If you're living in an apartment and thinking about adopting a cat, you're in luck — cats are naturally well-suited to smaller spaces. But some breeds adapt better than others, especially when it comes to energy levels, sociability, and noise.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best cat breeds for apartment life in Australia, plus care tips to keep your feline happy in a compact space.
🐾 What Makes a Cat Apartment-Friendly?
Ideal apartment cats typically:
- Are calm and content indoors
- Don’t need excessive stimulation
- Are not overly vocal or destructive
- Enjoy companionship (or tolerate alone time well)
- Are low- to moderate-energy
🏙️ 8 Best Cat Breeds for Apartment Living
1. Ragdoll
- Gentle, affectionate, and docile
- Often called the "puppy cat" for their relaxed nature
- Loves lounging in the same room as their owner
2. British Shorthair
- Calm, independent, and low-maintenance
- Less active but still enjoys some play
- Doesn’t demand constant attention
3. Scottish Fold
- Quiet and sweet-tempered
- Loves routine and cuddling in cosy spots
- Known for their folded ears and big eyes
4. Birman
- Friendly and affectionate without being clingy
- Gentle voice — not prone to loud meowing
- Beautiful, semi-long coat (minimal matting)
5. Russian Blue
- Reserved but loving once bonded
- Quiet and happy in their own space
- Hypoallergenic for some allergy sufferers
6. Sphynx
- Social and playful — thrives on human attention
- No fur = no shedding (but needs skin care)
- Needs warm, draft-free environments
7. Persian
- Super chill and couch-loving
- Low energy — perfect for apartment living
- Needs daily brushing due to their thick coat
8. Oriental Shorthair
- Sleek, elegant, and highly intelligent
- Very social — best in homes with company
- May be vocal, so not ideal if you prefer quiet
🧼 Tips for Raising a Cat in an Apartment
- Use vertical space: Cat trees, shelves, and window perches provide enrichment
- Keep a clean litter box: Daily scooping is key in smaller homes
- Provide scratching options: Save your furniture with scratching posts
- Rotate toys regularly: Prevent boredom with new textures and movement
- Set up a "safe space": A quiet corner with a bed or hidey-hole helps reduce stress
👩⚕️ Health Considerations for Apartment Cats
Cats living in apartments may develop:
- Obesity (due to lack of activity)
- Stress or boredom (especially if left alone often)
- Litter box issues (from poor hygiene or anxiety)
A vet can help with:
- Behaviour advice
- Weight and nutrition plans
- Environmental enrichment tips
💬 Final Thoughts
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy life with a cat. With the right breed and a bit of creativity, apartment cats can be just as happy and healthy as those with more room. It’s all about mental stimulation, clean spaces, and plenty of love.
🐾 Need Advice on Choosing the Right Cat?
Book a $49 consult with an Australian vet from Dial A Vet. Whether you're picking a breed or need help managing indoor cat behaviour, we’re here for you — anytime, anywhere.
🧠 FAQs
Q1: Can any cat live in an apartment?
Most can, but breeds with high energy or extreme independence may struggle in small spaces.
Q2: Is it cruel to keep a cat indoors?
No — indoor cats live longer and safer lives when their environment is enriched properly.
Q3: How do I stop my cat from scratching furniture?
Use scratching posts, deterrent sprays, and positive reinforcement.
Q4: Do cats get bored in apartments?
Yes, if unstimulated. Rotate toys, offer window views, and spend interactive time daily.
Q5: What’s the best cat for a first-time apartment owner?
Ragdolls and British Shorthairs are excellent choices for beginners.
📚 Citations
- RSPCA Australia. (2023). Indoor Cat Care. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.au
- Australian Veterinary Association. (2023). Choosing the Right Cat for Your Home. Retrieved from https://www.ava.com.au
- PetSure Australia. (2022). Top Cat Breeds for Apartment Living. Retrieved from https://www.petsure.com.au
