family pet

[angelofdeath21]

hi all

my dd is turning 2 in the new year and so we feel its a good time to introduce a family pet. love dogs and cats and intend to have both in the future, however I'm interested to know what worked best for others with a boisterous toddler.
also - has anyone got any experience with more exotic breeds?

tia x

did you have pets growing up? X

yes we had bengal cats and loved them but I don't think they do well with dogs so long term not suitable

I do love a Bengal but get your point. Why not pop down to the RSPCA for your typical moggy?

don't want a rescue I want the puppy and kitten vibes x

I wouldn't get a dog with a toddler. Pups are demanding and need lots of training/exercise. Maybe cats are easier?

I like the idea of a larger pet and I'm not sure on any larger breeds of cats

What about a serval? Xx

what's a serval

We got cat1 when DS was 3 and cat2 when he was 5. We have a dog now too, DS was 7 and DD 9months when she joined the family.

Cat1 is glorious with the kids and has very carefully taught them boundries with animals, she far surpases how brilliant i thought shed be. Cat2 is quite aloof and predominantly only interacts with me. Dog is brilliant with both the kids.

Having both (although always had and grown up with dogs), i prefer the cats, especially with a young family, they are much less demanding and restrictive in terms of time and going out for the day/holiday in places that dont allow dogs.

Large cat breeds are Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest.

Kittens are around £1k, check they have genetic clearance.