Burmese
Burmese are well suited for small families, where they can receive enough attention and affection.
These animals are easy to care for and do not require too much space to live. They are very playful and affectionate, which will be a plus for families with children.
Burmese
This short-haired breed is also sometimes called the “eternal kitten.” And for good reason. Representatives of this breed retain the character of a kitten until the end of their lives, which makes them an excellent choice for families with children or small families where they can pay enough attention to this playful and affectionate pet.
These graceful animals are people-oriented.
The weight of a Burmese cat can reach 6 kg. Hence their nickname - “brick wrapped in silk.”
Maine Coons
Cats of this breed attract many people. Their unusual appearance and almost human features attract the eye. By nature, these proud animals are quite affectionate and loyal to their owners. They treat strangers coolly and without much enthusiasm.
They get along well with other animals, but require a lot of space to live as they are one of the largest cat breeds. These beauties are suitable for adults or families with adult children.
Genetic testing has revealed that Maine Coons are descendants of Norwegian forest cats and a mysterious extinct domestic breed.
Exotic shorthair breed
Photo Credit: zilvinas.za Flickr via Compfight
A cat breed that was accidentally created by crossing the American Shorthair and Persian breeds. The breeders were just trying to achieve a new shade of fur and a more massive body, but in the end they got a new breed. Cats of this breed have the same flat face as Persians, but the hair is usually short. Although kittens with long hair are also born from exotic shorthairs and are even recognized by experts.
This breed is easy to train and probably understands the word “no” better than all other cat breeds. And of course, you will be pleased by the fact that exotics do not damage furniture and clothes even as kittens. They rarely use their claws at all.
Cats of this breed do not impose their company on people, but will play with pleasure if they are invited to participate. They sleep most of the day, and are usually active in the morning and evening. Therefore, he can easily endure loneliness while you are at work. This is one of the most affectionate and loyal cat breeds.
Lifespan: 12-13 years.
Weight and size: height - 25-30 cm, cat weight - 3-6 kg, cat weight - 2.5-4.5 kg.
Care: combing the fur during the molting period will get rid of hair on furniture and clothes. Exotics need to wipe their eyes with a damp cotton swab several times a week. It is enough to bathe your pet once a month.
Ragdolls
Ragdoll takes any pose that the owner chooses for him.
Ragdolls are one of the most popular family breeds. They were specially bred to be affectionate, obedient and patient with their owners. These cats are suitable for families with children, especially small children.
The unique ability of these pets is to remain completely relaxed even during a tight hug. It’s not for nothing that the literal translation of their breed sounds like “rag doll.”
Persian
Persians understand the value of rest and relaxation. These gentle and serene cats happily plop down on any available soft surface, especially your lap. They are not overly keen on climbing or jumping, making them ideal for small homes. And while they enjoy the company of their beloved owners, they also tend to have a great time alone.
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British
The British are not a particularly playful breed. They prefer a calmer and more measured lifestyle, so such pets are suitable for adults or families with older children.
Despite some laziness, the British remain patient and obedient animals.
If, according to myths, cats of other breeds have 9 lives, then the British have no less than 20! With proper care, representatives of this breed live on average two decades.
Bombay cat
Bombay cat
Bombay cats are always pure black in color. The eyes are yellow. The coat is shiny, shimmers in the sun, and looks like satin or silk. This is an excellent companion and a full-fledged member of the family.
Advantages and disadvantages
Bombay cats are by nature: joyful, balanced, and quickly become attached to people.
They tolerate any changes in life well.
Even if they don’t like something, they will not be capricious or show character in any other way.
They love to watch what is happening on the TV screen.
They get along well with dogs, but may not get along with other felines.
The animal is quite noisy and active, so it must be provided with a large number of toys.
Manx
This unusual tailless cat is an example of true devotion and love. These cats are very playful and intelligent, so you can often hear comparisons of this breed with dogs.
Some skillful owners manage to teach their Manx some commands. These cats are very sociable and active, so they are suitable for both active adults and children.
Breeds to Avoid
Some cat breeds are very active and may become uncomfortable in small spaces. Such as: Abyssinian, Bali, Bengal, Savannah and Siberian. These cats tend to be adventurous and are always looking for something to do. And if they can't find enough room in your small space, they probably won't be happy or healthy.
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Abyssinians
These beautiful short-haired felines have wonderful personalities.
They are smart, playful, active and loyal to affection. They will fit perfectly into an active family or a family with children.
The calmest breeds
The best cat breeds for apartments based on the criterion of balanced character include:
- Scottish Fold: quickly becomes attached to owners, but does not really like strangers;
- British Shorthair: easily gets used to a new home and is ready to contact the family;
- Persian: this breed of cat is suitable for those who like to communicate frequently with their pet. For Persians, the attention of their owners is very important, and they rarely show their dissatisfaction;
- Burmese: affectionate and playful cats, get along well with people of different age categories;
- Russian Blue: the pride of Russian selection. An extremely friendly breed, which nevertheless is able to easily tolerate the long absence of the owner from the house. One of the most common cats in the world;
- ragdoll: a beautiful purebred cat, has a very kind and gentle disposition;
- exotic: a fashionable breed that harmoniously combines loyalty and unobtrusiveness;
- Canadian Sphynx: non-aggressive, quickly becomes attached to the owner, easily finds a common language with other animals. He can be taught tricks and walked in a harness.
Scottish fold cat
Russian blue cat
Exotic cat
Canadian Sphynx
This is interesting! Sphynxes rarely meow, which is important for a city apartment with thin walls.
American Shorthair
Americans are considered one of the most unpretentious and easy-to-care representatives of the cat family.
These cats have an easy-going character, they are affectionate, affectionate, and playful. They get along well with other animals and have good health.
Neva masquerade cat
The Neva Masquerade cat
is distinguished by its muscular body, powerful paws, shiny coat and fluffy tail. Males can reach up to 10 kg. Their eyes are light blue or bright blue.
Advantages and disadvantages
The character of the Neva Masquerade cat is balanced and calm.
They can show courage when defending their territory.
They communicate with the owner as equals. They show caution towards strangers.
They get along well with other pets, including parrots and rodents.
They shed a lot, so they will need frequent cleaning of the apartment.
Keeping a room less than 8 square meters can lead to mental disorders.
Siamese
And although for many Siamese are associated with aggressiveness and a bad character, this does not prevent these animals from remaining one of the most successful cats for an apartment.
Representatives of this breed are very intelligent, playful and affectionate. It is better to give preference to males; they are believed to be more loyal and gentle than females.
Easiest to care for
When choosing a cat for your home, you should take into account that this or that breed requires different attention. Long-haired beauties are not the best choice for busy owners because they leave a lot of hair on carpets and furniture.
On the other hand, a completely bald Sphynx is also not the easiest option. This breed has a special regulation of body temperature: they are cold in winter and sweat in summer. Therefore, it is quite difficult to provide them with a comfortable existence.
Sphynx cat
The list below includes short-haired cats that do not require lengthy brushing:
- Abyssinian (rarely sheds);
- Bombay (healthy and unassuming breed);
- Egyptian Mau (one of the oldest breeds, it is healthy and does not require special care);
- Cornish Rex (rarely sheds, the coat feels like velor);
- Siamese (combing once a week is enough);
- oriental (practically does not shed).
Bombay cat Egyptian Mau cat
Cornish Rex cat
Oriental cat
Important! Brushing the coat is not the only grooming requirement. Cleaning the eyes and ears, checking the condition of the teeth and claws - these are the things that are relevant for any cat.
Persians
These walking ottomans love a measured and leisurely lifestyle. They become very attached to their owners, while strangers do not arouse any interest in them.
They are well suited for those who are not used to an active lifestyle.
They love to explore new things and can be quite active if played with.
Of course, you cannot choose a pet based only on general descriptions. Each animal has its own character, sometimes unusual for the breed. So try to find a middle ground between your mind and your heart when choosing.
For what reason do people have pets? Some people lack warmth and comfort in their home, others want to take care of a living creature, others are looking for a faithful friend so as not to feel lonely. A large dog will be cramped in a small city apartment, but a cat is a suitable option.
Cats are wonderful companions for both single people and families with children. They are playful and active, you can have fun with them. Cats are independent, they calmly stay at home alone, and you don’t need to walk them several times a day. However, each breed has certain character traits and habits. How to choose the perfect pet for yourself?
Kurilian Bobtail
Kurilian Bobtail
A distinctive feature of the Kurilian Bobtail is its short, curved tail. The cat is small in size, muscular, with a clear contour of the body. Representatives of the breed can have short or semi-long hair.
Advantages and disadvantages
The cat has a soft character and is an excellent hunter and fisherman. Often brings various trophies into the house.
She becomes strongly attached to her owner and remains faithful to him throughout her life.
They are easy to train, which is why they are often compared to dogs.
Their cat tongue is rich. They not only meow, but also grumble, growl, and mutter.
They love to communicate with people, while making sounds similar to human speech.
Reacts to the commands “fu”, “give it” and “throw it”.
Minor disadvantages include not loving strangers. In front of the owner he will behave sedately, but when left alone as guests he can show aggression.
The cat does not like to sit on hands or laps.
What criteria must a cat living in an apartment meet?
A cat that lives in an apartment must have a calm, obedient and friendly character. Such pets easily tolerate the absence of their owner during the day and know how to keep themselves busy.
Which breed is not suitable for apartment living? Overly active and energetic individuals do not feel very good in the apartment. They want to constantly run, jump, drop something, tear up wallpaper and furniture. In addition, extroverted cats often do not tolerate confined spaces well. Their protest against closed doors will be expressed in loud meowing in the morning and various surprises like a flower pot knocked over from the windowsill.
Cornish Rex
Important qualities that a domestic cat should have:
- resistance to stress - some breeds do not tolerate moving, the introduction of other animals into the family, or even rearrangement of furniture;
- loyalty towards children - so that the pet does not show aggression towards the child;
- unpretentiousness in maintenance - long-haired breeds require regular and careful grooming.
Playful cats for the apartment
The most active and irrepressible breeds include:
- Abyssinian cat: always explores the whole house and climbs the hills, while managing to follow the movements of the owner. If it seems to her that the owner is busy with something more interesting, she will definitely rush to “help” him;
- Bengal cat: a miniature leopard that matches the habits of its wild ancestors. Bengals love to play and explore new things;
- Egyptian Mau: has many similarities with the Abyssinian cat, which is not surprising, since both active beauties were favorites of the pharaohs;
- Turkish Van: playfulness is about him. The cat loves to explore, climb and swim. Van really enjoys interacting with his owner and is devoted to only one owner all his life;
- Ocicat: a breed that adapts well to human habitation. Cats are great at opening cabinets, bedside tables and doors, and then enthusiastically explore the new space;
- Kurilian Bobtail: an aboriginal cat, has many canine traits in its character (very smart, devoted to its family, easily learns commands and is somewhat suspicious of strangers).
Bengal cat
Turkish van cat
Ocicat cat
Kurilian bobtail cat
This is interesting! Bobtails are one of the few cats that do not mark their territory. In addition, they love to swim, and therefore, in addition to hunting, they love fishing.
The most unpretentious cat breeds: minimum care, maximum pleasure
Domestic cats rarely leave their homes. A few brave pets, usually taken from the street, risk going for walks; the rest happily spend time near the window, watching the birds.
In the apartment where a cat lives, there are always traces of its residence - fur, odors, etc. Since the owners spend most of their time at work and want to relax in silence in the evening, it is advisable to choose those breeds that do not require careful care.
Unpretentiousness in maintenance is perhaps the most valuable quality for a pet living in a city apartment. Owners of the Sphynx have the least problems - these exotic cats have no fur at all. In addition, sphinxes are less likely than their furry counterparts to have periods of sexual heat - which means that there will not be a specific cat smell in the apartment.
If you don’t like hairless cats, you can opt for short-haired breeds:
Scottish fold cat
- Scottish Fold cat is very clean, has a soft coat with short guard hairs, quickly learns to use the litter box, is calm and friendly;
- Cornish Rex - these animals rarely shed, the owner does not have to collect scraps of fur everywhere every day;
- American Shorthair - easy to care for, self-sufficient and independent, calmly tolerates loneliness, but does not welcome excessive affection and increased attention to itself;
- Russian Blue cat is small in size and will fit perfectly into a small studio apartment, since it will not take up much space.
Persian breed
Photo Credit: jayohaycheen Flickr via Compfight
Probably the most beloved breed in the world. The most popular are Persians with long hair and a short nose, although there are also representatives of the breed with long noses. According to breed standards, Persians' eyes are quite bright and rich in color.
Persians are sedate and important cats who do not like fuss and loud sounds. Cats are conservative, preferring stability and predictability to changes and innovations. This is probably the only breed that does not try to climb somewhere higher, being content with more accessible surfaces. Since Persians are very fluffy cats, you need to be prepared for the fact that there will be a lot of hair on furniture and clothes.
Lifespan: 12-17 years.
Weight and size: height - 20-25 cm, weight of a cat - 4-5 kg, cat - 3-4 kg.
Care: Persians need to be brushed daily and they must be accustomed to this procedure from childhood, so that in the future they will be more relaxed about this procedure. Persian owners should pay special attention to their eyes and breathing. The eyes must be wiped periodically to prevent the accumulation of bacteria that cause conjunctivitis. And breathing problems can arise due to the structural features of the nose of this breed.
Cat breeds with good health
A kitten or adult cat taken from the street will have good health and good immunity. Such a pet must be taken to a veterinary clinic for examination in order to receive the necessary vaccinations and cure existing diseases, if any.
If the owners want to take a purebred pet into their home, they should pay attention to such animals as:
Bengal cat
- Bengal cat - has excellent health, a submissive disposition, loves to play and gets along well with children, is undemanding in care, has good genetics - for this reason she rarely gets sick;
- Siamese - a cat with a strict disposition and strong immunity, perfect for living with one owner, does not welcome other animals or large crowds of people nearby;
- Maine Coon - such a pet is more suitable for keeping in a private house, since it catches mice well, but it will also be comfortable and cozy in an apartment;
- Siberian is an ancient breed that calmly tolerates drafts and cold, rarely gets sick, but needs affection and care from the owner.
Top 10 most popular cat breeds in Russia
The ranking of the most famous cat breeds includes:
- Burmese cats. Burmas are great for those who are willing to pay a lot of attention to them. They are quite contact and gentle, and also do not require much space.
- Ragdoll. Families with younger children can safely get a Ragdoll. Representatives of the breed are sweet, obedient and affectionate with people. A distinctive feature of the Ragdoll is its rare patience.
- British shorthair cat. The British are lazy and measured, which corresponds to the popular opinion about all English people. They are patient and obedient, so you can safely leave a small child with them. With proper care, Britons can live for 2 decades.
- Manx. Not everyone can choose such a luxury as a Manx. Unlike other family cats, they are by no means calm. On the contrary, Manx cats require a lot of play, exercise and communication. They are very smart: some owners even teach them commands, which brings these animals closer to dogs.
- Abyssinian cat. Abyssinians have an expressive appearance and a wonderful disposition. They are gentle, intelligent and lively, making them suitable for active families with young children.
- Burmese shorthair cat. The Burmese is a good choice for those who love cute and active pets. The fact is that this breed is classified as “eternal kittens.” Burmese retain their childlike character until the end of their lives, so there is no more suitable pet for families with children or single people who are willing to pay a lot of attention to their pets. However, it is worth considering that the weight of these beauties can reach 6 kilograms. This is where their nickname comes from - “brick wrapped in silk.”
- American shorthair cats. Americans are the generalists of the cat world. They are affectionate, playful, have excellent health, appreciate the attention of the owner and get along well with other pets. And their short hair makes them easy to care for.
- Siamese cats. The Siamese are famous among the Russian people for their aggressiveness and quarrelsomeness. However, this is just a stereotype. Siamese cats are very smart and affectionate. They love to play and appreciate the attention of their owners. There is an opinion that boys of this breed are more loyal than girls. This must be taken into account when choosing who to get - a cat or a female cat.
- Persian cats. Persians remain one of the most popular cat breeds. There are reasons for this: they are attached to the family and prefer a measured lifestyle. However, they will not refuse to play if their beloved owner offers them.
- Maine Coon. The Maine Coon is one of the most sought after cats in the world. Her proud appearance and large dimensions cannot but attract the eye. Maine Coons are quite affectionate with their owners and get along well with other pets. But with strangers they maintain cool neutrality. Despite their considerable size, they do not need a lot of free space. Maine Coons get along better with adults, and therefore are not very suitable for families with small children.
This is interesting! According to genetic tests, Maine Coons are closely related to Norwegian Forest cats.
Burmese cat Ragdoll cat Manx cat
Abyssinian cat
Burmese cat
American shorthair cat
Siamese cat
Persian cat
Maine Coon cat
Playful and active: cats for families with children
The choice of a kitten for a family with small children should be approached with special responsibility. Firstly, the pet should not be aggressive - children love to drag animals by the tail, squeeze them and carry them from place to place. Some breeds, such as Siamese cats, are very sensitive to their own person and will not tolerate such treatment, taking revenge on the “offender” with a scratch or bite.
Secondly, for a family with a small child it is better to take a pet of a hairless or short-haired breed, such as a Sphynx. These pets are very loyal to children's pranks and extremely rarely respond to harassment with an attack.
It is important that the cat in the family loves to play and is not overly lethargic and apathetic. The most active and playful cat breeds:
Maine Coon
- Scottish Fold - easy to train, willing to interact with children, unpretentious in care;
- Maine Coon - a large and sociable cat with an easy-going character, high activity and good intelligence will become a faithful friend to a child;
- Abyssinian is a hyperactive cat, ready to play and frolic all day long, characterized by curiosity and a cheerful disposition, cannot stand loneliness and silence;
- The Bengal is active, playful and very smart, has a developed hunting instinct, loves games of tag, loves to swim and is not at all afraid of water.
Potential Difficulties
1. Cats go to the toilet . Yes, and “in a big way” too. Of course, cats are much more clean than dogs; they cannot go to the toilet due to carelessness or from excess emotions, but cats also happen to shit in the wrong place. There can be many reasons for this, but in this case the point is different - the area of the apartment is small, and the smell of cat excrement is quite pungent. This can cause problems with neighbors or homeowners. Therefore, it is preferable to choose animals that are already tray-trained.
Cat litter and kitten
If you think that cats are easy to train and their instincts themselves will push them in the right direction, you are mistaken. Our editor is the proud owner of two large mongrel cats, one of whom completely refuses to remember that a trash can is the wrong place for his litter box. And even if it is possible to convince him of this today, it is not a fact that tomorrow the situation with the surprise found in the trash bin will not repeat itself.
2. Cats shed . And this is also a problem. Are you ready for your entire apartment to be strewn with cat hair? It will get everywhere: on clothes, in food, on all surfaces. In a small space, especially during periods of seasonal molting, cat hair turns into a real punishment.
Grooming a long-haired white cat
Moreover, some cats periodically develop dandruff, to which you or your family members may be allergic. So, when choosing an animal, you need to remember about the upcoming “war” with its fur, and if this is a problem for you, it is better to choose smooth-haired breeds or sphinxes in general. On the other hand, with proper care, problems with the coat will practically not arise. In any case, it is worth paying attention to this issue.
3. Cat's temperament or character . In some cases, it can also present very unpleasant surprises. If you live in a relatively small apartment, you should choose a furry friend of a breed that has the following characteristics:
- lack of a pronounced instinct for one’s own territory;
- easy perception of loneliness;
- sociability;
- friendliness towards strangers;
- not too high activity.
The last thing is worth explaining - cats with high activity require a lot of space for their games. They physically need to spend their energy somewhere, so they rush around the apartment like mad, turning over various objects, damaging furniture, knocking you off your feet. Such animals need to be in the fresh air, so keeping them in an apartment will be problematic for you.
What do you need to prepare for a cat to appear in your apartment?
When choosing a pet for an apartment, you need to remember that the cat will live side by side with its owner for many years. It is necessary to choose a four-legged companion taking into account the characteristics of your character and lifestyle, so that living together with an animal is as comfortable as possible for both.
Be sure to purchase:
- toilet tray (with or without filler);
- bowls for food and clean water (not plastic);
- slicker brush (for long-haired breeds and animals with thick undercoat);
- a carrier for visits to the veterinary clinic and travel;
- wet or dry food.
Russian Blue breed
Photo Credit: selchuk_hoo Flickr via Compfight
The favorite of the Russian royal house, the Russian Blue cat is distinguished by its grace, elegance and intelligence. She has a long neck, thin, slender legs, a narrow muzzle with emerald green eyes and a delightful gray-blue coat. Photographers often photograph models paired with this cat.
The character of the cat is also delightful. Are you afraid that if you take a cat home, you will face the problem of marking the territory? Then Russian Blue is what you need. Males of this breed do not engage in such disgrace. In the spring, this breed will not cause trouble to its owners with demanding cries that they need a mate. Cats are not intrusive, not aggressive, very clean and get along well with children and other pets. They show affection only to members of their own family; they behave very shyly with strangers. Knows how to entertain himself in the absence of his owners. When seeing an upset owner, she tends to show sympathy.
Lifespan: 10-20 years.
Weight and size: height - 20-25 cm, length - about 60 cm, weight - from 3 to 7 kg.
Care: all cat care consists of periodic brushing and regular cleaning of the litter box. If you don’t clean the tray on time, you risk running into a protest in the form of eliminating natural needs in an inappropriate place. It should also be remembered that this breed may have a tendency to overeat and gain excess weight, so it is better to give up the idea of treating your pet with a tasty treat once again.
What should you pay attention to first when choosing a cat?
Experts agree that a calm, friendly character is optimal for cats living in an apartment. It is important to be able to “occupy yourself” with something non-destructive while the owner leaves the apartment. It is advised to choose breeds that are not characterized by increased energy - in a confined space it will manifest itself in the form of various pranks.
The cat demands to be played with
We have done our own research on this topic, so before we make specific recommendations on choosing the right breed, it is necessary to describe some common characteristics of the animals and possible problems associated with them. This is worth doing before bringing a cat into your home. In this way, you can be sure that the chosen cat will fit your lifestyle, and you will “find a common language.”
Agree, taking responsibility for a living being is a serious step and it is best to carefully prepare for it.
Criterias of choice
Advice: try not to put the cat’s appearance at the forefront, you have a responsible step ahead of you and living together with an animal that has character and skills... these are the characteristics that need to be taken into account first of all.
Statistically, there are almost twice as many cats living in apartments as dogs. There are two main reasons: cats tolerate loneliness better and do not need to be walked. The cat is more suitable as an ideal pet for an owner with a busy work schedule.
Probably all breeds are suitable for living in an apartment, except for the first generations of hybrids with wild cats . Such four-legged animals should be kept in a separate room (room), preferably with an enclosure. Naturally, there are breeds that are more adapted to living in an apartment than others, but considering this characteristic separately is not entirely correct. When choosing a breed, try to take into account the following nuances:
- Stress resistance – the ability to quickly adapt to living conditions, endure loneliness, noise, strangers, etc.
- Adequate level of physical activity - if you have a busy schedule, you shouldn't get a very active cat...or you need to get two active cats at once - it's up to you.
- How calm and friendly the representatives of the breed are towards people . If you are choosing a cat for a child, you need to pay special attention to this characteristic.
- Easier to care for – a long-haired cat is more troublesome to keep than a short-haired one, and this is obvious. However, the length of the coat is far from the main aspect of care; some cats need regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and monitoring the condition of the respiratory tract and skin.
So, the best cat breed for an apartment is an individual indicator and it depends only on your lifestyle. If you like to invite guests, a quiet cat will not suit you, and if there is a dog in the house, then a sissy cat will feel uncomfortable.
The best breeds for an apartment
Maine Coon
Cats are characterized by their rather large size, have heavy clawed paws, and have lynx-like tufts at the tips of their ears.
The general stern expression of the animal's muzzle gives the impression that the cat has a difficult character with a tendency toward unkindness and savagery. However, in reality, under such an impressive appearance lies a very flexible disposition and kind character, which makes the animals even more attractive. The character of the Maine Coon was formed over many years of breeding work. During the selection process, it was possible to consolidate both the external characteristics of the breed and its psychological characteristics. The behavior of an animal depends not only on the conditions in which it was raised and raised, but also largely on heredity, and therefore aggressive, withdrawn and nervous animals are excluded from the breeding process. It is often said about this breed that these are the most atypical representatives of cats, meaning mainly their behavioral characteristics. Cats are not reserved and not selfish, although they feel absolutely comfortable alone. They also walk on their own without much pleasure, as they prefer pleasant company. The breed is sociable and focused specifically on humans, although cats do not avoid other animals. Maine Coons get along well with children and become attached to them. One of the main distinctive features that clearly distinguishes these pets from other cats is their love of water. Animals love to swim. It often uses its front paws like a dog - raking the ground or leaves. They are not too prone to kitchen theft; they climb onto the dining table solely out of curiosity, in order to sit higher and have a greater view.
Advantages:
- Large beautiful breed with an easy-going character;
- Gets along well with small children and pets;
- Very soft wool;
- You can easily teach any tricks.
Flaws:
- Quite expensive;
- It may start chewing on wires.
Canadian Sphynx
A very kind animal, so docile that it can get along with anyone. The only difficulty in keeping it is the need to protect your pet from cold and drafts. Even in summer, the sphinx must wear special costumes.
Russian blue cat
These cats have amazing beauty - bright blue or green eyes and rich bluish-gray color of short fur. They are very intelligent and delicate in their behavior. Representatives of this breed feel great in an apartment and are not at all inclined to mischief or organize “races along the walls.”
The Russian Blue is an intelligent cat that thrives in an apartment.
Russian Blue cats get along great with other pets and children. But in relation to strangers, they are shy and avoid contact, preferring to hide somewhere. If you do not often invite guests, such cats will become wonderful friends and trouble-free roommates for you.
Selkirk rex
A very unusual pet, the history of the breed began in 1987. These rexes are distinguished by curly hair, even their antennae curl. Selkirks are very friendly and not capricious. But you shouldn’t dry their coat with a hairdryer - a loud sound is extremely stressful for the animal.
A funny cat with curls is a very unusual pet
Norwegian forest
Powerful semi-longhaired cat. The appearance is a mixture of wild and domestic cat. Restrained, calm, loves to hunt, rarely shows a feeling of fear. Despite its appearance, the cat is affectionate and friendly. She does not impose her company, but is devoted to her owner. Loves to explore new corners. When kept in an apartment, the pet can be walked on a harness along the street to satisfy its need to explore the unknown.
Pros:
- calm character;
- weasel;
- good health.
Minuses:
- genetic predisposition to liver cirrhosis;
- complexity of content.
Ragdoll
The name of the breed can be literally translated as “rag doll” - these cats limp funny if you try to pick them up and do not at all resist active “hugs” from humans. The character is quite phlegmatic, but at the same time cats of this breed are smart and strongly attached to their owner. They are also very child friendly and get along well with dogs. Caring for them is quite easy, despite the fluffiness of this breed.
Ragdolls are very large, fluffy and friendly cats.
Ragdoll cats sometimes grow very large - males can weigh up to 9 kg, so despite their calm nature, cohabiting with such an animal can be uncomfortable with a very small living space. But this breed is exclusively domestic - they are not adapted for life on the street due to their trusting and non-aggressive nature.
British cat
The breed is perfect for home keeping, largely due to its good health and calm nature.
The physiology and appearance of animals was formed in conditions of high humidity and a fairly cool climate, so pets have dense, dense and short vegetation, which can reliably protect against cold and moisture. These cats are excellent hunters, they are hardy, strong and unpretentious in food. The head is distinguished by a wide skull and a round shape, the cheeks are developed, with wide cheekbones. The nose is also quite straight, wide and short. The ears are small, slightly rounded, set wide and low. The eyes are round and located at a considerable distance from each other. The body is massive, it has a developed chest, and the muscles are highly developed. The limbs are short but powerful. The tail is thick, the weight of cats can reach about 14 kg, cats are much lighter - a maximum of 9 kg. Wool protects the animal from the cold largely due to the developed undercoat. It does not adhere directly to the skin and feels plush to the touch. Sometimes you can meet a long-haired British dog. A special recessive gene is responsible for this feature, so such kittens cannot appear in short-haired parents. Cats have an independent character and tolerate loneliness well. They usually don’t ask to be held, but they treat their owners with respect and love and rarely show their feelings. They won’t just approach strangers - they will first observe them from the sidelines. The British breed is not aggressive; they use their claws and teeth in the most exceptional cases, so they are absolutely not dangerous for children. Despite the fact that the British are distinguished by their strong natural health, they need special care - it is necessary to choose the right food, it is advisable to do this together with a veterinarian, and regular examination by a specialist is recommended. Coat care is also simple: the animal is brushed twice a week with a slicker brush, bathed a couple of times a year or as needed.
Advantages:
- A very calm and intelligent animal;
- Plush to the touch wool that does not require special care;
- High natural immunity;
- Treats household members with respect and does not harm animals.
Flaws:
- He sits in his arms only at his own request.
Turkish Angora
A snow-white beauty who is not afraid of water and is ready to endure hygiene procedures without any problems. He loves classical music very much, so he is ideal for families of musicians.
Manx
Representatives of this breed come in both long-haired and short-haired varieties. A characteristic feature of these cats is that in some cases they are tailless, although there are Manx cats with a full tail. But despite such anatomical features, cats of this breed are very playful and dexterous. They have small dimensions - the weight of males rarely exceeds 5 kg, females are even smaller.
Isle of Man tailless cat
For living in an apartment, it is preferable to choose short-haired representatives of this breed. Manx cats love to live indoors, so being constantly “within four walls” does not cause them any stress. They are wonderful companions - there is an opinion that nature compensated for the lack of a tail with a special charm.
Abyssinian breed
One of the oldest cat breeds that can be found on sale today.
Their majesty and grace are combined here with a very kind and affectionate character. The animal gets along well with other pets and does not mind playing with small children. An unusual and very beautiful color, distinguished by ticking - the characteristic iridescence of the coat. Cats are a little timid and afraid of sharp and loud sounds. Quite active animals often play around and thereby cause harm to themselves, for example, falling out of a window. Representatives of this breed love to sit at heights, climb shelves and walk through cabinets. They prefer the company of people and do not tolerate prolonged loneliness. It is easy to train a cat to use a litter box and a scratching post, so it will not damage the furniture at all. The rules established at home are respected and are easy to train. The animal is very clean, practically does not shed, and the attitude towards bathing is either neutral or positive. Health is very good, the pet is unpretentious to food and care. The cats are flexible and strong, with a medium body size. The muscles of the paws and back are highly developed, the paws are very long, thanks to them the cat can jump a considerable distance - about six times the length of their body. Males are somewhat larger than cats, but sexual demorphism is not as pronounced as in many other breeds. As a rule, body weight ranges from 3 to 4.5 kg. The cats have a chiseled silhouette, a harmonious physique, they move very gracefully, and in their manner of movement they resemble miniature cougars. The cat's eyes are quite large and have an almond-shaped cut. Their color can vary from amber to green. The cat's neck is long and very elegant. The body is moderately elongated and has harmonious proportions. The paws are strong, long and thin.
Advantages:
- Energetic and active animals;
- Developed intelligence, cunning prevails in character;
- Loyal and devoted pets;
- Affectionate animals;
- Do not require significant care.
Flaws:
- It is advisable to bring him into a large apartment, as he loves to run everywhere and explore everything.
Sacred Burma
A semi-long-haired breed of cat, resembling the Siamese in color. Very smart and intelligent, she quickly learns the rules of behavior in the house.
Very beautiful and noble, sacred Burma, will become the pride of its owner
Burma
The most loyal animal in a cat's body.
It’s not for nothing that they call her a dog in a cat’s body - she dotes on her owners and is ready to literally follow them on their heels. With all this, representatives of this breed are very graceful, which does not fit very well with their impressive mass. Today there are two versions of this breed - American and European - they differ from each other in appearance, but not in habits. The Burmese retains its vigorous activity and playfulness throughout its life. She will not give up chasing a thrown ball even in old age. These animals always subtly sense the mood of the owner, so they will never bother with excessive attention and importunity, or they will do everything possible to cheer up their loved one. This breed does not require special maintenance conditions, so it is suitable even for those people who have decided to have a cat for the first time in their lives. The Burmese gets along very easily with any pets, especially if they do not show excessive hostility towards them. The breed is an excellent option for families with small children. Animals are very lenient with children, so they take part in their games as much as possible. They have high intelligence, making them very easy to train. Although pets are characterized by excellent grace and elegance, they are quite heavy for their size - cats can weigh up to 5.5 kg, lighter cats - about 3.5-4 kg. The breed is short-haired, the American version is stockier than the European representatives. The head is wedge-shaped, the cheekbones are well defined, the chin protrudes forward in line with the nose. The ears are far from each other, slightly tilted forward. The eyes are set wide, large and expressive. The neck is quite long, thin and strong. The tail is not too long, straight.
Advantages:
- Flexible and active character;
- They love their owners very much and are devoted to them;
- Easy to teach various commands;
- Suitable for people who are going to have a cat at home for the first time;
- Good health and unpretentiousness to food and living conditions.
Flaws:
- A very heavy animal for its size.
American Shorthair
When deciding which cats are best to keep in an apartment, many people choose representatives of this breed. These are very good-natured and no less beautiful animals, reminiscent of the British in appearance. Marble color is the main decoration of pets.
Siamese
This breed is very easy to recognize due to its original appearance, contrasting coloring, and expressive turquoise eyes.
Although cats have a rather complex character, however, according to experts, such pets are among the most optimal in apartment conditions. Another distinctive feature is a fairly loud voice, distinguished by unusual intonations; the breed has a craving for verbal communication with its owners. Cats have a strong attachment to their owner and do not tolerate loneliness quite well. However, most representatives are too jealous of other household members and other pets kept in the house. Caring for Siamese cats is very simple: just follow basic recommendations, carefully monitor their diet, and also visit a veterinarian for a preventive examination. The health of pets is generally good, with the exception of several diseases to which this particular breed is prone, the average life expectancy of an animal is about 15 years. Some pets may experience slight squinting. The Siamese cat is slender, with a muscular body with elongated lines, its size and weight are small - a maximum of 6 kg, but such figures are extremely rare. The paws are elegantly shaped, long and thin, the hind legs are longer than the front ones. The tail is long and thin, tapering towards the tip.
Advantages:
- Quite attractive appearance;
- Has excellent health;
- Attached to the owner.
Flaws:
- The owner is very jealous of other household members and pets;
- A vindictive animal.
Persian
These are very beautiful animals with long thick hair. It is very important that such beauties should only be born if the owner has the opportunity to brush the pet regularly.
Living in an apartment with a cat: tips and tricks
Although we've just listed some cat breeds that do well in apartments, it's important to keep your expectations realistic. Cats are living creatures, so you will have to deal with some of the consequences of their life.
His feline majesty wants to play
By adopting a cat, you take responsibility for it, so you must be prepared to care for it. To avoid any reasons for negativity, you should keep an eye on several things:
- the cat litter box must be cleaned regularly, because otherwise the cat may go to an unintended place;
- if you have several cats, each of them should have their own litter box, since these animals are quite clean and picky;
- if the cat's behavior changes and the animal suddenly throws litter out of the tray or goes to the toilet in the middle of the room, it is worth finding out the reasons for such actions, one of which may be a health condition.
If you don’t want unnecessary hassle, avoid using carpeting in your home. Carpets are difficult to clean and the characteristic odor is not easy to remove. In addition, cats love to sharpen their claws on carpets. By the way, it is also worth taking care of the claw sharpener in advance and accustoming the cat to it with the help of positive motivation from childhood.
You will need a few more useful devices to make cohabitation with a cat comfortable for both of you.
Self-cleaning tray
Self-cleaning cat litter box
Such trays are not particularly popular, but they can significantly save your energy. Well, if you are away for a long time, and your pet is picky, such a tray will allow you to avoid unpleasant incidents associated with excrement that is not collected on time.
House-sharpener
There are many different configurations of these devices, but almost all of them allow your pet to play, sharpen his claws and relax. By using such a house, you create a place for the cat to play, where he can expend his energy. In addition, you protect upholstered furniture and wallpaper from cat claws.
Persian cat
Persians have beautiful long hair. They can be almost any color and have a flat face, which is the main distinguishing feature from most other cat breeds.
Like many purebred cats, Persians are susceptible to many diseases.
Most often they have various eye diseases and polycystic kidney disease.
This breed is also known as the Persian Longhair, Iranian and Shirazi, named after the city of Shiraz, which is located in Iran from where this breed was originally imported.
Which cat is better to have in an apartment according to Feng Shui?
According to ancient teachings, cats are the personification of the feminine principle, Yin energy. Animals play an extremely important role in the energy system of the home. These animals are able to attract, neutralize negativity, take on illnesses, heal, see evil spirits, and ghosts.
The best place to place a cat's sleeping place is considered to be the eastern zone of the house, but very often pets choose their own territory and confidently settle down. It is impossible to explain the choice of the animal. It is assumed that they choose a corner where there is least strong energy functioning. Cats love areas where the flow is disturbed; with their presence they balance the biofield.
Cats are protectors and amulets of the home. The phenomenal ability to capture energy flows makes these animals real healers. The cat chooses a weak spot on the owner’s body, lies on it, and sometimes massages it with its paws. After several therapy sessions, the patient feels better.
It is important to understand that a cat walks on its own and does not tolerate competition, so having several animals in the house at once is not recommended. In this case, the pets will be busy with their “business” and the owner will not be given due attention.