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Best Cats for Apartments

Best Cats for Apartments

90.5 million families in the US have a pet. 45.3 million have a cat, making them the second most popular behind dogs. Housing becomes difficult when you rent your home. 3.9 million Americans, or 38% of renters, live in apartments. The average size is a mere 526 square feet and continues to shrink. How can you choose a breed that's content with that amount of room? Read on to learn the best cats for apartments.

a cat with blue eyes sitting on a bench

Ragdoll


Ragdolls have bright blue eyes and large, fluffy bodies. They're known as the ultimate lap cats who flop out or "ragdoll" when picked up. 
These cats love to relax but also have a moderate activity level and need enough time to play. Don't leave them alone for long periods. Daily grooming helps prevent mats and hair on your furniture.

Birman


The Sacred Cat of Burma has a distinctive body that resembles the Ragdoll. Its long, silky coat is easy to care for. 
The Burmese breed gets attached to its owner. They're calm most of the time but do have a playful side. Invest in cat toys to help them burn off their energy. They'll also keep them from becoming overweight from lounging around.

a cat sitting on a couch looking at its reflection in a mirror

Persian


This is another long-haired lap cat that comes in a variety of colors. They have pushed-in faces and a regal air. 
These cats expect attention when you're around but can also handle being alone for a bit. They're one of the laziest breeds around and only need a comfortable spot to sit in. You won't have to come up with many catification ideas. They're also not prone to scratching or destruction. Expect plenty of grooming to keep that beautiful coat looking its best. The Persian's pushed-in face can also cause the same health problems that it does for dogs, such as pugs.

Burmese


The Burmese is an entirely different breed than the Birman. They're deep brown with a soft, easy-to-maintain coat. 
They're also more playful. Catification with trees and window seats is important because they love to climb. Schedule playtime and physical and mental stimulation. Burmese cats belong in multi-cat homes with owners who stay home. They tend to only play well with their owner, other members of their breed, or friendly humans.

a cat laying on the ground in front of some logs

American Shorthair


Purebred cats are easier to look at when comparing characteristics. This is the pedigree version of the domestic shorthair. Their short, thick coat only needs weekly brushing. 
The American Shorthair is a friend to other cats, dogs, and humans. They love attention but can entertain themselves. The instinct to hunt is bread into them. Give them a job to do to avoid destruction. They'll also chase any small animals you've also kept as pets.

British Shorthair


This breed has a plush coat and a round body. Their coat is typically blue-gray, and their eyes are blue, green, or brown. 
They're similar to their American cousins, with a mellow attitude and moderate activity level. Give them enough attention and toys to challenge their minds.

a cat laying on top of a wooden shelf

Russian Blue


This breed is named after its shiny silvery coat. It needs minimal grooming and is hypoallergenic. They also have slender bodies and green eyes. 
The Russian Blue enjoys being near its owner but needs the space to explore, climb, and hunt cat toys. They also find visitors interesting and love to greet them. They're curious but prefer routine and one-on-one time with their owners. Their energy level may be manageable in an apartment, but their noise may not be. It's not as much as, say, a Siamese, but they do tend to talk to their owners.

Exotic Shorthair


This breed is meant to look like a shorter-haired Persian. They have the same wide eyes and flat faces and need daily grooming. 
The main difference is their energy level. They'll sit on your lap, but only after a bit of playtime. Exotic Shorthairs are friendly but may be shy with strangers. They dedicate themselves to their owners, so they use positive reinforcement when training them. This is also one of the clingier breeds. They're not the best option for owners who have to be away from the apartment for hours at a time.

a cat sitting on a rug in a living room

Maine Coon


This breed may not seem like one of the best cats for apartments because it's the largest at up to 25 pounds and 40 inches long. It's their easygoing nature that makes them the right fit. 
They love to spread out next to their owners but can also entertain themselves. Leave enough toys and cat trees around so that they don't become destructive. Their thick fur requires daily grooming. It repels water, making them one of the few breeds that enjoy getting wet. Maine Coons don't have to be indoor cats. Keep them on a leash and go explore the area around the apartment.

a small grey kitten standing in a cardboard box

Scottish Fold


This breed is identifiable by its adorable folded ears. They're friendly and adaptable and will become interested in what's around them. 
Their intelligence can be a double-edged sword. It makes them easy to train but also means they need more engagement than other breeds. Make sure you're home often enough to give it to them.

More Ways to Find the Best Cats for Apartments


Always check your apartment's
 pet policy before deciding which animal to adopt. Do they have any restrictions on breeds or weight? Do they allow pets at all?

Avoid rambunctious breeds that need more room to run. These include the following:

  • Aybssian
  • Balinese
  • Bengal
  • Savannah
  • Siberian

81% of kittens in animal shelters get adopted compared to only 54% of senior cats. Older pets are calmer and quieter, making them perfect for apartments, and you can save a life. Get multiple cats if you can. They'll keep each other entertained while you're away.

a cat laying on its side on a bed

Finding the Best Apartments With Pets

Choosing the best cats for apartments starts with reviewing the building's pet policy. Which ones are allowed, and which ones are not?


The next step is finding the right one for you. Choose quieter, calmer breeds. Give them enough mental and physical stimulation, and consider getting a senior or more than one. 
Spring Creek offers apartments in Derby that are cat-friendly. Schedule a tour today.