Top 10 Cat Breeds for Apartment Living: Feline Friends for Cozy Spaces

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

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Cats make excellent companions, especially for those living in smaller spaces like apartments.

They are generally low-maintenance, independent, and don’t require as much space as larger pets like dogs.

However, not all cats are the same when it comes to temperament, energy levels, and adaptability to apartment living.

Some breeds are particularly well-suited for apartment life due to their calm demeanor, smaller size, or adaptability.

If you’re looking for the perfect feline companion to share your apartment, here are the top 10 cat breeds that thrive in a small space.

Top 10 Cat Breeds for Apartment Living

1. British Shorthair

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The British Shorthair is known for its calm and easygoing personality, making it a top choice for apartment living.

These cats are independent and don’t require constant attention, although they do enjoy spending time with their human companions.

British Shorthairs are not particularly active, so they are content lounging around in smaller spaces. With their dense coat and round face, they are both beautiful and low-maintenance.

2. Persian

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Persians are another great choice for apartment dwellers, thanks to their laid-back and affectionate nature.

They are known for being quiet and calm, spending most of their time lounging on soft surfaces.

While they do require regular grooming to maintain their long coats, their low energy levels and friendly personalities make them an excellent companion for small living spaces.

3. Ragdoll

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Ragdolls are famous for their relaxed and friendly personalities, often going limp when picked up, which is how they got their name.

These cats are known for being exceptionally affectionate and love to be around their humans.

Ragdolls are relatively low-energy and are content staying indoors, making them perfect for apartment living.

Their long fur requires some grooming, but their loving nature more than makes up for it.

4. Scottish Fold

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The Scottish Fold is known for its unique folded ears and sweet temperament.

These cats are calm, affectionate, and adapt well to apartment life.

They are relatively quiet and don’t demand much attention, though they do enjoy occasional playtime.

Scottish Folds are ideal for people who want a quiet and cuddly companion in their home.

5. Sphynx

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The Sphynx may be hairless, but they are full of personality! These cats are highly affectionate and love to be close to their owners.

They enjoy playing but don’t require a lot of space, making them ideal for apartment living.

Sphynxes are also hypoallergenic due to their lack of fur, which is a plus for those with allergies.

Despite their appearance, they are warm, loving companions who thrive in smaller spaces.

6. Maine Coon

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While Maine Coons are one of the larger cat breeds, they are known for their gentle and laid-back personalities, which make them surprisingly suitable for apartment life.

Maine Coons are friendly, adaptable, and enjoy being indoors.

They are also quite intelligent, so providing them with puzzle toys and engaging activities will keep them entertained in smaller spaces.

7. Russian Blue

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The Russian Blue is a quiet and reserved breed, making it an excellent choice for apartment living.

These cats are known for their sleek blue-gray coat and vivid green eyes.

They tend to be shy around strangers but form strong bonds with their owners.

Russian Blues are not overly active and are content in smaller spaces, provided they have a cozy place to call their own.

8. Burmese

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Burmese cats are affectionate and social, often following their owners from room to room.

Despite their energetic personality, Burmese cats are small in size and adapt well to apartment living.

They are playful and curious but don’t require a lot of space to stay happy.

With their short coat, Burmese cats are low-maintenance and make wonderful companions for people living in apartments.

9. Siamese

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Siamese cats are known for their vocal personalities and striking blue eyes.

While they are more talkative than other breeds, they are also incredibly affectionate and bond strongly with their owners.

Siamese cats enjoy interactive play but don’t require much space, making them suitable for apartment living.

They do well in environments where they receive plenty of attention, making them a great choice for someone looking for a loyal, loving companion.

10. Exotic Shorthair

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The Exotic Shorthair is essentially a short-haired version of the Persian cat, known for its quiet and affectionate demeanor.

These cats are low-maintenance thanks to their short coat, and they are calm and gentle, making them ideal for apartment life.

Exotic Shorthairs are playful but not overly active, making them a great match for someone seeking a relaxed and loving pet without the grooming requirements of a long-haired breed.

Conclusion

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a cat. There are plenty of breeds that adapt well to smaller spaces, provided they have the right environment and care.

Whether you’re looking for a calm and laid-back companion or a playful and affectionate friend, one of these cat breeds is sure to be a perfect fit for your apartment lifestyle.

Understanding each breed’s needs and temperament will help you choose the best feline friend for your space.

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