Cats and kids are an awesome combination at home. Here are some ways to ensure the relationship between your children and cats is as great as possible.

Teach your kids how to properly hold a cat. Cats should not be grabbed by the scruff of their neck and their tails should not be yanked. Instead, children should support the cat’s hindquarters in one hand and the chest in the other. Children should hold the cat gently yet securely to their body. They should be careful of sensitive areas like the tail, ears, and paws.

Teach kids to give cats their space. Do not allow children to disturb sleeping cats, cats that are eating, or when using the litter box.

Supervise children and cats. This is especially important for new cats that might be nervous. Encourage calm, non-threatening interactions between kids and kitties. Don’t allow kids to corner or chase cats as they might feel threatened. Teach kids to respect cats. You should supervise these interactions until the cats and your child have developed a sense of respect for each other.

Do not let children tease cats. Teach children the difference between playing and teasing.

Show children the importance of keeping your cat indoors. With so many dangers such as cars and wildlife outside, make sure children understand that cats that live indoors have much safer, longer lives. Children should alert you if the cats accidentally run out the door.