Cat Breed: 6 Apartment-Friendly Cats

Contrary to popular belief, cats make incredible companions. Affectionate, territorial, and intelligent, cats are self-sufficient. We know that cats are not up for cuddles 24/7 like dogs are, but that does not make them any less lovable. They do prefer their own space, though. The best part? When they quietly sidle up to you and plop themselves on your lap, asking for affection in their own way.

Different cat breeds have different personalities. Some love to stay outdoors, some prefer the cozy laziness of a home. Cats are also suited to different lifestyles. Some cats love to be around people, while others may like to stay aloof. Before you decide to bring a furry little friend into your house, check out these 6 apartment-friendly cats first!

Gentle, docile, and very affectionate, the Ragdoll is a crossbreed between the beautiful Persian Cat and the Birman Tom. They are ideal for a majority of households, considering their need for companionship with the people around them. They love to play with the cat toys and are great cuddlers, nuzzling their furry bodies to you whenever they get a chance. However, you need to keep in mind that Ragdolls need someone to be around them at all times.

If you live in an apartment alone, or if the house remains empty for the better part of the day, we suggest you get another pet to keep them company. They are super social and get along with children and seniors alike. If you do take them out for a walk do keep a watchful eye as they take to strangers very easily. The Ragdoll, rightly named so – since they tend to go limp like the doll when someone lifts them – are not high climbers. They prefer cat trees at a lower level but mostly they are simply happy to lounge around in different corners. They are quick to learn the things you teach them and will do well with praise and treats.

With eyes as blue as sapphire and a nose as cute as a button, the long-haired Birman cat is a breed that requires little maintenance. Though their origin remains a mystery, they were first recognized in France and called the Sacred Cat of Burma in French before the phrase was shortened to Birman.

The pale-coated Birman cat is beautiful with white fur (which requires grooming only about once or twice a week!) covering their limbs to make them look like socks. These cute little curious creatures love to explore new places, and if you cannot find them at your apartment, they are probably out on a new adventure. They are independent, laidback, and can quickly adapt to any environment, which is why they are perfect for you if you are a working professional. They are quite playful and possess a gentle, mild temperament.

The Bombay Cat has an intriguing appearance. Their glimmering golden eyes perfectly complement their pitch-black short-haired coat, making them look like little black panthers. Don’t be intimidated, though! Bombay Cats are pretty amicable in nature and quick to learn new tricks in exchange for head pats and tasty treats.

The Bombay Cat breed was developed by an American breeder, Nikki Horner, in the 1950s. She named it “Bombay” after the sleek panthers found in Bombay at the time. Bombay Cats are of two kinds – the British and the American Bombay. Their calm demeanour is the prime reason why they are apartment-friendly cats, even if you stay in a small one. Moreover, their ability to learn things quickly and very little need for grooming are plus points.

(Photo by Joseph Morris)

A cat that loves to lounge instead of playing around, the Himalayan Cat is a cross between the Persian and Siamese cats. Their constant yearning for companionship and fierce loyalty make them delightful pets.

Since they are not really active, the Himalayan Cat is suitable for people who do not have much space in their apartments. However, they can be slightly high maintenance as their long coat needs to be brushed and groomed every day to keep it tangle-free. They also don’t do well when left alone for too long. If you stay out for most of the day, we suggest you get another little furry friend.

(Photo by Finn Frode)

One of the most active cat breeds, Somali is often referred to as the ‘genius cat’ owing to their intelligence. They can hardly stay still and are often found leaping from the chair to the countertop, running from one end of the house to the other, or chasing something that has grabbed their attention.

The Somali Cat is a long-haired version of the Abyssinian cat, and has a slender body with bushy tails. They require daily brushing to keep their fur soft. They love to make new friends and will quickly adjust to people of all ages. Somali cats are high on energy and playfulness and need an involved level of engagement from you.

(Photo by Michael Broad)

Commonly known as the Indian Billi, Spotted Cats have an eccentric beauty. With grey spots all over their body and a long, slender tail, these furry felines are quite shy initially. However, once they are comfortable with you, you get to see their loud, affectionate side. They are wild by nature, and it takes time for them to trust you but it’s vital to be patient with them.

Even though they might be physically distant from you in the first few weeks, they will appreciate the food and the bed you make for them. If your apartment has open spaces around it, the Spotted Cat is the perfect pet for you. Since they are native to India and Sri Lanka, they can adapt to the tropical climate pretty well, which is an added bonus!

In addition to the aforesaid cats, you can also choose one from the several others available in India. Since India has varied climatic regions, it is tricky to find a cat that can adapt to it, depending on where you live. Persian, Shorthairs, and Maine Coon cats are perfect for the North Indian climate, while the Egyptian Mau and the Abyssinian are better-suited to South India.

Indian law grants people the right to own a pet regardless of whether you live in a bungalow or an apartment. If you live in a rented apartment, it is advisable to talk to the owner first to avoid any confusion later.

The Animal Welfare Board of India advises pet owners to ensure that their pets do not cause any nuisance to the other residents. As a responsible cat owner in an apartment (or anywhere else), you too have certain responsibilities to fulfil to ensure your cat and the people around are safe and healthy.

They are:

1. Vaccinate your cat and keep their medical records updated before adopting them. TriCat or Feligen CRP, as well as anti-rabies vaccines, must be renewed every year.

2. Take them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. (At Wagr, we provide hassle free online vet consultation at your convenience)

3. Clean up after them whenever you take them out for walks.

4. Train your cat to relieve themselves in the house. You may use litter trays specifically dedicated for that purpose.

5. If you stay out for long hours, make sure to provide enough food and water for your cat. You can also leave a few toys for them to play with.

6. Spend time with them and make sure they get enough exercise.

7. Learn how to groom cats at home.

8. Cat-proof your apartment to ensure your cuddle buddy is free from any danger.

9. Do your homework well regarding the food, medicines, and habits of the feisty feline before adopting them.

10. If you want to see your cat family grow, you do not need to neuter them. However, if you cannot handle more than one cat, we suggest you get them neutered or spayed by the vet once you bring them home.

If you have stayed with us till here, we are assuming that you have thought it out well and are looking forward to adopting a cat.

Depending on the breed, cats may live up to twenty years, so they are here to stay in the long run. Once you provide them with love and care, they will slowly become part of your family, and before you know it, their little friends will pay you a visit or two as well. Not to forget the friends that you yourself will make owing to the adorable furball at your home!