Avoid Home Cat-astrophes: The Best Apartment Cats for Renters

If you researched the best dog breeds for apartments and decided to get a cat instead, your landlord might be even happier with your choice than you are. That’s because cats are generally considered the ultimate apartment companions — they’re clean, quiet and, most important, independent.

As a result, most pet-friendly apartments welcome cats of any kind. But, that doesn’t mean that all cats share the same traits — you could end up with a hyperactive “cathlete”, a scratcher or, more often than not, a meower who likes to be heard. And, while pet restrictions tend to be more relaxed when it comes to our feline friends as opposed to certain breeds of dogs or exotic pets, some cats are actually more suitable for a rental than others. Keep reading to find out which ones are the best fit for apartment life!

1. Ragdoll

 

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A post shared by Ragdoll Cat Lovers (@ragdollcatdaily) on Nov 18, 2019 at 8:13pm PST

• Coat: medium-long
• Weight: 8-20 pounds
• Energy level: medium

A larger breed with a fuller coat may not be the first choice for an apartment companion, but the Ragdoll is among the best apartment cats — especially with a few extra grooming sessions a week. They are sociable creatures — both with humans and other cats — and are as clingy and affectionate as they are easygoing and independent. This beautiful cat will play and follow you around the house only to drop in your lap and purr to no end. They don’t call them ragdolls for nothing!

2. Persian

 

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• Coat: long
• Weight: 7-12 pounds
• Energy level: low

Do you like your apartment cats even fluffier? If so, then the ever-popular Persians are just for you. One of the most beautiful breeds out there, Persians are more than just a pretty face. These real-life plushies have a gentle nature, usually like to lay low and are typically on the quiet side, which makes them “purrfect” for apartment-dwellers in search of a mellow roommate. Plus, they’re also very adaptable and do well in small places, so they won’t mind sharing your studio.

3. British Shorthair

 

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• Coat: short
• Weight: 7-17 pounds
• Energy level: medium-low

As their name suggests, this breed needs less grooming than others on our list. They’re also perfect if you’re looking for a cat that can do well on its own, as well as entertain itself when you’re not around. Plus, British Shorthairs manage to be independent without being dismissive and affectionate without being clingy. They also adapt well to their human’s personality and rarely refuse playtime, even though they’re pretty inactive otherwise, and as such are some of the best apartment cats around.

4. Russian Blue

 

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• Coat: short
• Weight: 8-15 pounds
• Energy level: medium

If there ever was a curious cat, the Russian Blue is it. This breed likes to follow you around the house and see what you’re doing, but will soon retreat to spend some time alone. A loyal breed, Russian Blues tend to bond with one person and can be standoffish to strangers or people they don’t know well. Although they’re not overly active, these cats do have occasional bursts of energy and love toys. The coolest thing about them? Their amazing, blueish fur produces fewer proteins that cause allergies.

5. Maine Coon

 

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• Coat: long
• Weight: 10-25 pounds
• Energy level: medium

With a coat like this, grooming is a must, but it pays off! Maine Coons grow bigger than other cats, but that just means there’s more of them to pet and cuddle with. And, despite their size, these big kitties do well in smaller homes with less leg room. Those who already have a Maine Coon in their life already know that this glorious specimen is among the smartest in the animal kingdom. And, much like the Russian Blue, this affectionate breed sticks to its favorite human, but also enjoys being part of a family, as well.

6. American Shorthair

 

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A post shared by American Shorthair House (@americanshorthairhouse) on Dec 18, 2019 at 12:26am PST

• Coat: short
• Weight: 10-15 pounds
• Energy level: medium

The American Shorthair is the epitome of the family cat. Laid-back, sociable and low-maintenance, they do well with children and other pets. These cats take their naps seriously and are easily entertained — all they require is a window to look out of and time from you to pet and scratch their back. They also enjoy long lifespans, which makes them even more popular when you’re looking for a fluffy friend for the long run.

7. Birman

 

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• Coat: long
• Weight: 10-12 pounds
• Energy level: medium

There’s more than meets the eye (those big, beautiful eyes!) to these cute fluffballs. The rare Birmans love catnaps and are usually calm, although they can quickly become playful out of nowhere. Extremely friendly, these cats get along with just about any other pet. And, despite their silky coat, Birmans are surprisingly quick and easy to groom. This breed thrives on spending time with their human, so make sure playtime and petting sessions are an everyday occurrence.

8. Scottish Fold

 

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A post shared by Scottish Fold House (@scottishfoldhouse) on Dec 29, 2019 at 10:56am PST

• Coat: short
• Weight: 9-13 pounds
• Energy level: medium-low

Yep, the ones with the ears! Scottish Folds love their owners and expect the same affection in return. That said, they do enjoy their own space and aren’t very clingy. In fact, Scottish Folds have a pretty relaxed nature and like their routine. Smart and highly adaptable, this breed is perfect if you’re a big-city dweller looking for a pet that is calm and doesn’t startle easily.

Regardless of the breed, cats tend to have their own personalities, so make sure to train yours as early as possible, and cat-proof your apartment to keep them safe. And, no matter what breed you choose, it’s hard to find a pet more suitable for apartment living than these furballs!