10 cat breeds that don’t mind living indoors as long as you exercise them properly

Many cats are not bothered at all if they have to spend their lives in an apartment, as long as you take care of them properly. Pets that are suitable for keeping in the apartment are usually easy to handle and have a fairly adaptable temperament. Cats with a low or medium energy level will also do well in small living spaces.

Here are 10 cat breeds that are suitable for keeping in an apartment, and even enjoy staying there, and do not require much space. However, even in this case, it is particularly important to enrich the small apartment in order to stimulate the cat mentally and physically. Also, to provide the animal with climbing opportunities and places to sit, ideally near a window, so that it can still be in contact with the outside world.

In general, it is worth looking for cat breeds that are calm, friendly and do not require excessive attention. At the same time, it is worth avoiding breeds with high intelligence, since in their case it is not certain that an apartment will provide enough mental stimulation for them to reach their full potential. As a consequence, they may even engage in quite destructive behaviors.

1. American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is an extremely laid-back cat that especially loves spending time with its owner. These animals do especially well in an apartment, as long as you are home long enough to satisfy their social needs. They are also breeds that like to entertain themselves, so separation anxiety is not very common in their case.

2. Birman

The sweet and gentle Birman is quite affectionate and does not require a large area. These calm animals just want to be where their favorite human is, so the size of their home doesn’t matter. Their playful side is especially dominant, and if they have the opportunity, they especially like to chase other pets. However, they don’t need a lot of space to feel comfortable.

3. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is an extremely adaptable breed that also feels comfortable in an apartment. These quiet, calm cats typically prefer to snuggle rather than run around the house. But they can have bursts of energy at times and love interactive games that challenge them both mentally and physically.

4. Burmese

The Burmese cat is typically a kind and cuddly animal. These sociable cats specifically seek the company of other pets and their owner, as they do not like solitude. In addition, they are quite sporty breeds, so if you keep them in an apartment, you will need to place different scratching posts or cat ladders at several points. They almost crave attention, so if you give them that, they’re unlikely to have a problem with the size of their home.

5. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic shorthair cats are calm and gentle. They usually prefer a warm bed or a soft pillow instead of intensive activities. They are moderately active and like to burn off some energy with cat toys before they go back to sleep.

6. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon, known by many as a “gentle giant”, can be excellent for keeping in an apartment due to its relaxed, friendly nature. These big cats love their owner but they can entertain themselves especially well. They can be excellent choices for owners who live in an apartment and cannot focus on their cat all day.

7. Persian

Persian cats really appreciate rest and relaxation. These gentle and calm cats are happy to plop down on any available soft surface and do not really require a significant amount of movement. Moreover, they do not particularly like to climb or jump, so they are ideal for small homes. And while they enjoy the company of their favorite people, they tend to be comfortable alone as well.

8. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is the perfect cat to keep in an apartment. Because the breed usually has a moderate energy level and adapts very well to the most diverse life situations, where it can feel at home very quickly. They are a bit playful, although their favorite activity is following their owner and getting plenty of rest.

9. Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is affectionate, but not the clingy type, so it is content to spend part of the day alone relaxing in a sunny spot and only spending time with its owner in the evening. These cats do not need a lot of space as they are generally quiet and reserved with a fairly moderate energy level. They like to play with cat toys, but you can often find them sitting high up somewhere, watching over their territory.

10. Scottish Fold

The friendly and calm Scottish Fold can adapt to many living situations, including apartments. These quiet cats love to participate in what their humans are doing, and one of their favorite activities is fetching. Food puzzles are good for their smart, curious nature, especially when you can’t be at home with them.

Some cat breeds are extremely active and may find themselves jumping on the walls of an apartment. These include the Abyssinian, Balinese, Bengal, Savannah and Siberian. These cats are generally adventurous and always looking for something to do. And if they don’t find enough enrichment factors in the small room, they probably won’t be happy and healthy.