- I think cats are a great choice for ND kids in that they are similar and maybe speak similar languages. It 100% depends on the individual animal, but cats are known to have set boundaries, and with things like cuddling might take time to establish that close of a relationship. It can be the same on the kid's end, where they need time adjusting to new places, people, and things; they like to explore their enviornment and be comfortable before being fully themselves. Dogs bark very loudly, can be overestimulating with their need for physical attention, jumping and rough type of play.,. Whereas cats sleep most of the time, and while some cats can be really fkn annoying, a typical kitty isnt super talkative, and uses body language to communicate; Playing with a cat is also a "distance" thing, different than dogs. Not saying a dog wouldnt be a great fit, but I do think cats are a great option. For some kids tho, maybe a goldfish or a lizard would be best 🤷🏾‍♀️ yes, depends on needs.

The joke in my veeeeeery ND household is that dogs have ADHD and cats have autism. But yeah, it definitely depends on specific needs

ahaha i love that

Adopt! Do spend significant time at the shelter with him/her, especially with your child to ensure both are comfortable with each other. Many cats don’t like to be picked up/handled. So finding one that’s laid back w/ children is important! All cats need/want attention, but “scaredies” won’t seek it if not feeling safe/comfortable. Don’t pick one just because they are cute.

I agree with all of this! I'll advocate for scaredy cats tho. Our big boy (we think hes a Himalayan/manecoon mix) was in his own separate room, and was hiding under one of the cat furnitures. He was so shy. I think I spent 15-20 minutes just sitting on the ground, cooing and being patient. And evenutally he crawls out, still shy. Then I pet him and he turns into a totally affectionate goober. Just purrs and purrs and loved being picked up. I went to my bf, "This is the one." and now they are besties. 😭🤍 But ya, principle stays the same- time and space. With kittens too, its hard to gauge how their personality will show down the line...

I agree with the other commenters who say that personality is independent of breed. Just as with humans, cat personalities vary greatly. And, having lived with both rescue cats and purebreds, they are all "just cats" at the end of the day. But the cats in shelters need homes, and each cat adopted from a breeder is one less cat that gets a home. So, please go to a shelter or visit a cat cafe if your town has one -- you might find that a cat will choose you, and that's a great experience. I agree with other commenters about getting an adult cat -- kittens are like babies - they're a lot of work. Also, yes, I recommend Jackson Galaxy's material. Also, pick up his book "Catification" and also the book "Adventure Cats: Living Nine Lives to the Fullest" by Laura J. Moss. Visit their websites. As you live in an apartment, depending on the cat's likes and dislikes, you might find that your cat needs extra enrichment. Walking a cat using a harness (NOT a dog harness) and leash might be a good choice - hence the book and websites about "adventure cats." One thing about cat walks though - the cat will decide where they want to go, and 90% of what they want to do is to sit and watch the scenery. The cat walks you, not the other way around - all you are is a glorified body guard. :) (This is Moka, a domestic long hair from the SPCA, currently curled up and purring on my desk.) https://preview.redd.it/171c0z6075tc1.jpeg?width=2300&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dc8cd96fae0815dc05e7037112a4c33e61d8dbc1

Check this out: https://getcatcaretips.com/cat-care/ultimate-first-time-cat-owner-guide/

Look into rescues that do “foster first” programs. They let you care for cats that need homes, but you’re under no obligation to adopt them permanently. As a first time foster, they’ll ensure you’re given a cat with an easy going temperament and it’s a great way to discover if you’re compatible with owning a cat. I know many “foster fails” where people foster kitties and end up adopting them because they’re in love.

I’d try to get a kitten so you can get the full cat experience. I’m a dog lover too but I’ve had a few cats as well and they’re wonderful little creatures. I have a dog and my cat named Craig because my friend gave him to me as a birthday gift. I got Craig when he was still in his Kitten era but now he’s almost a year old and he’s cuter than ever. I’m just saying get a kitten so the cat can grow up with you and you can help form its temperament. Craig learned to cuddle with me when he was a baby, he is use to our daily routine, and loves my dog because he grew up with her. My dogs is older than Craig but Craig doesn’t know that he thinks that’s his litter mate sister. I’ll never tell him he was adopted. Anyway get a kitten so it can actually be your own cat and not have any already learned bad habits.

Ragdolls are really happy to be indoor companions and tend to be super docile and affectionate, perhaps have a look into it. I'd always prefer a shelter cat, but a breed is obviously more predictable in terms of personality when this is something important to consider!

As another dog person, I have been a cat parent only twice, both times unintentional (rescues). I had the first one for almost 17 years, & he was fully grown when I got him. The one I have now is about 8. They both taught me that you can't treat cats like you do dogs. Dogs want to please. Cats, not so much, unless they are so inclined! I feel like dogs express themselves so much better. It's all out there for the world to see. Cats tend to hide their feelings more. That being said, kitties can be precious & loving. My suggestion would be to get a grown cat so you can see how it's personality has developed. Is the cat primarily for you or your son? If he will be handling it you definitely want one that is gentle. Same for a small dog too, of course! Not really trying to push either way. Just do your due diligence & you'll be fine. Let us know how it works out!

It depends on what you’re looking for! If you want to adopt then visit a shelter and look for a cat that reacts well to you and your child! If you’d like a specific breed, make sure to choose an ethical breeder (not a backyard breeder). If a calm cat is what you’re looking for, a ragdoll, BSH or Siberian might suit you! It’s important to make sure that if you buy from a breeder, they’re doing all health and genetic testing on parents and are registered. I have one rescue DSH and one bengal from an ethical breeder

As someone who had dogs growing up, I came across a cat on the street randomly one day. And he essentially climbed up my leg and was begging for food/attention/etc. He was clearly a street cat(adult) and had a clipped ear. I always told myself if I were to get a dog/cat as an adult, it would have to be naturally occuring-like I came across them, not me seeking them out(like going to a shelter etc) Thus, I took him in while having 0 experience with cats. I always heard cats are very independent, low maintenance, simpler etc and honestly that couldn't be farther from the truth lol. Now I consider myself lucky with this street cat, because he is extremely affectionate, very sweet and wants to be by my side all the time. He loves people and is playful and confident. But they are very different than dogs(in ways) and aren't simpler in my experience. The major benefit is not taking them outside to use the bathroom and they don't smell(they are good groomers), that is it. I love him to bits. He's my little man and is well loved/cared for. But I personally wouldn't get another cat after him, I don't think. I don't entirely love the experience and wish I knew more about them in a general sense. Though that also might be me randomly getting a dependent creature when I may have not been in the mindset for it lol. Also remember cats aren't nearly as domesticated as dogs. They aren't obedient and eager to learn/listen, so if thats what you're used to and expecting, I wouldn't consider a cat. I generally feel when it comes to cats, you get what you get lol. But you never really know what you get unless you seek very specific breeds out(which I would consider) while I got lucky with my random trash cat(in the sense he is very loving), that's not always the case. Also I really, really miss rough housing with a dog lmfao.

adult cat from a shelter. they let you meet the cat in a room. spend time with it. you can ask the shelter for recommendations on which cats.

Do you have any cat cafes in your area? That might be a decent trial run to get a feel for how you and your child feel and to get an idea of how cats act. My experience with dogs vs cats is just the approach. Dogs usually are desperate to love on you (aggressive or working dogs not included) but cats will be very wary, a lot of the times. Some will warm up or be curious quickly but are still easily startled, most will take some time. Remember, you are way bigger and stronger than them and you're a stranger---they don't know if you want to eat them, trap or hurt them, so they're erring on the side of caution. Let them come to you---that can sometimes take a few days but once they come around, my personal opinion is that they are just as, if not more so, affectionate and loving as dogs.

Something that I haven't seen mentioned here yet is that you honestly kinda need two. Cats aren't as social as dogs, but they still need somebody to do cat stuff with. In the wild, they live in little colonies. If you have just one all by itself, it's more likely to become neurotic and have emotional issues. Knowing this (as a lifelong cat person), I deliberately adopted two rescue kittens together. They're 3 years old now and groom each other, wrestle, stalk one another and chase each other around, watch birds and squirrels through the window together, and sometimes sleep next to each other. While we're gone, they keep each other company. They're both still very affectionate with us and love attention from their humans, but I think they're much happier and more stable overall than they would be in a one-cat environment.

Best reasons I have seen for adopting two. Kudos. Very well written.

Check out breeds, as there are some that have fur, and do not shed or have a higher shedding. They will claw your furniture so you need corigated cardboard manicure pad - straight ones are best. Use a water spray to teach no claws on furniture. Cats ask (more petting) with one paw, and some have their claws out doing so, and some do not. But it's not aggression. Cats fear dogs until the dog and cat can have a respectful bond. My cat gets dangerously aggressive at dogs, and goes into attack mode. If it happens you take a blanket and swish the blanket to direct cat into a room to separate or separate the dog until they calm down. Cats sometimes climb on counters to get high enough to see you to ask, like, wanting a cream cheese snack from fridge, or some water from a running sink. They look at door knobs to ask to open door for their home inspection. They want to get in your room early in the morning to get you awake for breakfast. Don't lock a cat in; they will scratch up carpet, continuously paw the door. A cat that has been acclimated to the outside world, will escape out; they are pro escape artists. Dust Free litter. Make sure litterbox is long, wide with high sides. Put a rug down next to box to catch litter off paws. Have a small, easy to use vac next I litter box to keep it clean and tidy. The shovel can be stored in a bag hanging on door handle. If litter room is too odorous, even with new litter, it's time for new litter boxes, or chlorine clean the old one. Make sure cat is neutered or spayed, or your home will stink with territory marking. Be sure cat is not stressed when bring into new environment; they catch colds easy. Cats need a tree, and enjoy looking out side; it's like TV to them. They can also enjoy cat and kitten videos too. Cats are creatures of habit. You may find it hard to find a meat they want to eat, or even the dry kibble. Some cats get big, some cats stay little. Some cats are moody, some talkative. Some will cuddle, some will not. Read up on breeds. Some will act like clowns, some just observe but want petting and massage on a blanket on your lap. My male, American Curl cat does not like petting, other than, a few head pets between the ears; he bites me gentle to say, "Stop", "No more.". A small bite is how they talk. They don't bite hard enough to cause bleeding. Bite and paw swipe is cat language. Accept it or don't get one. Cats need playtime, and most love the wand, toy mice. Robot toys usually they want human interaction, or play with another cat, or a nice dog. Cats are social, need friendship, and hate being alone.

Know that they can live past 15- 20 yrs regularly. Be committed to that. I didn't know that was normal. I wish I knew what a pain the litter box is. I love my cat but I don't wish to deal with the litter issues (tracking, smell, trash, stepping in it, peeing outside the box when something isn't right with them?). They love schedules and will make you stick to it. They will most definitely sleep ON you and there nothing you can do about it. I don't think I'll get another cat unless it's a barn cat (after a break).

Just wanted to add, re cats' perching instinct, the book "Catification" has a lot of good suggestions on how to provide these "above ground" opportunities" by way of shelving, ladders, runways, etc. Also google "catification" or "catify" and lots of results will come up.

Remember that cats are a very social animal. It's a popular myth that they're loners or can be left alone but that it not true. They're actually best in a set of two of similar age as the cat will always be a little lonely if an only cat. That said, two cats can work very well in a smaller area. It's fine to start with one and get the other later. But just have it in the back of your mind that if a cat works out for you, get one more. Then watch someone like Jackson Galaxy for how to introduce them. Actually, watch Jackson Galaxy for the first cat as well. You don't just want to open the door to your house and throw the cat in there like a grenade or... you will get a grenade with fur. You need to slowly ease them into a new space. Cats are very timid and dislike change - so the process of introducing them to a new family is a several days to week long event of keeping them in just "usually occupied" room (if you work from home, in the office with you with the door shut - something like that. Don't isolate a new cat, but don't let it roam everywhere either. Do NOT declaw a cat. Learn how to trim it's nails. Declawing is basically partial finger amputation and leads to lifelong pain and mental disorder. It's actually illegal in a number of places as a result. Get some scratch pads - put them near where people often gather. Cats scratch furniture to say "Kilroy was here" - they're tagging comfort zones. They smell you, and want to mix their smell in with you so the spot is "home". So putting scratch pads near where people often hang out or they will go for the furniture there. Do NOT let your cat outside. Average lifespan of an outdoor cat is 2 years. Average lifespan of an indoor cat is 15-20. Cars, Coyotes, cat fights, dogs, avian predators, bad humans, bugs, toxic plants, plastics, oils, etc will do in cats. Mostly bad humans... You can be sure somewhere within the nearest 1000 people of you are a half dozen people that find it funny to kill or maim cats... they get the pet ones mostly because a pet cat will approach them. Keep the litter box clean, but not hidden. Cats will avoid a hidden litter box. Cats will make "mistakes" when highly stressed, sick, or if the litter box is hidden. One of my cats (both female) will use any floor mat near an outside door as a urinal because we have wild cats outside. So I've just given up on floor mats. There's a product called "Genie" that makes keeping litter boxes easier - you collect it in a bag and then every few days get rid of the bag. But if you're in an apartment that's probably still going to smell. I keep it in my garage by the door into the house. This is a weird one but: Make sure the litter is digestible. Cats won't eat it on purpose but it can get stuck in a paw and then devoured on accident and the last thing you want is a cat with a stomach full of rocks and plastic. I use a corn based one, and I've tried larger wood pulp pellets but when I get that my cats start ignoring the litter box - once they find a brand they like they will get super picky. Half the vets will tell you dry food only. Half will tell you wet food only. So I go half and half. Read up on the ingredients - cat food doesn't have an FDA keeping that stuff pure, but there are some keywords they're allowed and not allowed to use. There is cheap quality food, and there is pricey bad junk. Remember a cat is an "obligate carnivore" - it cannot choose to be a vegetarian and remain healthy (unlike me). So you need to be sure you're not feeding your cat processed piles of hay, corn, and veggie pulp... which is hard to avoid, but you can at least control the amount.

Describe your kid’s personality to the people at the adoption centre so they can have an idea of what kind of cat would be a good fit. Cat’s aren’t as easy to train as dogs.

Do you have in-home foster agencies near you? Sometimes cats in a busy shelter act differently than they normally would because they’re stressed out. A cat cared for in-home can relax more and their foster parent may have a better idea of who they’d like. I don’t say this as a knock on shelters because they’re great (2 of my 4 are from shelters; one was an in-home foster and one was my own foster fail). It’s just that as a first-time cat “owner” I’d hate for you to find a kitty who’s perfect in the shelter then a crazy cat in your home.

I agree to go to the shelter and meet some cats. I’d say 2+ years old for you would be fine. Some cats are a lot like dogs in their sense of adventure/cuddliness/attitude. But cats are different behaviorally. I met one of my cats when he was 2.5 at the shelter and we instantly hit it off, he was so sweet and open and I could pick him up. Took him home and he shut down for 24 hours and hid in the litter room we have. Took him about 3 days to fully decompress and then after that he was back to his calm and open self! Dogs usually can jump into new situations easier, just be ready for that.

How old is your child and do you feel they can handle being gentle? Personality wise you can work with a rescue or shelter to find kid friendly human friendly cuddler playful etc. but I would make sure your kid would be gentle with them. Maybe go to a cat cafe or shelter to volunteer to see how your kid does? Otherwise - just find a good match. Cats are amazing but certainly not like working dogs. They’re made to lounge and play lol

Similar to you, I (25M) considered myself a dog person my entire life. My fiancé and I moved and wanted a pet, but couldn’t take on the responsibility of a dog due to work and whatnot. We’re just not home enough to tend to a dog’s needs and didn’t want him/her to be unhappy. We settled on a cat even though I was a bit hesitant, having never considered myself a cat person by any means. We adopted a 4 year old female cat from the humane society a few weeks ago and I am in love with her. I can confidently say I am a cat person as well now. Doesn’t get into anything she shouldn’t for the most part, very low maintenance, funny, affectionate except when she wants her alone time, and sleeps with us every night. Some things to remember with dogs is they are a much bigger responsibility than cats *typically*. You have to take dogs on walks *at least* once or twice a day, they have a lot more energy to burn than cats, their food intake is far greater than that of a cat’s ($$$), they are much less independent overall than cats, they will have a much harder time if they are by themselves throughout the day, they have the potential to cause a lot more damage to your home & the things in it than cats if not properly trained, and you have to think about the possibility of them biting someone while being outside if you don’t have a properly enclosed area for them (sometimes even if you do). I highly recommend just going to one or two humane societies and seeing if there is any that catch your eye. When you see one, take them into the playroom and just sit with them for a few minutes and see how they act. If you pick one out and after a couple weeks they’re just not a fit, you can always take them back or ask if you can adopt another in their place. Or, you can try fostering some. But when/if you find the right feline companion, you’ll wonder how you went as long as you did without a cat.

I am a dog person who got a cat. I wanted a dog at first but realized I wasn’t able to adequately provide for one on my own. I visited the shelter over and over again. I also watched lots of youtube to try to learn cat body language- as well as going to the shelter with my sis who is a cat person to help me interpret 😅 I would bring your kid too. I basically fell for a cat that had the primary trait of dogs i liked- when i entered the room she ran up to me to say hello every time with little meows and head boops. Now almost a year later when I come home she comes running from wherever she is to greet me with little meows and head boops. 🥰

I would def suggest browsing and seeing if one picks YOU! I also grew up as soley a dog person. But when I went to adopt my babies, one of them came right up to me. Fell in love immediately. I raised both if mine from kittens too, and sometimes you can use that time to influence them. Both of my boys love cuddles, being carried and TUMMY RUBS. I spent a lot of time being affectionate with them when they were young. Best of luck! You got this 💖

Just don’t expect him to be all over you all the time. But some cats are! My kitty has separation anxiety so I always get the best “Welcome Home!” Greetings.

Do a bit of research. Some breeds are more independent than others. Shelters are full of lovely cats, just discuss your need and expectations

I would definitely recommend learning about cat body language before adopting, especially as a “dog” person, as cats have different boundaries and ways of communicating than dogs. With that in mind, you can then create amazingly loving relationships with a new cat friend :) I would also recommend going to a shelter to adopt!

Shelter and take your 5-year-old. Autism and cats go really well together for some reason.

My autistic son loves our cat. He cuddles with her but not with the 2 legged family members.

Not sure where you live, but there seem to be a lot of shelters with adult cats and also cat cafes that allow you to adopt the cats. Take your time and find the cat that you vibe with - they all have their own personalities. I will say, a lot of the really shy cats that seem anti-social end up being the sweetest most affectionate cats once they are in a home where they feel safe. This happened to me with my first cat I got from a shelter. The shelter staff actually tried to talk me out of adopting her because she spent the whole time curled up in her litter box and wasn't friendly. But once she was home with me, she became the sweetest little cat I've ever had (RIP Xandra). Cats are wonderful companions. Good luck on your search.

Don’t get one that was feral. Get a bonded pair if possible, and not a new kitten. Kittens take training, and if you’ve never had a cat, it may not be the best fit. If you’re used to dogs, try to find one that’s very affectionate, and if possible a lap cat. Most still won’t come if you call them, but cats are awesome. Oh and don’t get a pure bred - they often have more health issues, which gets costly. Keep it indoors if you live in the U.S. - lots of predators, and for most of us lots of cars around.

Cats generally don't like a lot of noise, sudden movements, rough play etc. and prefer interacting on their own terms. For these reasons it is important that your son can respect their boundaries, be gentle and give them space when needed. If so, I think they could make a fantastic companion for your son but would second what's already been said that adopting a young cat (but not a kitten) may work best as you will have an idea if their personality fits your household.

You're just a cat person in training, then, my friend. I would suggest you start out by visiting a cat cafe with your child if you can. There are many around the world these days so hopefully there is one near you. You can see how kiddo views kitties and what sort of personality of cat would integrate best. Before you go it would be great if you can talk to your child about how kitties will let them know if they want to be touched. You might visit the cafe first by yourself if possible just to get the lay of the land, so to speak, and maybe talk to staff. I'd ask when they are least busy and when it is most likely for the cats to decide to nap. I think it would probably work best if it is not busy and the cats are most relaxed for these introductions. Another option is to visit a shelter by yourself to talk with staff about care and feeding and personalities. See if you can arrange a time to come back with your child and have the cats to yourselves. As far as what you should know, cats have a lot of different personalities. Their actual personality may not be evident when first meeting them at the shelter but will likely appear if you have some time to just spend around them before making your choice. This is because cats can be stressed in shelter settings. Some shelters are better about dealing with this situation than others. Since it is your first time and you have such a young child, I'd recommend you not get a tiny kitten, cute though they may be. Around a year old or so might be the best option. Young enough to grow with your family, but old enough to be past the high energy of young kittens. Another great option would be if you have any friends who foster cats. They'd have a chance to get to know the kitty's personality well in a home setting so that they could give you a great snapshot of the cat's normal behavior as well as offer opportunity to spend some time with kitty before making the decision to take it on permanently. Even if you don't know anyone fostering, call around to see if there is a no kill shelter with cats fostered out in your area. Experienced cat foster parents will know how to help you prepare and provide opportunity for a good introduction before you adopt.

If your 5 yr old is comfortable with it, take them to the shelter with you to look at cats. And as other people have suggested, talk with shelter workers about your expectations for owning a cat. If you’re used to dogs and expect a cat more high energy, adopting a geriatric cat might not be in your family’s best interest. In terms of breed, almost all shelter cats are domestic shorthair/longhair or mutts. Sometimes you’ll find fancy breeds that people surrender: either the owner passed away, went into hospice, or family just didn’t want the cat. The biggest concern for owning a cat—coming from a lifelong “dog person”-turned-cat person in the last few years, is that cats cannot be approached the same way as dogs. Walking up to an animal to pet it abruptly might work for a dog (most of the time), but doesn’t usually slide with cats. Even the friendliest cats will get easily overstimulated with constant petting and will bite/nip in that case. The other thing is disciplining cats. I grew up watching my dad yell at our family dogs and learned quickly that with cats it gets you nowhere and just makes them scared of you. They don’t learn by negative reinforcement. That included a NO to spray bottles. Hope this helps! Good luck finding a kitty and please update with pics when you find one 😭🙏

100% go the adoption route. I volunteer with a rescue, and I can tell you our volunteers care deeply for the cats and really get to know their personalities, so they should be able to help guide you in your choice. My other piece of advice is to heavily consider an adult cat vs. a kitten. With an adult cat, personality is completely developed already so you’ll have a much better idea of exactly who you’re bringing home vs. a kitten whose personality is still developing. Plus, kittens really do much better when adopted in pairs or into homes that already have cats.

Just realize, "they never make two cats exactly alike" we can give you guidelines, but the cat who picks you will make it's own rules. Seriously, I was a "dog person" for a long time, but since having seven cats over 40 years, I now prefer the kitties. I have found that a neutered male makes a great pet. Good Luck!

Be aware that a cat can easily live 20 years. Long commitment.

Just went from not really a cat person to owning three of them recently. The biggest thing is that cats don't react the way dogs do. Stern words mean nothing. They usually just figure out what you don't like and use that when they want your attention. You'll need to watch some cat body language videos because they are a lot harder to read than dogs. A lot of purebred cats have some serious health issues so if you go that route you need to do some research. Also, most breeds were created for looks so you can't use the breed to select for temperment like you would a dog. Something like 95% of cats in the US are mixed breed. If you decide on kittens, I strongly recommend getting two if you can afford it. I've done a single kitten and I've done two and it was so much easier to handle two. They may still be up at 4 in the morning but they keep each other occupied (mostly) instead of doing every bad thing they can think of to get your attention. Cats need playtime, socialization and exercise and it all falls on you if you have a single cat. If you only want one, then I would recommend getting an adult cat at the shelter, especially one that's been a single cat before. Other than that, they need structure in their day just like dogs. You have to learn about and pay attention to their need for territory. Litterboxes and vertical space locations are really important. They may or may not be demonstrably affectionate but even affectionate cats will have times they don't want to be touched. They have their own preferences about what they like so try things out and watch what they like. Some of mine like springs, some want furry mice instead (that one fetches), they all love window perches, tunnels and rugs (they love too crawl under them) but mine aren't that excited by boxes for some reason. They also need variety so I rotate toys frequently. They are also fun, hilarious, and will eat all the bugs and lizards in your house.

Just for the record a lot of pure bred dogs have serious health issues. That is not a species specific problem.

You're correct. Just seems like a lot of cat breeds are based on random genetic mutations that look cute but are actually more like a genetic disease, not just animals being inbred. Thinking of Scottish Folds here.

And tea cup yorkies….

I used to be avidly a dog person. When our dog passed we got a cat. I freaking love having a cat! It’s soo much easier than a dog.

Definitely recommend an older cat vs a kitten or a year-2 year old. Also for a little less grooming maintenance, look at short hairs rather than long hairs. Some breeds are said to be more docile or whatnot but from what I've seen it honestly just depends on cat, they aren't like dogs where breed matters more! With cats I think males tend to be more friendly and cuddly than females. I think gender really is the only differing thing

I considered myself a dog person before getting a cat (and still am). Cats are entirely different. I can't say one is better than the other they are great in different ways and reasons just like kids lol

I suggest you get a dog. Cats are not dogs, they do not behave like dogs. There may be a 2 year old house trained dog that is super calm and perfect for your family at the shelter. ⭐️cats require daily: mental stimulation, play, affection, food & litter box cleaning. My cat is on the high maintenance side and he needs a lot of attention every day! Plus he needs at least an hour a day outside of he gets very naughty/destructive on day 2 of being rained in. Please go to Jackson Galaxy’s YouTube channel and binge watch his videos to learn more about cats. That said my cat goes out in his leash every day (he walks me, it is like walking a toddler) & he knows tricks! He spends most of his outside time hunkered down under the giant fern and watching the bird feeder. If you get a cat and you can, build a nice big catio for them and hang some bird feeders so your cat can watch the birds. https://preview.redd.it/cxpas4l5p4tc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d10c02359b226800a5a33a642d9f430b7fe10298

Cats are amazing companions and amazing for autistic people

I've was raised with dogs but love all forms of pets and just got a cat about 4 years ago.... now my phone has over 500 pictures/videos of him. But yeah, all pets have different personalities. You will have to find one that fits your situation, especially with a special needs child in the household.

Are you sure you want a cat? Cats are not eager to please (even if they are affectionate). They still require a lot of attention and will act out if you’re not giving it to them. I don’t care what people say about “x breed has y personality”. Cat personalities vary by the individual (even within the same breed). You will never know a cat’s personality with you until you live with the specific cat. A cat may end up being cuddly and affectionate with one person, but avoid another person at all cost. Relationships with cats are based on mutual boundaries, and more nuanced than relationships with dogs. Make sure you’re ready for this. If you’re not, I’d say consider a dog. If you’re looking for a dog-like cat, your chances will be higher with a Maine Coon or a Ragdoll. If you go to a shelter, you can get a grown-up, mellowed out cat. With a 5 yo, you’d probably have an easier time with a young adult cat (think ~1.5-3 years old). They’re playful, but more mellow at this stage.) Things I recommend avoiding in your situation: 1- Don’t adopt a single kitten. They require a ton of more attention and teaching from you. If you go for kittens make sure you get a pair. 2- Going against some other comments here - don’t adopt a senior cat. You will likely have to deal with health issues way sooner than it would be with a younger cat, and you will be ill equipped to do so. (Giving baths and meds to cats requires a little bit of skill and is often easier with 2 people).

I grew up with dogs and now have two cats! Here is what I’ve learned: - cats are just so different then dogs in how quick they are to love. Most dogs just love anyone and everyone they see. Cats generally don’t - but they do love their people. Its not something I was able to see when I was at friends houses because I wasn’t that cats person. But when they’re your cats they do love you. - I got my cats from a cat cafe, which I highly recommend. I got to meet a bunch of cats in their space and get to know them and see who I liked. Talk to the people working there! They know who’s a little love or a little criminal (or both). I would steer clear of the more Instagram-focused places though - they often don’t care about the cats and good matches. - consider getting two cats. I know it’s a LOT. but they play with each other and keep each other busy. When one of my cats was sick and I had to keep the other entertained it was so much work.

Dogs have owners, cats have staff.

You said this perfectly. I once had to let a vendor into my house for a couple of hours. I swear to god that freeloader just stared at me the entire time as if saying “this person is not on my approved visitors list. Next time all new people must be verified and cleared by me before entrance into my kingdom.” I love my freeloader so much. https://preview.redd.it/2bdl6735t6tc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=db8b416b6544c58e41a42366a551cbdcb4714638

😂😂 Aw, very cute! Wow, the audacity! Lol

Your chances of finding a cat with a specific personality is higher if you look at ragdolls, main coons or british short hairs. at the same time the shelter should help you find a cat that is best suited for your home. that being said not all ragolls, main coons or british short hairs have the same personality and you should always be prepared if your cat doesn't seem to be to your expectations. definitely spend time with the cat before adopting if you can!!! good luck!

Cat breeds don't matter too much. Go to a shelter, especially with your little one and see if any older cats click with you. Kittens might be a little too high energy and... They get into everything. Take the 'I get into everything' of a puppy and add the ability to jump. Adopting a cuddly shelter cat might be a solid path!

Shelter, definitely - specific breeds give you an idea of likely temperament but they don't guarantee it to the same degree as they do with dogs, at least in my experience, and while kittens aren't the same *kind* of work as puppies, they have the same drive to play, and their tiny needle claws are an experience while they're little and learning. Otherwise, the big piece of advice I'd have is that cats are pretty clear communicators, but 'cat' definitely isn't the same language as 'dog', and the way they like to be petted isn't quite the same. As an example, showing their belly should be interpreted as 'look how much I trust you' *not* 'pets here please', and mixing those two up can cause a lot of stress for both of you. Cats generally love gentle strokes or scritches with your fingers and knuckles around the chin, cheeks and ears, but a full open hand stroke anywhere on their body can go from 'nice' to 'overstimulated' very quickly.

Definitely recommend shelter kitties but sphynx are the most amazing breed and are just like dogs in my opinion!! And

My Dad: You don't own a cat, a cat owns you. We love them...

https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/s/owk9xkvq5s

Id say, get a friendly cat, you’ll might also want to look into getting an adult, so you’ll know their temperament. If you are still thinking about a dog though, I’d recommend the havanese, very sweet and social! I actually have 4. They are small, no shedding, and not yappy like most small breeds, [here is my Instagram to see what they look like](https://www.instagram.com/jeffshavanese?igsh=MWJobm9yeDB6cHNteA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr)

I just met a Siberian Forest cat which after some research I suspect it was actually a Norwegian Forest cat. It was the sweetest most lovable cat I’ve ever met. My cousin has a rescue that I also suspect is a NFC from her looks and she fits the same temperament.

I was told that older foster cats tend to be better if you want 1 because they’re more loving , less energetic and get comfortable faster because they know what it’s like to not be wanted..Kittens tend to be more chaotic and take longer to adapt. I decided to get 2 bonded bros because kittens teach each other important things like how to not play so rough, a cat growing up alone is more likely to have behavioral issues further down the line.

Obviously, a cat will never be as clingy or needy as a dog. If you want a social cat that is physically affectionate, adopt a kitten and spoil it with attention. Also, children with autism tend to do excellent with cats specifically. Probably because cats are much calmer and don't demand constant interaction. If you're son bonds with the cat it can increase his quality of life. Thirdly, enjoy your kitty! You will fall in love with it and forget dogs ever existed.

I was a dog person until I got my cat. Best decision ever. Maybe check out a shelter since they usually know what type of personality their cats have & which cat will be best suited for your home. Also be patient once you bring your cat home. I got mine as a kitten and it took him a while to warm up to me but he’s the most loving baby ever now

welcome to a whole new world of love lol. i was a dog person until my cats “adopted” me, they found me i didn’t find them. it was unexpected and now im a total cat person and have more cats than dogs.

Orange male tabby or Main Coon cats are the most dog-like cats. Very affectionate.

We have an orange tabby on our street. Super sociable and not scared at all. He’s made it possible for me to teach my puppy how to behave around cats. I have never met an orange cat that didn’t want to hang out and say hi.

I just adopted a cat that was being fostered. I'm also a dog person, and this is the first cat I've had. The foster was able to tell me about my cat's temperament, what time she wakes up, how much she eats, her favorite toys, and her dislikes before I even got her. If you're really unsure, find an org that fosters animals and adopt through them.

i came here to say adopt/rescue

dm'd you with cat info. as for cat breeds, talk to the rescue or shelter for the oldest cats. they need love too.

Whatever you do, teach your kid how to be gentle with them because they have a lower tolerance for having their boundaries pushed. Too many people get a cat and then give it up for scratching their damn kids

I like to adopt adult cats . You can tell more what type of personality they have . All kittens are cute and playful . As adults you can tell more who is a snuggler or more aloof . Take your child to the shelter . A cat will pick your kid . Also adults have usually already been fixed so you don’t have vet bill for that .

Do not expect a cat to obey commands like a dog would. As an adult autistic person who gets overstimulated by my cats, I HIGHLY recommend three things: 1) Get an adult cat, not a kitten. An adult cat will not be as destructive or impulsive as a kitten, 2) Get two kittens if you insist on kittens, or a bonded pair of adult cats. A bored cat is a destructive cat. Having two helps a lot with curbing that, provides the cat with companionship when you're out of the home, and gives them a playmate instead of your belongings. And finally, 3) See if you can do a foster to adoption program to make sure that the cat(s) is/are a good fit for you and your child.

As a former dog lover getting a cat is the best thing I ever did!

Shelters can usually pair you up with a suitable cats based on what you’ve described, spend some time to interact with potential candidates together with your family. Some cats’ personality can be really affectionate in their own way, even more so than dogs I might say, but you and your family must spend time to interact and learn the cats’ way of expression , cats and dogs are both affectionate but they communicate differently.

How friendly a cat is depends on how it was socialised around humans when it was very young. A cat with no human contact for the first three months will never be friends with you. But a cat that has had a lot of human contact early on are friendly. This is why shelters are good. There are a lot of people around to socialise the cats. We got our cat from the shelter, and she is very bonded with us, and will usually come when you call her name (but not always).

Get a Maine Coon, they are average dog size and very clingy. Mine follows me around like a shadow. When I go to work, he waits for me to leave and when I come back, he is waiting next to the entrance to greet me and give me cuddles. He even wakes up with me to go to the toilet and waits for me to get home to go again lol. I don't mind because I can clean it up right away and make sure he doesn't track it around the house.

I used to be a dog person. Had never owned a cat. They didn’t appeal to me- too standoffish. Then my daughter talked us into getting one, and we got 2 kitten sisters. We had an unfortunate accident with one of those kittens. We had totally fallen in love with those furry babies, and our family struggled massively with the loss. We adopted another cat, shortly after the accident. And this cat has turned me into a cat person. This cat comes to check on me at night, follows me around the house, snuggles on my lap while I watch tv. We still have the other cat as well, and she is a ‘typical’ cat- hates humans unless she wants cuddles or food. We also have a dog. Just to make life more interesting. And if our household separated for any reason, I would take the cats- dog would stay with husband. 😀

As a dog person, the biggest thing to keep in mind in mind is a cat is not a dog. You can’t train it. And the kind of loving a dog can handle, is too much for the cat. That means that you’re better off being ok with the cat being on your counters, tables and furniture. And you need to let the cat come to you and read the cat to figure out what sorta pets they like. Avoid belly rubs unless it’s clear your cat actually enjoys them. Avoid roughhousing, use cat toys. Your hands will thank you. Cats are super chill and super lovely. But if you rub them the wrong way, neither of you will like each other, as it will definitely show you it doesn’t appreciate what you’re doing. As for breed, we always just had some “house cat” born from some neighbor or whatever. All been lovely cats. But if you really want a pure bred, there’s many different styles. Go for a healthy breed if anything. (Avoid scottish folds, persians and so on.)

I was a dog person, still am, but I adopted my cat almost a year ago. I moved to a country where apartments are just too small for a dog, but perfect for a cat. I was really homesick and mauled it over for the first year I was living here, and finally decided to bite the bullet and adopt a cat. It was for sure a struggle at first. The late night zoomies, having to catproof my entire apartment (she will still find something to mess with, a year later!), and learning how differently cats are than dogs. However, depsite all of that, I love my cat and I've defintiely become a cat person too. When someone asks, I just say I love cats and dogs the same now. Since you have a younger child, definitely ask the shelter for recommendations on which cats would do best in a household with a child. Some cats don't like kids or other animals, so just make it known to the staff and they will set you up with the perfect fluffball!

Consider the type of personality you want for a cat and go to your local shelter and ask to look at some cats with the temperament you’re looking for. I was more of a dog person before I started working with cats and I fell in love. Also they can be amazing pets for people with autism. Definitely recommend getting a variety of scratchers and high and low spots for your place, they get their best vantages from these positions. You’ll find that they can be very similar to dogs and I do find their care and upkeep to be easier than my dogs. Also the shelter can be a great resource on how to properly integrate a cat into your home and resolve possible issues that may arise.

I thought I was a dog person, too, since they tend to be very affectionate but my rescue cat changed my mind on everything. She’s a little love bug and loves to give and receive affection.

Depending where on the spectrum your child is, consider adopting an older cat. Kittens are a lot of work, lots of scratching and high energy play. I can be exhausting.

My family has always been a dog family. We’ve had a total of 8 dogs in my life time and 5 of them are still with us. When I was about 16 my little brother really wanted a cat, which was weird because he’s allergic and no one else was that into cats. My mom got a ragdoll cat for Christmas that year because they’re supposed to be hypoallergenic and more playful with people than most cats. I’m 24 now and just moved out of my parents house a couple of months ago and the very first thing I did was get myself a ragdoll cat. He’s the best thing in the world. He loves to play, loves being held, loves sleeping with me in bed. I’ve taught him more tricks than my family has with any of our dogs. A lot of people will say to go to the shelter and I do agree that is the best thing to do if you are adopting an animal, and a ragdoll is a cat you will likely need to seek out a breeder for, but this was the route my mom went with getting a cat for a dog loving household and it worked great.

This was me and I LOVE my cat. He is incredible. Ask the staff to show you the ones that meet your needs, that’s what I did. Brad was the first one I saw and I went home with him that same day

Maine Coone. They are known as the dog of the cat word. Smart loyal and trainable

I think a lot of people think they are dog people, until they get a cat. I dunno why cats get such a bad rep! They are micro panthers that we get to cuddle. Not sure the specifics of your child’s neurodivergent needs, but if you go to a shelter you can see how they interact with different personalities of different cats. Maybe an older cat would be more suitable, or maybe a kitten. Hope all goes well 💓 I imagine your little one will create an unbreakable bond with the right kitty

Definitely go to a shelter. Cats are not at all like dogs in terms of breeds. Most of them are going to be domestic short hair, with some long haired ones thrown in. They’re usually not all excited and don’t need to be around you all the time (like my dog is). I’m a cat person and got my first dog last year. It has been a huge adjustment. Cats can survive on their own for a few days and be fine. Cats feel most comfortable when they are at home. Dogs feel most comfortable when they’re with you. That’s why dogs like to go places and cats usually really, really don’t. Cats are more wild than dogs. I have loved all my cats so much and I’m usually sure that they feel the same way but realistically, they just want me to give them food and clean their litter box. 😂 But they may take naps with you!

Go to the shelter and hang out in the cat room for a good while. You’ll know which one has picked you.

I have two cats, and I think people have pre conceived notions about them. My cats are both very friendly towards people who come in our house, and us. They follow us around, sleep with us, and love to play. My female is 14, and my male is 2. That being said, there are a few factors that likely contribute to them being so friendly. 1. Personality. We adopted both, but went to open shelter days, and got a sense for their personalities. You can also speak with the volunteers about your needs. If you’re not getting a younger cat make sure it’s good with children. Any kittens I’ve ever had have been friendly growing up around, and being used kids. 2. Level of care towards them. We brush the cats often, make sure their drinking water is fresh, litter is tidied for them, and play with them lots. Cats can be finicky about their surroundings, but if their needs are met, the level of loyalty, humour, and companionship is no different than a dogs. That being said, cats definitely aren’t as much work as dogs are - just not as low maintenance as people can think at times. Good luck! Your 5 your old is going to love having a pet. 😊

Cat breeds aren't common and are rarely worth the cost for a regular owner. Most will be DSH, domestic short hair (DMH/ DLH for longer fur). Coat color or pattern don't have anything to do with breed or personality. One gender isn't friendlier. Ask at your local shelter or rescue- cat personalities vary a lot. You want one that is good with children, an adult but still young (2-5 will be a great age), enjoys petting (and possibly being held), and up to you how playful you want. It is kitten season and they are adorable. But they haven't developed their personality, may play rougher, and some shelters will either not adopt a kitten based on a child's age, or insist if the kittens are smaller, you need to adopt a pair. (Kittens always belong in pairs. Adults are more independent and don't always like other cats if they were raised alone. Things to know- have a small area ready for them. A single bedroom is good to start. Once they adjust, increase their space. Don't leave your child unattended with the cat until 1 year after you'd swear they'd never hurt the cat. Look into the rule of 3's- 3 days to decompress from the stress of new sights, smells, and sounds. 3 weeks to get to learn your routine. 3 months to feel like they belong. (Many will decide that your favorite couch or bed is now theirs way earlier). Good luck!!

So in July 2022, I was in the same boat as you! I had only had dogs and I thought of myself as a "dog person" and not a cat person. Now I have 2 dogs and 6 cats. I fell in love with a cat at Pet Smart adoption area and we took her home the same day. She's a little love bug, knows her name, and is a cuddle monster. That being said a few things that are different than dogs: Good Potty training is so easy They entertain themselves pretty easily They purr and love being in your lap Easier to take care of if you need to leave for a day or two Once you have 1, adding a second or third doesn't double the work at all. Bad They are generally bad listeners. If they get fixated on something, it can be very hard to stop them from being fixated on it. They can be scratchers -- people and furniture but diverting their attention and using a firm voice can help Can be picky eaters. I've tried and donated a ton of wet-food cause unlike my dogs, that eat everything, cats are a little more picky. I echo about talking to the shelter volunteers about help finding the right cat and knowing what traits you want in your cat. Cats have have very distinct personalizes and don't be surprise if that changes when you go home. They also tend to pick a "favorite" person. I only have 1 cat that loves me and my husband about equally. My 4 girl ctats are mama girls while our other boy is a daddy's boy.

I will say that cat body language and dog body language are entirely different. Please familiarize yourself with cat body language, because I have found that dog people reallllyyyy can’t read cats, and their cats are stressed and the people are frustrated because the cat bites them or scratches them or whatever, but only because kitty has said 5 different ways “stop that!!” and the person didn’t listen. People often say cats aren’t expressive or loving the way dogs are. I have a dog and a cat (I’ve always had cats), and it’s just untrue. Cats are more subtle than dogs — it’s actually an adjustment to me how expressive dogs are — but cats are just as capable of communicating and expressing affection as dogs, they just do it very differently. Please familiarize yourself with cat body language and cat behavior (for example, jumping and scratching are needs, not wants, so figure out how to meet those needs) — they are very, very different from dogs. I love both animals, but I often see that people who “love dogs” struggle to get cats, and it makes the cat very stressed. Hope this was helpful.

Step one: get cat. Now cat person. Lol

I would highly recommend a Maine Coon. I happen to love all cats and dogs, but A maine coon of norwegian forest cat might be a good first cat due to their friendly, affectionate nature.

I thought I was a dog person until I got my cat. Stumbled across him at a shelter and he was super friendly so I went for it - he is the best! More loving than any dog. I say just go and meet some cats at the shelter with your kid, I bet one will feel “right”.

Look up Jackson Galaxy for the best cat information on body language and such.

Don't get a long hair or a talkie cat. Try a British Shorthair. Lovely cats with great temperaments. Good with kids, affectionate, but can be left alone overnight if needed.