Which Cat Breeds Are Best Suited for Apartment Living?

Not all cats crave the outdoors. Some breeds prefer safety, comfort, and tranquility indoors, making them perfectly suited for apartment living.

Cats are often seen as independent animals that like to roam freely. However, some breeds are more comfortable staying indoors, enjoying the calm and security of home life. These cats are generally less active and quieter, though they still need stimulation, play, and companionship. Here are 10 cat breeds that adapt particularly well to apartment living.

1. American Curl

The American Curl is easily recognized by its distinctive backward-curled ears, arched between 90° and 180°. Beyond its unique look, it is a gentle, calm, and quiet companion. Rarely vocal, it fits perfectly in an indoor environment.

It adapts well to all families – whether with children, seniors, or single owners – and thrives in apartments as long as it has the right accessories like scratching posts, cat trees, and toys to stay entertained.

2. Russian Blue

Elegant and beautiful, the Russian Blue is also known for its discretion. It rarely meows, preferring calm and silence over noise and agitation, which makes it ideal for apartment living. This breed feels most comfortable in a quiet household.

Often seen with its signature short blue-gray coat, some Russian Blues can also be white or black. While laid-back, it still enjoys occasional playtime indoors.

3. Chartreux

The Chartreux is famous for its dense, woolly blue-gray fur and dog-like temperament – it often follows its owner around. Intelligent and curious, it enjoys exploring but remains a calm cat overall.

Though not a big talker, the Chartreux adapts well to apartment living. It appreciates safe outdoor access if possible, but always prioritizes returning to the warmth and security of home.

4. Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair is the shorthaired cousin of the Persian. Like the Persian, it has a flat, brachycephalic face, which can cause respiratory or dental issues. Despite this, it is beloved for its patience and gentle nature.

This breed is calm, rarely aggressive, and gets along with children, cats, and even other pets. It is not very vocal and enjoys indoor comfort, though it must be encouraged to play to prevent obesity.

5. Korat

The Korat, a rare Thai breed, is more common in the UK and North America. Recognized by its shimmering blue-silver coat and striking green eyes, the Korat is a calm, quiet, and affectionate companion.

It avoids noise and prefers peaceful homes. Exclusively an indoor cat, it enjoys resting but still needs toys and indoor play areas to remain stimulated.

6. Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat has wild origins but has adapted wonderfully to domestic life, including apartments. Affectionate, intelligent, and gentle, it bonds well with families and children.

Though it enjoys indoor comfort, it still requires interaction, games, and activity to stay happy.

7. Persian

The Persian, descended from the Turkish Angora, is known for its luxurious long coat and brachycephalic face. One of the oldest and most popular breeds, the Persian is calm, sweet, and expressive.

It dislikes change, preferring routine in meals, rest, and play. Lazy by nature, it loves naps and adapts easily to apartment living with its predictable lifestyle.

8. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is an affectionate, patient cat that prefers lounging indoors over exploring outside. Known for its gentle nature and love of children, it rarely meows and is never aggressive.

Highly adaptable, it is perfect for apartment life. It dislikes being left alone, though, and depends on family interaction.

9. Birman (Sacred Cat of Burma)

The Birman is famous for its sweet and docile temperament. Calm, discreet, and affectionate, it thrives in apartments. It is loyal to its owner, curious with strangers, and generally friendly.

Though it enjoys exploring, it always values the safety of home.

10. Sphynx

The Sphynx appears hairless but actually has a fine layer of down. Without protection from cold, it is happiest indoors. Apartment life suits it perfectly, provided it has toys and opportunities for exercise.

Sociable, intelligent, and affectionate – sometimes clingy – the Sphynx gets along well with children and other pets.

Apartment-Friendly Cat Breeds Overview

• Sources:
• American Veterinary Medical Association
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

• Discover also
• British Shorthair