Toggle Side Panel
Close search

Multi-cat families

How can children interact safely with a cat?

Teach children to let the cat approach, stroke gently, avoid lifting or chasing, and leave the cat alone while eating, sleeping or using the litter tray. Every cat needs child-free hiding and resting places.

A good next step

  • Supervise young children and cats together.
  • Show children early “stop” signals such as tail swishing and ears back.
  • Never punish a cat for moving away or warning.

Source checked: RSPCA Australia

Last reviewed 26 July 2026. General information only; not a substitute for veterinary or legal advice.

Keep exploring

Multi-cat families How should I introduce two cats? Multi-cat families What resources do two cats need? Multi-cat families Why have my cats suddenly stopped getting along?
Browse all cat questions

Know when to stop searching

Some questions need a vet, not a webpage.

Seek urgent veterinary help for breathing difficulty, collapse, seizures, severe pain, major trauma, suspected poisoning, heatstroke, or repeated straining without passing urine.

If you are unsure, call your regular vet or nearest emergency veterinary clinic for triage.