The 20 Best Cat Breeds for City Living
Living in the city doesn’t mean that you can’t own a pet. If you’re a cat lover then we have good news for you. There are several breeds of cats who do well in city environments. If you live in an apartment or small house, we have some recommendations for cats that will do well as a member of your household. Here are the top twenty cat breeds for city living.
Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats make wonderful indoor pets for practically any size or type of home. While they’re among big biggest and furriest cats, they are known to be very affectionate and loving creatures. They are intelligent cats who learn quickly and are easily house trained if you have a little time and patience. Ragdolls tend to bond with their owners very quickly. They form strong bonds and enjoy becoming lap cats. While they are typically quiet, and don’t do a lot of talking, the do purr constantly when they’re being cuddled.
They are highly adaptable and soon become comfortable in a new living environment, provided they are given the love and care that is required for any cat. The only downside to owning a Ragdoll cat is that they have a lot of fur and they shed their coats moderately. They require twice a week brushing to keep the furballs under control in your home. There will be a little more cleaning involved, but for many city dwellers who own Ragdoll cats, it’s a good tradeoff.
American Shorthair
The American Shorthair cat breed is known to be one of the most mellow cats in the world. This is one of the reasons why they are among the most popular house cat found in cities. if you live in a small apartment or house, it won’t be a problem for this laid back kitty. American Shorthairs don’t require large spaces. Just as long as they have enough room to move around, a bed of their own and the love of their pet parents, most adapt to smaller environments very well. They have affectionate personalities and a love of giving and receiving attention. This breed has one of the longest lifespans of all cat breeds, so if you’re looking for a partner that will be with you for years, this is one of your best options. They also tend to have fewer health problems than some of the other breeds of felines. They’re generally quiet and have a soft voice that won’t annoy you or any neighbors who may be just on the other side of thin apartment walls. They are intelligent and learn quickly, so litter training usually goes quickly.
Persian
Persian cats are popular with owners who live in the city first and foremost because of their beautiful long hair and gorgeous appearance. They are fluffy and regal in appearance. Persians are not known to be excessively vocal so you won’t need to worry about them upsetting the neighbors with constant crying. They are only vocal when they have a need or become frightened. This intelligent cat is easy to box train if you begin from the first day that they arrive in your home. Positive reinforcement techniques and a little patience are all that is required because they are a naturally clean animal and like to toilet in one specific area. It’s up to you to establish just where that place will be. They’re affectionate, but don’t require constant attention from their pet parents. The one downside to owning a Persian cat is that their coat is very thick and they do shed. You will need to brush and groom this at at least twice a week, and plan on doing a little more cleaning to pick up all the hair that they shed. If this isn’t a problem and you like fluffy cats, then the Persian may be the right choice for you.
Maine Coon
Maine Coon cats are another insanely popular breed and they’re not just found in the country. Many owners who live in the city have wonderful success with Maine Coons. Although they are one of the largest cat breeds, surprisingly, they don’t require a lot of space. They do just as well in an apartment or smaller house as they would on a rambling farm. They make wonderful house pets for families with children. These affectionate and loving cats truly enjoy the company of humans. They are known for a gentle temperament and get along well with children and other animals. They are among the most tolerant feline breeds in the world. They like to play, but they are also patient and don’t get easily upset. These are the qualities that make them in such high demand as house pets. Be prepared for moderate shedding though. Maine Coons have a thick and fluffy coat that does shed. it helps to give them a daily brushing to keep the amount of hair down. Plan on cleaning the upholstery and floors a little more often when a Maine Coon comes to stay.
Sphynx Cat
The Sphynx cat is one of the strangest looking breeds on the planet, but this is also a part of their tremendous appeal. They are known as a hairless cat and this makes them one of the best pet options for people who have allergies, or those who do not want to deal with cleaning up pet hair. This bred was created in th 1960s through selective breeding. They are energetic cats, but also known to be very friendly, and good with other animals and children. This makes them a good house pet for both families and singles who are seeking feline companionship. These cats form strong bonds with their owners and are very loyal. You’ll need to have time to dedicate for play if you adopt a Sphynx cat, because they have a big time need for interaction with their humans. They’re not the best choice for people who are seldom home. Sphynx cats also require extra attention and skincare regimens. The lack of a coat makes their skin vulnerable it is must be moisturized periodically to avoid common skin problems. While they’re not big talkers, they’e not quiet either. If your Sphynx cat is out of food or water, or frightened, they will let you know.
The Domestic Moggy
A Domestic Moggy is not a recognized breed, but it does exist. Moggies are tabby cats that are a combination of different cat breeds, but they are known by the stripes and various swirl marking patterns that distinguish them. While the personalities of these cats can vary widely, they are known to be a faithful domestic cat. They can make amazing household pets under most conditions if they are properly socialized, trained early, and given the attention that they need. When you’re in the city, you’ll see quite a few of them prowling the streets. Many will end up in shelters and will be up for adoption. Most cats have the potential for becoming well-rounded house pets if they are given the right kind of attention and care. If the opportunity comes up to adopt a Moggy, don’t turn away because it isn’t a purebred. If you form a connection with the cat, there is a good chance that he will become the love of your life.
The British Shorthair
British short hair cats are a version of the traditional domestic cat found in Britain, that has become a recognized breed and pedigreed. They are easy to spot because of their solid, thick bodies, their stocky faces and the dense coat of fur that covers their already ample bodies. This breed is known for its high intelligence which makes it easy to train. They are known for enjoying their playtime and will likely want you to be involved. These cats are also affectionate and loving. They’re not excessively vocal, so you won’t need to worry about your kitty disturbing the neighbors with loud crying. They adapt well to both small and large living areas, but be forewarned that you are in for a little more housework. They are moderate shedders and there is going to be cat hair on the floors and on furnishings. If this is an issue, the British Shorthair may not be the best choice for you. If it’s not a problem, a daily brushing should help cut down on the amount of hair you’ll need to pick up.
The Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex are a breed of cats that have a sleek appearance, similar to the dog breed. They are known for their high intelligence and most are easy to toilet train and to house train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and learn quickly. A Cornish Rex does love to play fetch and they can even be trained to perform a few cute tricks. Be prepared to spend play time with a Cornish Rex. They are adventurous and enjoy poking around their environment to see what’s going on. They only become destructive when they become bored, so it’s a good idea to make sure that you keep your cat supplied with toys. They get along well with children and other animals and are usually friendly creatures. The energy level is moderate. They are neither hyper cats nor lazy, so if you want a pet that will give you love, affection and some great entertainment, then the Cornish Rex may be your best option.
Russian Blue
The Russian Blue cat breed is a popular cat for city dwellers for a few different reasons. They are intelligent cats who learn quickly. This makes toilet training and house training easy if you’re consistent from day one. This cat does tend to have an independent streak, but will still depend on their owner for love and affection. They are playful in nature, but only bond with one or two humans at a time. This makes them the ideal house pet for either a single or couple. Because they are so smart, these cats can be taught tricks such as fetch, and others. They are very entertaining and light up the room with their presence. If you’re looking for an interesting companion cat that isn’t a big time shedder, then the Russian Blue may be the right cat for you.
Siamese
Siamese cats are one of the most popular cat breeds for people who live in the cities. They are medium sized cats who have great big personalities. While some cats tend to be antisocial, this isn’t the case with Siamese cats. They have the personality of a dog in the body of a cat. This energetic cat is a real character and if it’s companionship and attention that you crave, this is the perfect cat because it won’t leave your side. They like hanging out with you no matter what it is that you’re doing and they’re even known for trying to help on occasion. If you have a laser pointer, then you are in for an evening of sheer entertainment because your cat will enjoy chasing the light for hours. The only real drawback to this cat is that they do tend to be extremely vocal. It may not be the best choice if you live in an apartment building with thin walls, but if you’re in a house that is not attached to others, this cat makes a good city kitty.
Donskoy
Donskoy is a Russian cat breed that is a lot like the Sphynx. They are similar looking. This hairless cat is a good choice for people who live in the city and want a cat, but have allergies. There is no fur to worry about, but you will need to keep his skin moisturized. These cats are known for having a thin downy layer of fur, but it doesn’t look like they have a coat at all. This is why their skin requires care. This unusual cat will sweat when it gets too warm. It is difficult to regulate its body temperature so it should be kept in a temperature controlled environment that is neither too warm nor too cold. They do require a little extra care, but this affectionate and sweetly tempered cat makes a wonderful house pet. They get along very well with children and other pets, and they love to cuddle. They’re not loud or particularly vocal, but they’ll let you know if they need something.
Peterbald
The Peterbald cat breed is one that has its origins with the Russian Donskoy breed. You cannot ever be certain if the kittens will be born hairless or with hair. If you wanted a hairless kitten and one is born with fur, don’t despair because as this cat ages, the hair falls out and doesn’t grow back, except for the fine downy layer. This cat is a slender creature in build and the large ears give it a unique appearance. They have small heads which make their eyes loo even bigger. These are intelligent and social cats who form strong bonds with their owners. They have a tendency to follow them around the house to see what they’re up to. This nosy cat is affectionate and friendly. They make wonderful companions for people who have allergies because there is no shedding.
Javanese
The Javanese cat breed is one of the most popular choices for city living because they are very low maintenance and they don’t shed their coat. This makes them a wonderful house pet for cat lovers who suffer with allergies. Javanese do not appear to be bald. While most cats have three layers of fur which are the down, the awn and the guard hairs, Javanese only have the guard hairs. They look like the average cat in appearance, but don’t shed their coats. They are a friendly breed that gets along well with other animals and children. They adapt to most environments and don’t need a lot of living space. Whether you live in a large home or a small apartment, the Javanese will be right at home as long as you’re there with them.
Bengal
There are many cat owners who live in the city and prefer the Bengal breed. This cat is one of the most attractive with a look that reminds you of a wildcat. They are a hybrid breed that is made up of wild Asian at and domestic cat. Bengals don’t shed their coats so they’re a good choice for cat lovers with allergies. It is their beautiful and intricately patterned coats that make them so highly prized as a house pet. These unique cats are not only gorgeous, but they are also happy when they are with their pet parents. They are friendly and loving and they love to be groomed, although they don’t need it. It is mostly the attention and the human touch that they enjoy. These cats do tend to be talkative and this could be an issue if you’re in an apartment with thin walls. Other than this, they don’t require a lot of living space and they are a joy to be around.
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex cat breed is often mistaken for a Cornish Rex because of the similar fur texture, but there are no genetic connections. This is a good choice for people who prefer a cat that does not shed. Although there is some shedding, it is very minimal. This cat has a unique appearance and is often referred to as an “alien” because of its think fur and big ears. They are a friendly breed who quickly bond with their owners. They are not overly talkative which makes them a good choice for apartment living. They are known for their high intelligence and can be taught tricks that will keep you entertained for hours.
Laperm
Laperms are a breed that is unusual in comparison to most other breeds. They have a coat that is thick, wavy and long, making them look extremely fluffy. The oddity about these ats is that it is very rare that they shed their coats. They are highly intelligent and love to learn new tricks. This playful cat enjoys being in the company of their owners and they form strong bonds with their family. Despite the thick coat, this cat doesn’t need much grooming. They adapt well to either large or small living spaces, making them a good choice for either house or apartment dwellers.
Siberian
Siberian cats originate in Russia and are a large sized cat that have a thick coat. What makes this cat so unique is that the hair does shed, but it gets caught in the first and second layers, forming a ball before it drops. This makes cleanup a lot easier. These cats have an amazing musculature and they are capable of achieving amazing speed. They are high jumpers and are not the best choice for small apartment living. This doesn’t mean that they’re not city cats though. Siberians do well in larger living spaces with high loft areas to jump upon. They are intelligent and can be trained to walk on a leash. Use a strong leash because they are fast cats and if he breaks free, you may not be able to catch him. While this cat isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, it is a popular choice for people who like active cats that are always willing to play.
Korat
Korats are a breed that originate in Thailand. They are a silver bluish color that resembles a Russian Blue. Most have green eyes and a short coat that only consists of one layer of fur. They don’t shed much and are a good choice for people with allergies. Korats aren’t particularly social with strangers, but they do love their owners with a passion. Be warned that Korats are strong willed creatures and may be a little hard to train. You first need to gain their respect and trust.
Colorpoint Shorthair
Colorpoint Shorthairs are a relative of the Siamese breed of cats. The difference between the is that the Colorpoints come in a great variety of colors. This breed has a short coat that rarely sheds. Frequent brushing should take care of the problem of cat hair on the furniture. They are friendly cats that love their owners and show affection freely, but when strangers are around, they get nervous. They don’t like loud noises either, so a more calm and quiet environment works best for this breed. They make good house pets when properly socialized and they don’t need a lot of living space to be comfortable.
Japanese Bobtail
Th Japanese Bobtain breed has been around for hundreds of years. They are easy to identify by the tail that looks more like a rabbit’s tail. They have short coats that only shed on occasion. They don’t need a lot of grooming and a weekly brushing is quite enough. This cat is a smart and social creature that gets along well with other animals and children. He’s a talker and he’ll keep you entertained for hours. He prefers to live in the house with people and is enjoys purring on your lap while you stroke his fur.
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