How to Choose the Right Kitten for Your Family - from Maine Coon to loveable Moggy

Bringing a kitten into your home is an exciting experience—but it’s also a big decision that will shape your family’s life for years to come. Kittens grow into adult cats with unique personalities, energy levels, and care needs, so it’s important to choose the right kitten for your lifestyle.

If you’re wondering how to pick the best kitten for your family, this guide covers everything you need to know—from personality traits to health checks—so you can make the best choice.

1. Match a Kitten to Your Lifestyle

Not all kittens are the same. Some are bundles of endless energy, while others prefer cozy naps. Consider your household’s activity level and what you can offer your cat, not just what your cat can offer you:

• Active Lifestyles - Breeds like Abyssinians and Bengals are playful, curious, and thrive in busy homes with children or lots of stimulation.

  Also think of how vocal they are likely to be ( I had a very vocal cat and on occasion it could be annoying).

•  Cats Known for Being Very Vocal (Loud Meows & Frequent Talking)

  • Siamese - One of the loudest and most talkative breeds. Their meows are deep, drawn-out, and demanding (often described as “baby cries”).

  • Oriental Shorthair / Oriental Longhair → Close relatives of the Siamese; also very chatty with a wide range of vocal tones.

  • Burmese - Vocal, though their meows are softer than Siamese—still insistent and expressive.

  • Tonkinese - Outgoing and social, often meowing to get attention.

  • Bengal - Known for chirps, yowls, and loud calls—especially when they want to play or hunt.

  • Maine Coon - Surprisingly vocal, but instead of strong meows, they use trills, chirps, and chatty sounds frequently.

  • Sphynx - Very people-oriented and talkative, often meowing to get attention.

• Calmer Lifestyles - Cats like Ragdolls and Persians tend to be more laid-back, making them perfect for quieter households.

• Cats That Tend to Be Quieter

  • Persian - Usually calm, gentle, and soft-voiced.

  • Ragdoll - Affectionate but typically quiet, with a soft, sweet meow. (That said, this was our noisy cat, he had a very deep loud voice)

  • British Shorthair - Reserved and quiet, meowing only occasionally.

  • Scottish Fold - Generally mellow and not very vocal.

  • Russian Blue - Soft-spoken with a gentle voice. * Tip: Think long-term. A kitten’s personality will influence your daily life for the next 15–20 years.

*There are always going to be exceptions to the rule, the above is just a guide.

2. Consider Kitten Age and Background

While many people want an 8-week-old kitten, slightly older kittens (around 4–6 months) offer unique benefits:

• Already litter-trained.

• More predictable personality.

• Easier to adjust into your household routine.

If you adopt from a shelter or rescue centre, ask about the kitten’s background. Some may already be well-socialised, while others might need extra patience and time to adjust.

3. Kitten Personality: The Most Important Factor

Every kitten has a distinct personality. Spend time observing and interacting with them:

• Confident & Curious - Great for families with children or multiple pets.

• Shy but Affectionate - A better match for a calm, quiet home.

• Playful & Social - Thrives in active households that offer plenty of interaction.

Remember: There’s no “right” or “wrong” type of kitten, just the one that best matches your family dynamic.

4. Health Considerations When Choosing a Kitten

A healthy kitten should show signs of vitality and good care. Look for:

• Bright, clear eyes.

• A shiny, smooth coat.

• Clean nose and ears.

• Playful, alert behavior.

Avoid kittens that appear lethargic, sneeze frequently, or have eye/nose discharge. Always ask for:

• Vaccination records.

• Deworming history.

• Vet checkups.

Adopting from a reputable breeder, rescue centre, or shelter ensures you get a healthy kitten with documented care.

5. Breed vs. Rescue Kitten: Which is Best?

Choosing between a specific breed and a rescue kitten depends on your family’s priorities:

• Purebred Kittens - Families may choose breeds like the affectionate Ragdoll, the athletic Siamese, or the hypoallergenic Siberian for their predictable traits.

• Rescue Kittens - Adopting from a shelter not only saves a life but also offers loving, unique companions.

* Pro Tip: Focus on personality and compatibility over appearance alone.

6. Family Involvement in Choosing a Kitten

Since this new pet will become a family member, involve everyone in the decision-making process:

• Bring children to meet the kitten.

• Observe how the kitten reacts to each family member.

• Ensure everyone feels connected before committing.

This makes the transition smoother and helps the kitten feel welcome in its new home.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Kitten

Choosing the right kitten is about more than falling for the cutest face—it’s about finding a companion whose temperament, energy level, and care needs align with your family’s lifestyle.

By considering personality, health, age, and household dynamics, you’ll bring home a kitten who will grow into a happy, well-adjusted cat and a cherished family member for years to come.

Cute Maine Coon Kittens