Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comes with many challenges, including communication issues, engaging in repetitive behaviors, or experiencing sensitivity to outside stimuli. Usually, children with autism need certain toys, such as fidget toys or weighted blankets, to relax and keep calm during stressful situations. However, there are many therapies available that you can try to minimize the symptoms and help your little one live a successful life.
This begs the question, ‘Do pets improve problematic behaviors in children with autism?’
Children who grow up with pets tend to be more caring and empathetic to other people and animals. They also tend to be more outgoing and have enhanced social and communication skills. Cats provide companionship and offer valuable life lessons for children with autism. Furthermore, it helps them learn essential skills such as taking responsibility for others, discipline, and respect.
One thing you should remember when choosing a cat is that having a pet is a big decision, especially when choosing the right breed. It’s essential to consider the breed’s personality—and spend time with the selected cat before making a choice. The wrong match can disrupt your lifestyle and make your child reluctant to get a new pet.
With so many different breeds out there, choosing the right pet might be overwhelming. This article looks at the best emotional support cats perfect for autistic children.
If you are more of a dog person, read this article: 11 Best Dog Breeds for Children with Autism.
Why Cats?
We watch funny cat videos because they are silly and adorable. Watching them jump around can lift your spirits—so imagine what having a real cat can do. Cats are known for being ‘cold-hearted,’ but that is far from the truth. While they are fickle about choosing their humans, you will have a loyal and loving companion once you earn their trust.
Many cat breeds are great with little children—and are the perfect snuggle buddies. They are relatively low maintenance and help us relax by curling in our laps. With that being said, cats are very affectionate with their owners and people they trust; overall, they are good for our emotional well-being.
The human-animal bond is truly special, but a study revealed that cats make great companions for autistic children. Here are the three benefits of cats for children with ASD:
- Improved emotional health: Children with cats as pets experienced various emotional health improvements, such as greater empathy, less hyperactivity, and fewer feelings of separation anxiety.
- Development of a strong human-animal bond: The presence of a cat in many families is considered positive—and the bonds don’t waver over time. Children also immediately develop a bond with the cat.
- Cats are easy to take care of: Bringing a cat into the household does not burden the family. You only need to feed them, change their litter once in a while, and give them love and affection.
Read More: A Guide to Animal-Assisted Therapy for Children with Autism.
Are Cats Good for Children with Autism?
Cats have their individual personalities—this teaches autistic children that we are different from each other. Sometimes, children with autism struggle building friendships, so a cat will bond with the child by showing affection. It’s an important trait for many children with autism.
Research also proved that petting an animal is a stress reliever and helps reduce anxiety. It’s a massive deal for children with ASD to have their stress melt away in seconds.
How to Choose the Best Cats
The ideal cat is friendly, outgoing, and doesn’t easily get scared. It’s also a good idea to start with a young kitten, so they learn the unpredictable behavior of autistic children. You can find cats at the local shelter and meet many kittens until you find the right one.
Here are the five things you should keep in mind when choosing a kitten:
- Schedule: Cats still come with needs. You should consider the amount of attention and time you’re willing to give your cat, especially if you’re not home often.
- Environment: Cats need room to play and run, no matter their size. Make sure to have ample space for playing to accommodate the cat comfortably.
- Size: Think about whether your child can handle a medium-sized or smaller cat.
- Personality: Some cats are better around humans than others, so you might want to think about the energy and affection levels of the cat before bringing it into your home.
- Care: Consider who will take care of the cat: is it you or the child? Cats need to be brushed and groomed or litter trained.
Best Cat Breeds for Autistic Children
There are approximately 70 different breeds of cats around the world, so choosing the right cat is a hard decision to make. To make the selection process easier, here are the best cat breeds for children with ASD.
Birman
Birman is a beautiful breed that loves to give and receive affection. They make great companions since they are easy to handle and train and are playful and gentle. If you start early enough, you can walk the cat on a leash.
Since it’s a friendly cat, Birmans will greet your guests personally. However, this breed is not very active but can adapt to any environment. They aren’t demanding and enjoy being petted.
Ragdoll
Ragdolls are patient, laid-back, and mild-mannered cats ideal for young children. The breed's name comes from when you pick them up: the cat goes limp, like a ragdoll. They enjoy getting picked up and carried around. It’s also soft-voiced and gentle, ideal for sensory-sensitive autistic children. Ragdolls also love attention but won’t demand it.
The cats are also intelligent, not aggressive, playful, and easy to train. They quickly adapt to any environment, able to deal with a human’s routine.
Maine Coon
This is a highly recommended breed for children with ASD. It’s a playful and loving cat that is not aggressive—and loves to be held. Maine Coons love to spend time with their humans. Maine Coons have a calm nature, yet they are outgoing, intelligent, and affectionate.
However, they might be high maintenance due to the tendency to shed, but they are warm enough to melt your heart.
Siamese
Siamese cats have high levels of intelligence—and are popular among families. They might be slightly demanding of their owners, but they have an affectionate and friendly nature that makes them great companions for autistic children.
Siamese are great emotional support cats that challenge the child to move more and increase their physical activity. They like to play with the owner, so they won’t really appreciate being alone at home.
Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair has the laid-back personality of a Persian but without the aloofness and grooming demands. They have flat faces and beautiful big eyes—and crave human attention. Their presence is soothing and helps the child wind down after a stressful encounter. All they require is a bit of playtime each evening.
Manx
Manx loves to play fetch. It’s a gentle and playful breed with no tail. Instead of wiggling their tails, they are quite vocal cats. Manx are loyal and crave companionship with either one member of the family or a range of people. They might require daily grooming to keep their coat in good condition.
Abyssinian
The name comes from the Ethiopian Empire called Abyssinia. The Abyssinian is a cat with high energy levels, meaning it will not get tired from play. They love the company of others but won’t like to cuddle. They are great at sensing emotions, though, even if they are a relatively self-sufficient breed.
Himalayan
The Himalayan is a fine cat breed more active than a Persian and quieter than a Siamese. They have captivating blue eyes but the stunning hair of Persian cats. They seem lazy and frigid, and it might take them a while to open up, but their love is worth the wait. Himalayas are quiet and an indoor breed.
Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin cats are clingy and affectionate—and enormous! This breed loves people and is docile, friendly, and overall sweet. They do enjoy playtime. You will often find your Raggamuffin waiting for you at the door and then curl up in your lap for hours.
Burmese
Burmese love to be around their humans—and will always remain playful and friendly over the years. They love to play fetch and be social, so it’s important not to leave them home alone for too long. Burmese cats might be slightly mischievous, but they will follow you around the house all day long.
Discover More: Cats—And Their Role in Improving Social Skills.