Best Cats for Apartments: Top Breeds for Small Spaces!
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a furry companion. In fact, cats make excellent pets for apartment dwellers due to their independent nature and adaptability. Over 70% of urban pet owners prefer cats over dogs due to their low space requirements and quiet demeanor (Source: ASPCA). However, not all cat breeds thrive in smaller spaces. Choosing the right cat breed is crucial for a happy and stress-free coexistence in an apartment.
What Makes a Cat Suitable for Apartments?
Not all cats can comfortably live in an apartment. Here are a few key factors that determine if a cat is suitable for small-space living:
- Size & Adaptability – Smaller cats or those with a relaxed demeanor fit well in apartments.
- Low Activity Levels – Less active breeds adjust better to confined spaces.
- Independent Nature – Some cats are content spending time alone while their owners are at work.
- Quiet Personality – Loud and overly vocal cats may not be ideal for apartments with noise restrictions.
Top 10 Best Apartment Cat Breeds
Here are the top cat breeds that thrive in apartments:
1. British Shorthair
- Calm, independent, and affectionate
- Requires minimal grooming
- Enjoys lounging rather than high activity
2. Scottish Fold
- Quiet and gentle
- Enjoys human interaction but isn’t overly demanding
- Adaptable to small spaces
3. Ragdoll
- Known for their affectionate and docile nature
- Great for companionship
- Requires moderate grooming
4. Persian
- Low-energy breed perfect for indoor life
- Requires regular grooming due to long fur
- Affectionate and calm
5. Russian Blue
- Intelligent and independent
- Minimal shedding and hypoallergenic
- Adapts well to apartment living
6. Burmese
- Playful but not overly energetic
- Forms strong bonds with owners
- Minimal grooming required
7. Devon Rex
- Playful and affectionate
- Requires occasional grooming
- Thrives in apartment environments
8. American Shorthair
- Low-maintenance and independent
- Tolerant of alone time
- Ideal for working pet owners
9. Siamese
- Social and interactive
- Requires attention but is very affectionate
- Moderate energy level
10. Sphynx
- No shedding, making them perfect for apartments
- Loves warmth and human companionship
- Requires regular skin care

Breed Comparison Table
Cat Breed | Energy Level | Grooming Needs | Affection Level | Noise Level |
British Shorthair | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Scottish Fold | Low | Low | High | Low |
Ragdoll | Medium | Moderate | High | Low |
Persian | Low | High | High | Low |
Russian Blue | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Burmese | Medium | Low | High | Medium |
Devon Rex | High | Moderate | High | Medium |
American Shorthair | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Siamese | High | Low | High | High |
Sphynx | High | High (Skin) | High | Medium |
Best Litter Box Solutions for Apartments
Living in a small space means choosing the right litter box is essential. Here are some great options:
Litter Box Type | Pros | Cons |
Covered Litter Box | Controls odor, keeps litter inside | Can trap odors if not cleaned frequently |
Self-Cleaning Litter Box | Less maintenance, reduces odor | Expensive upfront cost |
Corner Litter Box | Space-saving design | Limited size options |
Conclusion
Choosing the best apartment cat breed depends on your lifestyle and living space. Calm, low-maintenance, and independent cats are the best fit for small apartments. With proper care, enrichment, and love, any of these breeds can thrive in a compact living environment.
You May Also Like : Different Types of Cat Breeds
Pro Tip
Provide vertical spaces like cat trees and shelves to maximize your cat’s living area and keep them entertained without taking up floor space.
FAQs
1. What is the best cat breed for a small apartment?
British Shorthairs and Russian Blues are excellent choices due to their calm nature and low activity levels.
2. Do cats get bored in apartments?
Yes, but providing toys, climbing structures, and interactive play can keep them engaged.
3. Are hypoallergenic cats better for apartments?
Yes, hypoallergenic breeds like the Russian Blue or Sphynx are great for people with allergies.
4. What is the easiest cat to take care of in an apartment?
American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs require minimal grooming and adapt well to small spaces.
5. Do apartment cats need more attention?
Some breeds, like Siamese, are social and require more attention, while others, like the Persian, are more independent.