Methods for preparing phosphorus containing catalysts comprising a large-pore zeolite, e.g., zeolite Beta, zeolite ZSM-12, or zeolite ZSM-20, and a matrix which have improved attrition resistance. The present invention includes the catalyst compositions produced by the above methods. Also included in the present invention are methods for the use of catalysts prepared by the present method in hydrocarbon cracking processes. It is desired to develop cracking catalysts for organic compound conversion that have improved cracking yields and have good attrition resistance. This invention involves the use of large pore siliceous zeolites and a highly siliceous matrix to produce a cracking catalyst with improved cracking yields and good attrition resistance. The invention further involves the use of phosphorus and the use of selected sequences for combining the compounds in the manufacture of the catalyst to enhance the attrition resistance of the catalyst.