Has your little one been begging for a cat lately? These can be tricky waters to navigate! Our feline pals can be great friends and companions for kids, but they need lots of care. Here, a Plano, TX vet weighs some pros and cons of getting your child a kitty.

Pro: Comfort

Kitties can be a wonderful source of comfort. Fluffy’s soothing cuddles, silly antics, and loving headbutts can put a smile on people’s faces even on the worst times. If your youngster has had a difficult year—as many of us have—a pet may be very helpful. Purring cats make any day better!

Cons: Care

Cats are fairly independent: they don’t need to be walked, spend the vast majority of their time sleeping, and even groom themselves. As for training, well, Fluffy usually trains her humans. However, kitties aren’t entirely self-sufficient. They need fresh food and water every day. Someone will also need to clean the litterbox. This is exactly the type of chore that kids may promise to do and then overlook. Be prepared to supervise Fluffy’s care. Also, make sure you’re ready to take over these duties if need be.

Pro: Health Benefits

Studies have shown that children with pets tend to have stronger immune systems and fewer allergies than those who don’t have pets. Those are definitely big pluses!

Con: Kitties Are Delicate

Kitties are quite fragile, and can easily be hurt. They also get very scared and/or defensive if they feel cornered, and may lash out. This can be an issue, particularly with young children, who can be a bit clumsy. Make sure your child understands that Fluffy isn’t a toy, but a living being with thoughts and emotions.

Con: Fluffy Picks Her People

Sometimes cats pick their people, rather than it being the other way around. Fluffy may ignore your child and bond to you. This may just be purr for the course with kitties. This isn’t really a bad thing, though. After all, pets are part of the family!

Pro: Love

Pets can teach children about friendship, love, and loyalty, and keep them smiling and entertained. They also make great cuddle buddies! Our verdict? If your budget and household allow, go for it! Please contact us, your Plano, TX vet clinic, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!