The Best Cat Breeds for Apartment Living

Dogs may be called man’s best friend, but cats are ideal for people who want a more relaxed lifestyle, whether limited by time or space. The best cat breeds for apartment life often show a temperament with a mix of independence and socialization. Look no further than these incredible, adaptable breeds if you’re looking for a furry friend to brighten up your smaller space.

1. American Shorthair

When you picture a house cat, you’re likely thinking of an American Shorthair. The American Shorthair is a healthy breed with relatively few issues. It comes in several colors and patterns, meaning that you can find your perfect cat in this breed. These cats are great for apartment life, as they can entertain themselves but like to be social with their owners. At the same time, the breed can have an independent streak, so it may not be the best option if you want to be able to snuggle with your cat.

2. Sphynx

Adopting a Sphynx cat will ensure that your apartment doesn’t have cat hair all over it. This hairless breed is perfect for people who may want a cat but has debilitating allergies. Up to 30% of people with allergies are allergic to cats, and a cat allergy is far more common than a dog allergy. 

Because the Sphynx has no hair, any hair-related allergies shouldn’t act up. While this breed can have time on its own, it much prefers to be wherever you are. If you want your cat to be your best friend, the Sphynx is a great pet and is even cute once you look past its hairlessness.

3. Persian

Persian cats are very low energy, meaning they’re the perfect type of cat to cuddle up with after a long day. If you live a more relaxed lifestyle, your Persian will feel right at home in your apartment, no matter how small it might be. They’re relatively independent cats, so you may not see much interaction from them — but every cat is different, and your Persian might surprise you. The Persian has a luxurious coat that must be taken care of well. Consider brushing your cat often to avoid getting any mats you may have to cut out.

4. Russian Blue

If you have a space with tall ceilings, the Russian Blue will be one of the best cat breeds for your apartment. They’re very quiet cats who like to sit someplace high, so you’ll have to make sure to get your Russian Blue a few cat trees and obstacles they can climb.

Since they may be adventuring all over the apartment, you need to ensure that any houseplants you have are cat-friendly and won’t harm your furry friend if accidentally ingested. Make sure to keep your eye out when walking around the apartment. You never know if your Russian Blue will be watching you from somewhere close to the ceiling!

5. Maine Coon

These luxurious cats are one of the best cat breeds for apartment life because they are gentle. This cat breed is exceptionally large, but they typically aren’t hyperactive. They won’t demand your attention, meaning they work well for someone who works from home or needs to focus on demanding tasks often. 

They are the third most popular cat breed and can weigh over 20 pounds healthily. It is an ancient breed, native to North America, and it’s the official state cat of Maine — meaning that if you live in a northern state, you should adopt a Maine Coon because you know they will thrive.

6. Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is an adaptable cat that you can keep busy by offering puzzles and plenty of toys. The most notable thing about this breed is its flopped-over ears, which is unusual for most cat breeds. They’re one of the more social cat breeds, so they’re perfect for a person who plans to spend more time at home than out and about. 

Not all Scottish Folds have flopped ears, and kittens’ ears don’t start to droop until they’re around three weeks old. Make sure to adopt your Scottish Fold from a reputable source so you can be sure they don’t have the bone or joint issues that are common in the breed.

7. Birman

The Birman breed is highly adaptable, meaning that this cat will do well throughout their years with you as you move from apartment to apartment or even house. They are prone to becoming overweight, so try to keep your cat active and moving throughout the day. 

The breed doesn’t require much room and is an excellent socialite. Birmans are great with other animals and with all people, so make sure to introduce your cat to as many of your loved ones as you want! Still, at the end of the day, your Birman will enjoy your company most of all.

Choose the Best Cat Breeds for Apartment Life Wisely

Cats are fantastic animals. They can cuddle up to you and stay relatively calm in a small apartment, but they’re independent enough not to miss you when you’re away for a few hours. The best cat breeds for apartment living are the ones that are social enough to keep you company when you live alone, yet independent enough to let you work on any pressing tasks. Cats can be just as friendly and outgoing as dogs — you just need to adopt one to see how much fun they can be.