Kid-Friendly Cats for Adoption in Portland, ME: 10 Cats Good with Children
Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Portland have 10 kid-friendly cats up for adoption. Here are all 10, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Every cat on this page has been marked by their rescue as good with children, usually because they've lived with kids in a foster home.
Not in Portland? Find cats near your zip code.
1. Tilly
Meet Tilly, a sweetheart who is ready to find a lap—and a family—to call her own! This affectionate girl loves being petted, climbs into laps, and makes it clear that snuggle time is high on her wish list. She’s also discovering the fun of toys, showing off her playful side between cuddle sessions.
Tilly would be happiest as your one and only pet, with all that love to herself. She can coexist with other cats, though she prefers her own space. When she met a dog, she chose to keep her distance. A home with another respectful pet could be a possibility with thoughtful introductions. She has been fine with the children in her foster home.
Read more about Tilly
If you’re looking for a loving companion who wants to settle close and soak up your affection, Tilly may be your perfect match.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Harold AND Calculator
Harold - Male DOB 4/29/2026 Domestic Medium Hair - Brown and White Tabby- Meet Harold — 6 Months of Fluff, Fun, and Full Send Harold is not a cat. Harold is an adventure in a medium-hair tabby-and-white coat. At 6 months old, Harold is 90% explorer, 10% cuddlebug, and 100% convinced your house is a jungle gym built specifically for him. Closets to investigate? He's in. High shelves to conquer? Already there. That mysterious crinkle behind the couch? He will solve the case. This boy loves to play. Wand toys, crinkle balls, mice — all great. But springs? SPRINGS are his soulmate. He will boing-boing-boing a little spring toy all over the house for hours, chirping, pouncing, doing those sideways kitten hops that make you laugh out loud. You will find springs in places you didn't know existed. Harold is friendly, people-loving, and sweet — he does like to check in for pets and short snuggle breaks between expeditions. Because he's a young, active, playful guy, Harold is looking for an active home with another playful cat to wrestle and zoom with. He has way too much kitten energy to be an only cat — he needs a buddy to burn it off with, and to cuddle up with when it's finally nap time. If you want a fun, funny, curious, toy-obsessed sidekick who will make every day more entertaining, Harold is your guy. Harold is fine with respectful children. To our knowledge he has not had experience with dogs. Looking for a pair? Ask about Calculator, Harold's current playmate! Apply for Harold today; he won't be around for long!
Read more about Harold AND Calculator
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
3. Calculator AND Harold
Calculator - Male DOB 6/17/2025 Domestic Short Hair - Orange Tabby- Despite his name, Calculator is not good at math. He tried addition once and got 2+2= ham. He is, however absolutely adorable. He is a very curious and playful cat who has done well with other cats at FuRRR. This lovable orange guy would do well in the average household. Because of his playful nature, he should go home with or to another playful cat. To our knowledge, he has no experience with dogs but may do well with a proper introduction. He would be fine with kids. Calculator won't last long so apply for him today! Looking for a pair? Ask about Harold, Cal's current playmate!
Read more about Calculator AND Harold
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
4. John Brown AND Patrick Henry
John Brown - Male DOB 4/15/2026 Domestic Short Hair - Brown Tabby- Meet John Brown & Patrick Henry — The Founding Friends!
Two kittens. One unbreakable bond. Double the trouble, double the snuggles.
John Brown is our handsome brown tabby explorer. If there's a toy to chase, a box to investigate, or a corner that might hide adventure, John is already there, tail up, on a mission. He's endlessly curious, wildly playful, and has the cutest little chirp when he finds something exciting.
Read more about John Brown AND Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry is sleek, shiny, and 100% black velvet with a motor that never quits. Don't let his cool, mini-panther look fool you, he is just as playful and curious as John. He loves to pounce, wrestle, and then flop over for cuddles like he didn't just do 20 zoomies around the room.
They are not brothers, but you would never know it. These two are best friends and do everything together: Wrestling matches that end in a tangled nap pile? Daily. Chasing the same spring toy until they both slide into the wall? Absolutely. Curling up cheek-to-cheek to recharge for the next round of chaos? Their favorite. John Brown and Patrick Henry are bonded, not just roommates, but true partners in crime who need to stay together. They give each other confidence, comfort, and a built-in play buddy to burn off all that perfect kitten energy. They're looking for a home together where they can play, explore, wrestle, and then be your little Liberty Bell purr duo at the end of the day.
The pair would fit into any household. Other cats and kids are fine. To our knowledge, they don't have experience with dogs
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
5. Patrick Henry AND John Brown
Patrick Henry - Male DOB 5/4/2026 Domestic Short Hair - Black- Meet John Brown & Patrick Henry — The Founding Friends!
Two kittens. One unbreakable bond. Double the trouble, double the snuggles.
John Brown is our handsome brown tabby explorer. If there's a toy to chase, a box to investigate, or a corner that might hide adventure, John is already there, tail up, on a mission. He's endlessly curious, wildly playful, and has the cutest little chirp when he finds something exciting.
Read more about Patrick Henry AND John Brown
Patrick Henry is sleek, shiny, and 100% black velvet with a motor that never quits. Don't let his cool, mini-panther look fool you, he is just as playful and curious as John. He loves to pounce, wrestle, and then flop over for cuddles like he didn't just do 20 zoomies around the room.
They are not brothers, but you would never know it. These two are best friends and do everything together: Wrestling matches that end in a tangled nap pile? Daily. Chasing the same spring toy until they both slide into the wall? Absolutely. Curling up cheek-to-cheek to recharge for the next round of chaos? Their favorite. John Brown and Patrick Henry are bonded, not just roommates, but true partners in crime who need to stay together. They give each other confidence, comfort, and a built-in play buddy to burn off all that perfect kitten energy. They're looking for a home together where they can play, explore, wrestle, and then be your little Liberty Bell purr duo at the end of the day.
The pair would fit into any household. Other cats and kids are fine. To our knowledge, they don't have experience with dogs
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
6. Jonesy
Hi, I’m Jonesy. ❤️
I may be a little shy when we first meet, but underneath that cautious exterior is a very sweet girl who truly loves people. Once I feel comfortable, I’m happiest when my humans are nearby. I’ll look for you, enjoy your attention, and simply be happy knowing I have someone to call my own.
I’m a senior lady, and at this stage of my life, I’m not looking for anything complicated. I’m looking for a quiet, peaceful home where I can settle in, feel safe, and be loved. A soft place to nap, a kind person to keep me company, and a little patience while I find my confidence would mean the world to me.
Read more about Jonesy
I think I could do well with respectful children who understand that an older girl like me may need a little time to warm up. I would prefer to be the only pet in the home, without dogs or cats, so I can enjoy all the attention myself.
I’ve got so much love left to give. I just need someone willing to see past my initial shyness and give a sweet senior girl the chance to spend her golden years knowing what it feels like to truly belong. Maybe that someone is you.
- Good with kids
- Only cat
- No dogs
- House-trained
7. Fiji
Fiji - Female DOB 5/21/2024 Domestic Short Hair - Black
Fiji is a gorgeous black panther with a big personality to match! This fun-loving, chatty girl is always ready to tell you about her day and will happily carry on conversations with her favorite people. If you're looking for a cat with lots of personality, Fiji is your girl.
Read more about Fiji
She has plenty of energy and loves having room to run, explore, and play. Whether she's chasing toys, investigating every corner of the house, or entertaining herself with kitten-like antics, Fiji can keep herself busy for hours. After she's burned off some energy, she's more than happy to settle in for pets, cuddles, and quality time with her family. And if treats or mealtime are involved, she'll be first in line—Fiji definitely loves her food!
Fiji would probably be happiest being your one and only feline getting all of your attention. She does get along with come other cats, but being around all the cats at the rescue does tend to stress her and could cause her to pick on quieter kitties. Dogs are a definite no for her - she would be happiest in a dog-free home where she can feel safe and confident. Respectful older children who understand cat boundaries would make wonderful companions for her.
If you're looking for an affectionate, playful, talkative companion who will keep you smiling and make your house feel like home, Fiji is ready to fill your life with love, fun, and plenty of conversation.
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- No dogs
- House-trained
8. Hex and Tato
Hex - Male DOB 6/7/2020 Domestic Short Hair - Black
Are you looking for a couple of adorable lap cats? Well, look no further! Hex and Tato are a pair of bonded 6 year old brothers. They came to us as local surrenders, whose family had unexpected life changes. They are now looking for their next adventure together.
Hex is a big teddy bear who just wants to be petted, snuggled, and hangs around your feet for constant attention. He loves to be picked up and held and also likes to lay on your shoulders and ride around with you.
Read more about Hex and Tato
Tato has a charming smile with just one bottom fang that will surely melt your heart. Tato is very chill and happy just hanging out in a cool place while waiting patiently to get his share of your attention. They both will take turns hanging out on your lap, or better yet, having a lap for both of them would be ideal. They are absolute love bugs who would fit into any family.
They would like their new home where they are the only kitties, with no other cats. They have lived comfortably with dogs in their previous home, so they would still be good with a cat-friendly dog, and older respectful children . Get your application in now to adopt Hex and Tato!
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Only cat
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Adopt together
9. Tato and Hex
Tato - Male DOB 6/7/2020 Domestic Short Hair - Black & White
Are you looking for a couple of adorable lap cats? Well, look no further! Hex and Tato are a pair of bonded 6 year old brothers. They came to us as local surrenders, whose family had unexpected life changes. They are now looking for their next adventure together.
Hex is a big teddy bear who just wants to be petted, snuggled, and hangs around your feet for constant attention. He loves to be picked up and held and also likes to lay on your shoulders and ride around with you.
Read more about Tato and Hex
Tato has a charming smile with just one bottom fang that will surely melt your heart. Tato is very chill and happy just hanging out in a cool place while waiting patiently to get his share of your attention. They both will take turns hanging out on your lap, or better yet, having a lap for both of them would be ideal. They are absolute love bugs who would fit into any family.
They would like their new home where they are the only kitties, with no other cats. They have lived comfortably with dogs in their previous home, so they would still be good with a cat-friendly dog, and older respectful children . Get your application in now to adopt Hex and Tato!
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Only cat
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Adopt together
10. Puddle AND Puff
Puddle - Female DOB 12/3/2024 Domestic Short Hair - Black and White
Read more about Puddle AND Puff
Meet Puff & Puddle: Looking for double the love with double the personality? Puff & Puddle are a bonded sister duo who answer to their names and are ready to fill your home with play, purrs, and perch parties. Puddle is a lap cat that will run over to sit on your lap as soon as you sit down as long as no one gets to it first. They both love to lay together in a bright sunny window soaking up all the rays. They both also like to chase springs, mice and furry balls. Puddle even stole a bolt from the toolbox because she loved the sound. Furniture: Cat trees + scratcher posts required. Both girls are climbers who believe the highest perch wins.
*Puff is the CEO of Curiosity. She doesn’t sit still long and must be in the middle of everything. She swats for attention when she wants love, acts like she runs the house even though other cats disagree, and prefers firm pets to gentle scritches. Don’t let the sass fool you — once Puff trusts you, she’s a total lovebug. She loves being picked up, cuddles on your lap or in bed, and turns into a purr machine with head + back rubs. Where Puff was attacked by a coyote down south, which is how she lost her eye, she and her sister would need to be in a home with no dogs.
*Puddle is your happy, go-with-the-flow girl. She gets along with everyone and likes to wrestle with Puff. She’s active and playful but way less dramatic than her sister. Give her a toy and she’s thrilled. Give her a lap and she’ll curl up and stay.
Together: They’re the perfect balance. Puff brings the comedy and chaos, Puddle brings the chill. They play, wrestle, and nap together. Because they’re bonded, they must be adopted as a pair. They do tend to think they are the queen and princess of their environment, and may be a little sassy when other cats come around them. They would do better as the only kitties in your home, but with a slow introduction would also be ok with another kitty in the home, just don’t expect them to be buddies other than with each other. Only older children would be best with them.
Please apply via our easy online application at https://furrr.org/cat-adoption-process/
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- No dogs
- House-trained
- Adopt together
Adopting a cat with children in Portland
Bring the whole family to meet the cat before you adopt, and ask the rescue how the cat behaves around children your kids' ages.
Teach children to let the cat come to them, to stroke gently, and to leave the cat alone while it's eating, sleeping or using the litter box. Give the cat a high or quiet spot to retreat to.
Relaxed adult cats are often a better match for young children than kittens, which scratch and nip while they play.
Rescues with kid-friendly cats near Portland
- FuRRR Feline RescueGonic, NH · 8 kid-friendly cats above
- Greater Derry Humane Society, Inc.East Derry, NH · 2 kid-friendly cats above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly cats in Portland
How many kid-friendly cats are up for adoption in Portland?
As of October 29, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Portland, Maine, have 10 kid-friendly cats up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly cat in Portland?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly cats near Portland right now are FuRRR Feline Rescue (Gonic, NH) and Greater Derry Humane Society, Inc. (East Derry, NH). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.
What kind of cat is best with kids?
A calm, confident cat that the rescue has seen around children. Adult cats are often easier than kittens with young kids, since their personalities are known and they play less roughly.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a cat may have been adopted since this page was updated.