What kind of cat is ideal for an apartment? Which cat is better to have in an apartment: calm and unpretentious breeds. Comfortable living for a cat in an apartment

Since ancient times, there has been no better neighbor for a person than a cat. She brings harmony to life and calms even with her very presence, she pleases and amuses, committing small pranks. The indoor cat is the most adapted animal. She easily gets used to her place, to the toilet and lives quite a long time compared to other pets.

Which cat breeds are better?

It is impossible to answer this question unambiguously. There are many factors influencing the choice. This behavior, color, character and much more. To decide which breed you should give preference to, you need to consider the features of the most popular ones.

• Outbred cats. These animals, which cannot boast of their pedigree, are in no way inferior, and sometimes even superior, in intelligence, charm and beauty to their titled relatives. They are, as a rule, more resistant to various diseases, do not show aggression, and are very affectionate and sociable. These are a wide variety of cats, differing from each other in color, coat length, and appearance. Such a friend can be found in any shelter for homeless animals or even on the street.
• Angora breed. Playful and very cheerful cats easily adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and get along with other animals. Long hair adds to the hassle of cleaning.
• British cat. For a home with small children, this is the best option. Animals patiently and unrequitedly allow themselves to be squeezed, they are very calm and confident. They have very weak immunity; you should be careful about their health. Grooming is not burdensome.
• Abyssinian cat. A very active and inquisitive person who demands to be treated with respect may even scratch. Therefore, this is not a very suitable option if there are children in the family. Short hair does not require special care.
• The Siamese cat breed is also one of those animals that should not be kept in a home with a small child. They are capricious and do not tolerate familiarity when they are pulled by their mustache or tail.
• Burmese cat. She is moderately active and inquisitive, has angelic patience, allowing children to do whatever they want with her. Absolutely not aggressive. Therefore, she is considered the best “nanny” among cats.
• Scottish lop-eared. Cats of this breed are friendly and do not allow themselves to bite or scratch. But you can’t hold them in your arms for a long time, and they are also very shy.
• Persian cats. Resembling little teddy bears, they bond very well with children. Thick coat requires regular brushing and special care.

There are many other breeds that are also worth considering as pets.

How to choose a kitten

When choosing a new tenant, you must take into account the lifestyle that the owners lead and the characteristics of the family. There are breeds of cats that cannot tolerate noise, turmoil, transportation in transport - all this causes them severe anxiety and panic. Therefore, you need to pay attention to what kind of character the kitten has - calm or mischievous, whether it tolerates a change of environment well, whether it is able to remain alone, etc.

Once upon a time there was a black cat

Black cats have always seemed like mystical creatures to people. Many myths, superstitions and legends have been created about them. In fact, these are very graceful, affectionate and playful animals that are not particularly different from cats of any other color.

A house cat is necessary not only to catch mice and rid the owners of their invasion. Possessing the strongest energy, it is able to influence people’s health, improve well-being, relieve pain, stress, normalize blood pressure, etc. And the black cat is especially distinguished by this. In a house where such an animal lives, the energy supply is much better. It is believed that a black cat brings prosperity and good luck to its owners.

Housewarming with a cat

Moving in ancient times, in addition to a change of place of residence, also meant the beginning of a new stage in life. And in order for it to be successful, it is necessary to receive the blessing of the gods. For this purpose, the cat was first launched into a new home, acting as a sacrifice for higher powers. There is another explanation for this custom. It is believed that animals perceive energy very well, so where the cat chooses a place, it is recommended to place a bed so that sleep is healthy and complete.

How to housetrain a cat

It will take some time for a cat to adapt to a new place. For some animals, a few days are enough, while for others it may take months. The cat should be placed in a secluded corner so that it is not disturbed by other pets. It is advisable to avoid noise, loud conversations, and do not force the cat to come out of its hiding place and pick it up.

The first signs that the animal has settled in and feels quite comfortable are the start of eating and using the litter tray. After this, you can start talking to her and even try playing with the ribbon in front of her nose. The main thing is not to grab the cat in your arms as soon as it comes out of its hiding place. Let him calmly walk around the room, exploring the territory. And only then you can give her the opportunity to explore the remaining possessions.

Several cats in the house

This situation, when there are many cats in the house, is quite acceptable, but only under one condition - each of them must have its own territory.

Otherwise, it may happen that when a new tenant appears, the old resident will begin to leave cat marks and, due to jealousy, will begin to move away from the owner. Enmity may arise between animals. And living several cats in a small room is a serious burden not only for them, but also for the owners. When two cats move into the house, you need to be on guard at first to prevent their aggressive behavior.

It is also problematic to keep animals of different ages and temperaments. If you add a young, playful and mischievous cat to an old or fearful cat, who will pester her with his games, her life will become simply unbearable. Vigilant owner supervision is simply necessary in order to prevent the tyranny of one animal in relation to another.

When a cat and a male cat live together at home, it is easy to predict how it might end. Therefore, if there is no interest in breeding kittens, care should be taken to avoid these undesirable consequences.

Like a cat and a dog

Before bringing a new pet into your home, you should pay attention to whether your cat or dog shows any signs of aggressiveness towards other animals. It may happen that hostility towards the new tenant will threaten his health and life. Animals are very sensitive and can immediately sense that someone else has taken their place in the house. A cat and a dog will need the same amount of affection and love from the owner so as not to feel deprived. Only then can their hatred and aggression towards each other be avoided.

But it also happens that some cats get along much better with dogs than with their relatives. They may well become inseparable friends who play and even sleep together.

When a cat and a dog live together in a house, you should also take care of the feeding process, which is noticeably different for these animals. A dog has the habit of eating everything that is put in its bowl, but a cat can go to its cup several times a day to have a little lunch. Therefore, if her dishes are in a place accessible to the dog, then it is unlikely that anything will remain there. The cat's bowl should be placed somewhere high so that the dog cannot reach it.

Proper nutrition for cats

The pet will be active, cheerful and energetic if it is provided with adequate nutrition. Today we offer a huge selection of different ready-made cat foods. It is important to purchase one that matches the age and energy expenditure of the animal. Under no circumstances should you mix food from different brands.

To walk or not to walk

To decide whether to let your cat out for a walk, you need to decide for yourself which relationship is preferable between you. And only then make a choice. If a cat lives in a house located on a busy street filled with moving vehicles, then for safety reasons it is not recommended to let the animal go for walks. And if the house is located outside the city or there is a large yard, then it is quite possible to send your pet for a walk.

A cat living at home becomes completely domestic. This life suits her quite well, especially if you open the window so that you can breathe fresh air, lying on the windowsill, and admire the birds.

A cat that is let out for a walk will never become completely domestic. She is forced to preserve her wild instincts when she is on the street, and may well bring them into the house. They manifest themselves in the fact that cats and kittens begin to mark their territory in the house. Moreover, this is typical even for castrated animals. In addition, there are many dangers on the street, including infectious diseases that a cat can be exposed to. For a house where children live, keeping an animal without free range is a better option.

Do not forget about preventive vaccinations, which must be done annually.

You (or maybe your child?) are slowly but inevitably maturing. dream of having a kitten. Are you ready to shelter a “nobleman” without a family coat of arms, as long as he becomes your true friend? Or maybe you want purebred handsome man to receive prizes at cat shows? Playful and active or calm? Long-haired or short-haired? This article on the site will help you!

Thoroughbred or street?

This dilemma is sometimes solved spontaneously - you liked the kitten, took it, and... problems began! Therefore, before make a choice in favor of a “mongrel” or choosing a purebred cat, you need to carefully weigh the possible pros and cons of both options!

The site “Beautiful and Successful” provides the main arguments that need to be taken into account.

Outbred kitten

By her own purebredness does not pose any special problems.

Yes, of course, we can’t talk about participating in exhibitions, but an ordinary gray Vaska can make a wonderful friend - smart, charming, insanely cute!

The advantage of outbred or half-breed cats is: good heredity.

Oddly enough, it is precisely those cats whose ancestors were not the result of breeders’ fantasies that have a greater chance of a long life and fewer health problems (with good care, of course!), since they are the result of natural selection!

However, the problem is different - where can I get a healthy one? albeit a mongrel kitten?

Perfect option - with people I know(mother cat owners).

If you are ready to take a kitten into your own good hands through an advertisement, for a symbolic penny at the bird market, or simply pick it up under a fence - be ready treat all kinds of ailments, which managed to attach themselves to the baby, including ringworm!

Also, kittens (even with good heredity) are greatly affected by a “difficult childhood” - malnutrition, past illnesses: this may result in some kind of difficult-to-treat “chronic”, early dental problems, etc. But if you are ready for possible difficulties, then I won’t try to dissuade you - from under-the-fence messes you often get wonderful cats!

Purebred kitten

If you want to opt for a purebred kitten, then the advantages are as follows: the kitten is more likely healthy and clean, he was looked after normally, and you can predict how the fluffy ball will grow up by looking at his mom and dad.

Kittens purchased from feline clubs or from reputable breeders are relied upon pedigree documents. If there are any, we can talk about participating in exhibitions and selling future offspring for good money.

Disadvantages - cats of certain breeds have specific health problems: for example, exotics and Persians have frequent colds, “black tears” in their eyes, hairless Don Sphynxes do not tolerate cold well... Pedigree cats sometimes have reduced immunity, shorter life expectancy...

I don’t want to intimidate you - we are not talking about 100% purebred cats, but about general statistics compared to “noble cats”!

It is quite possible that you will not encounter this! All because selective breeds were bred for keeping in apartments, near people - such a cat is unlikely to survive on the street. But at home, with proper care, your furry pet can live for many years in perfect health!

To overpay or not to overpay?

This question is asked by many future owners who have decided to choose a purebred cat - why is it so big? price range for kittens the same breed? Why are some quite nice and clearly not “fence-friendly” purrs given into good hands, while others, exactly the same, are asked for 15-20 thousand rubles?

The answer depends on several factors:

• Cattery reputation selling a kitten. This is the same as why a gray T-shirt from Dior costs 20 times more than a similar one from the Vietnamese market - the company’s image speaks volumes! The nursery provides pedigree documents for the kitten, which provide a pass into the world of “big cat breeding.” Particularly high prices are for kittens of champion parents, winners of exhibitions - the so-called show class kittens. But if you just dream of a cute kitten, then you probably shouldn’t overpay for a “brand.”
• Compliance with breed standards. For you, perhaps, a cute spot on the back or close, surprised eyes only adds charm to the kitten, but for specialists this is... defect, deviation from the breed standard. Such a cat will never win an exhibition, so the price for it can be several times lower than that of its “correct” brothers and sisters.
• Age. The optimal age for selling a kitten is 2-3 months. 4-5 month old kittens are already considered “grown up”, the owners try to give them a home as quickly as possible, and the price drops.
• Health status. Sometimes a kitten is sick with something that is not visible at first glance, and the owners try at all costs to “kick” it away before the disease progresses. It is sometimes difficult even for a specialist to identify such a pitfall!

But there are often cases when adopt a healthy cat the chosen breed can be bought for ridiculous money - according to an advertisement, at the poultry market and in other “frivolous” places: once upon a time there was a cat, kittens were born, and the owners are dreaming of how to find a home for them as quickly as possible!

If you are not applying for medals and regalia, then why not?

Which cat breed should you choose?

Cat in a city apartment

You can choose a cat of any breed for a city apartment, but classic “couch” breeds are considered:

Persian. Long, thick, soft fur, characteristic flat muzzle, bulging eyes, small ears, squat gait. The colors are varied - from white and apricot to black and tortoiseshell. “Peaches” are very calm, quiet, peaceful animals. Require daily thorough combing, otherwise the wool will get tangled!

"Exotic". The shape of the body and muzzle of exotics is similar to Persians, but their fur is not so long (although thick and soft!). Various colors - “Siamese” (dark muzzle, tail and paws, light body), “tortoiseshell” (brown spots), beige, etc. Choosing a cat of this breed is worth it for those who want to get all the advantages of a Persian, but at the same time not have to suffer from daily brushing; besides, now this The breed has become fashionable!

Don Sphynx. A hairless cat with a graceful body, large ears, blue or green eyes. You can have a Sphinx even for allergy sufferers, This is a very good-natured, but at the same time active and playful animal!

Cat in a rural house

Life in the private sector requires a cat to have sufficient endurance, good health, and, in addition, mouse catching skills! Cat breeds that you can safely choose for your home:

Russian blue. Graceful silhouette, slanting blue or green eyes, short smooth coat. The reason to choose a cat of this breed is that the Russian Blue is excellent at catching both mice and rats, besides, she is smart and has excellent senses. owner's mood prone to “talkativeness”!

Siberian. A squat, but not devoid of grace, body, a straight nose, slightly slanted eyes. The color is gray-brown with stripes, the coat is thick, there are many hard shiny “guard” hairs - this fur structure allows the Siberian cat to tolerate cold well. A good mousetrap, very kind, strongly attached to its owners. The breed is old and very common, so you can buy a real “Siberian” both in the nursery and from ordinary owners.

Siamese. Characteristic blue eyes, graceful profile, large ears. Color: beige body, black or chocolate “mask” on the face, dark legs and tail, the tip of which is usually slightly curved upward. "Siamese" can catch mice well, however, contrary to stereotypes, they are not aggressive - they just playful until old age!

Kitten for a child

If a kitten appears in your family at the urgent request of the child, then you need to choose a cat breed that will to endure all children's pranks and games!

Good “mustachioed nannies” can be:

Ragdoll. The name itself translates as "Ragdoll", which perfectly characterizes the behavior and temperament of this cat! The Ragdoll is a rather large, fluffy animal of a brownish or gray color, sometimes with light spots. It has wide paws and a stocky body. The Ragdoll breed is worth choosing if you are afraid that the cat will be aggressive with the child.

Maine Coon. Maine Coon is a large animal whose weight can reach 8 kg! The body is long, with wide strong paws, the eyes are slightly slanted with dark eyeliner, the fur is quite long. A distinctive feature is that at the height of the hunting mood, the Maine Coon can growl like a dog! However, in reality he is not aggressive, very friendly talkative and affectionate! Feel free to choose a cat of this breed for your family!

British Shorthair. Stocky body with small ears and round yellow or green eyes. The short, dense coat is smoky gray or brownish gray in color, sometimes with stripes or a tabby pattern. "British" can also weigh a lot and reach large sizes. Very peaceful and calm, they do not show the slightest aggression even towards guests! A breed close to the British - Scottish lop-eared– a very fashionable “style” of British cats these days: the “fold” cats have ears that are actually curved towards the head, otherwise there are few differences in the appearance and temperament of the cats.

However, it may happen that, after reading tons of information on the topic “Which cat breed to choose?”, you go to the bird market / nursery / according to an advertisement, see the unforgettable eyes of a kitten of a completely “inappropriate” breed and understand that he is yours.

And you will scratch him 3 times a day, wipe away his “tears”, remove fleas, look for professional food for him!

Because it’s akin to love for a person – yours, and that’s it, without any rational explanations!

And maybe this “love at first sight” is the most correct way choose a cat breed!

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Kittens. Ideally, a kitten will remain with its mother and the other kittens from its litter for the first three to four months of its life. The people who care for him treat him consistently and lovingly, and he is fully familiar with home life, including but not limited to such items as the monster in the closet (vacuum cleaner), storm in the drawer (dishwasher). machine) and an extremely mobile and food-dropping creature without fur (your baby).

When you come to see the kittens, take a look around. The house should be clean both in appearance and smell. This is how a shelter should be if you are heading there.

If possible, check out the mother cat, as her genetic qualities and personality traits will have a huge impact on your new friend.

And now the most interesting stage - meeting the kittens themselves.

At first, just calmly watch them, notice the kitten that comes up to you to examine you and greet you. Kittens that feel a natural attraction to people become the best. Young kittens may not be as interested in people as older ones. Bring some kind of toy for them, and then you will see which of them is the most active and energetic. If kittens are already properly accustomed to people, they will be happy when you pick them up and will quickly calm down in your arms. If they become frightened and petrified with fear when you pick them up, it’s best not to pick any of the litter. After all, there are many other kittens in the world.

Even if a shy kitten huddled in a corner touches your heart, it is better to let it remain in its corner. A shy kitten will usually grow into a shy adult cat. It is unlikely that you will enjoy feeding and cleaning the litter box for a cat that you will rarely see, so you should not take such a kitten. If all the kittens in this litter are wary, do not adopt any of them.

Always remember that you are making a commitment for almost two decades. Therefore, there is no need to take the first kitten you come across, but rather choose one that will make your dreams come true. Every year there are literally millions of kittens looking for homes. The perfect friend is waiting for you somewhere, so be patient!

Don't pick up a kitten that runs away, hisses, or cowers in a corner. You should also avoid adopting a kitten that scratches or bites when you handle it. Instead, choose a friend from the many wonderful kittens who seek your company and enjoy being held in your arms. If the kitten purrs when you pick him up, this is a very good sign.

Choose a healthy kitten. These kittens are very easy to distinguish. They are active, their fur is shiny, their eyes are clear and there is no nasal discharge. They are thin, not bony or pot-bellied. It is extremely important to choose the right moment when you look at the kitten, because a sleepy kitten can be mistaken for a lethargic one. Little kittens play a lot and sleep a lot, like most other young creatures.

Adult cats. Adult cats should be selected using the same rules. Before you go to see a cat, sit down and imagine how your cat should behave. Should he be active and constantly play pranks? Or should he behave with dignity and look at you with an understanding look? Should he love people or be aloof? Get a clear idea of ​​the qualities of an animal that are desirable for you, and then it will be easier for you to choose an animal in accordance with these qualities. If you find it difficult to imagine exactly what you want, think about the cats that have brought you joy throughout your life. What qualities did these cats have?

Now you are ready. It is easier to deal with older cats because, to a certain extent, what you see is what you get, with the exception of females in heat, which do not fit this rule. A cat in heat or pregnancy is extremely friendly and loving. However, this does not mean that it will remain the same after removal of the ovaries (sterilization). You're going to sterilize her, aren't you? True, this also does not mean that it will certainly change.

Choose a cat that behaves exactly the way you expect it to behave. your cat. Such a cat is not always easy to recognize, especially in a shelter environment, since there the cat may be scared or confused. However, this is a good general rule. If you actually managed to find a cat that remained friendly, playful and calm even in such an environment, then you can be sure that she really is like that. These qualities may even develop even stronger in her when she finds herself at home in a calm environment.

How to choose a cat? How to choose a breed?

This decision must be serious! Therefore, if you are wondering, you should pay attention to several aspects at once. The first of them is to decide why you are buying an animal. If you are just getting a pet, then you don’t have to think too much about which cat to choose - just find an animal that you simply fall in love with at first sight. If your goal is exhibitions, medals and breeding kittens, then all you need is purebred cat, and , it's up to you. The first category of kittens can be found from friends, in animal shelters, and also in markets, while the second category can be found from professional breeders and in relevant clubs.

Which cat breed should you choose?

Each cat breed has its own characteristics, however, they all have one thing in common - they are not cheap. Moreover, if your goal is breeding work in the future, the kitten must be simply impeccable, which means the price for it will most likely increase even more. As for how to choose a cat breed, it all depends on your lifestyle, because different breeds have different personalities. So, if you can afford to pay more attention to your pet (usually this is typical for housewives and retirees), then breeds that love active communication with the owner are suitable for you - Abyssinian, Siamese, Burmese and Persian.

Long-haired cats are better suited for people who spend a lot of time at home, because such animals require careful care, because they need constant combing. Besides, longhaired cats– not the best choice for those who suffer from allergies; short-haired animals or animals are more suitable for them sphinxes.

For a family with a small child, a breed that can easily tolerate endless games and cuddling is suitable - British, Scottish or Abyssinian, and here Persian cats will most often flee from children. By the way, it is believed that short-haired breeds are more sociable than long-haired ones and make contact easier.

For lonely people, a cat that is very devoted to its owner, but can also endure long absences, is more suitable - British Shorthair or Russian Blue cat. Both breeds do not suffer at all from forced loneliness, but when the owner comes home, they run to him as fast as they can.

If you want to get impressive sized cat(and there are those too), you can buy a Maine Coon animal. This biggest domestic cats of all. In addition, they are very calm and friendly. You can always preview a photo of a Maine Coon and be impressed on the websites of special nurseries that breed the breed.

Cat or cat?

When choosing a pet, you should also think about who to choose - a cat or a female cat. It largely depends on your preferences, but there are some secrets. Thus, it is believed that cats are more attached to their owners than cats, and in addition, their important advantage is that they do not give birth to kittens! Cats are good for those who are going to breed kittens, and at the same time, unlike cats, they are not inclined to mark their territory, which can be the main argument in their favor.

How to choose the right kitten?

However, no matter who you choose, there is a mandatory set of secrets regarding who. First of all you should buy a kitten at the age of 2-2.5 months. Kittens that are too small usually grow up very weak, because they do not have time to receive the necessary nutrients from their mother, and besides, the cat simply does not have time to raise them.

Adult cats usually already have formed characters and habits, so they may not get along with you at all. Also make sure that the chosen kitten is active, playful and affectionate - if the animal behaves withdrawn, this may indicate not only its ill health, but also a melancholic character, which may not coincide with yours at all. Although you immediately need to prepare for the fact that no matter what cat settles in your home, you will always have to take into account its habits, because these are very independent animals that rarely make concessions to their owners, even if they love them very much. // vsookoshkax.ru, catgallery.ru

Professional felinologists are confident that it is a stretch to call any cat calm, since this characteristic may depend both on the character of a particular individual and on the environment. For example, caring and calm owners will often have pets that are not fussy and friendly. Nevertheless, we can name a number of breeds that are considered the most calm and affectionate and are well suited for an apartment. They usually have a patient character, try not to bother their owners, are not aggressive towards children and get along easily with other animals. So which breeds best meet these criteria?

These cats are often considered ideal for keeping in an apartment, since they have a peaceful, calm character with a certain amount of phlegm, which becomes noticeable from an early age. The British do not like to bully, are friendly to all family members and do not require special care due to their short hair. The latter has a special structure, so this breed is often compared to a plush toy, and the variety of colors allows everyone to choose the ideal pet for themselves.

Prices for show-class British Shorthair kittens start from 14,000 rubles.

Translated from English, the name means “rag doll,” which well reflects the character of these animals: when you pick them up, they look like “purring rags.” Ragdolls are calm cats with increased patience and affection towards family members who do not like to be alone. They are distinguished by a good appetite without a tendency to obesity and ease of care. But you need to be extremely careful with these cats: they do not know how to group themselves when falling, so ragdolls cannot be thrown to the floor even from a height of human height. And when living in an apartment, you should especially avoid open windows, even for residents of the first floors.

To become the owner of a ragdoll kitten from trusted breeders, you need to pay between 15-45 thousand rubles.

Shorthair exotics

This breed, obtained by crossing American Shorthair and Persian cats, is distinguished by its calm and friendly character. Exotics are always devoted to their owner and are ready to obey him. Their huge advantage: the ability to calmly endure all the “molestations” of small children. In addition, exotics are distinguished by good health and unpretentiousness in caring for their coat: it is enough to comb it periodically.

For club exotic kittens, prices start from 15,000 rubles.

Cats of this breed are ideal for keeping in an apartment, especially for owners who work a lot and return home late at night. They do not need to be constantly cuddled and stroked, but at the same time they are ready to follow their owner everywhere, participate in active games and sleep in the same bed. But with strangers, representatives of the Russian Blue breed show increased caution. Russian Blues have an elegant, sophisticated appearance that does not require special care.

Prices for Russian Blue kittens start from 4,000 rubles, and in professional nurseries – from 23,000 rubles.

Thanks to its unusual appearance with tufted ears, the popularity of this breed has only been gaining momentum in recent years. Despite their impressive size, these pets have a balanced, calm character and easily fit into any family. They are ready to tolerate any children's antics, so they will be a friend to both the child and all family members.

Maine Coons are highly intelligent and very sociable, which is why they are often called cat dogs. A kind of disadvantage can be considered their large size, due to which they require more food (the number of bowel movements increases accordingly) and space for comfortable living.

You can buy a Maine Coon with a pedigree for a price starting from 15,000 rubles.

These fluffy blue-eyed pets have a moderately playful character: on the one hand, they are ready to take part in active games, on the other hand, they will not require attention if the owner cannot devote time to them.

Despite the fluffiness, the fur does not have a thick undercoat, so cats do not require special care: it is enough to brush them periodically so as not to collect hair throughout the apartment. Burmese have good health and good immunity, which is a significant advantage of this calm breed.

The price of Burmese kittens from a nursery with a full set of documents ranges from 40-60 thousand rubles, while you can buy a pet from second-hand breeders for 12,000 rubles.

Although Sphynxes have a specific appearance that not everyone likes, they are one of the most tame breeds. They do not like loneliness and literally need the warmth of human hands, which is due to the characteristics of their skin. In addition to its calm disposition, an important advantage of the breed is hypoallergenicity.

Canadian Sphynxes have a kind, peaceful character and will willingly communicate with anyone who is willing to pay attention to them, even if they are unfamiliar guests. The especially delicate skin of sphinxes requires regular care and hygiene, so owners should be careful about the conditions of keeping and feeding these unusual cats.

You can purchase a “club” Sphynx kitten for a price starting from 20,000 rubles.

These cats are considered one of the most affectionate breeds and become attached to their owner with almost dog-like devotion. Despite the name “Siberian”, they are popular for keeping in apartments not only in Russia, but also in the world.

Siberian cats are large breeds; the weight of individual individuals can reach 15-18 kg. Of their main disadvantages, only labor-intensive care should be noted. It is caused by long and thick hair, which requires regular brushing to avoid tangles.

You can buy a show-class Siberian kitten at a price starting from 20,000 rubles, and from private individuals you can find offers starting from 3,000 rubles.

Why do people get cats? There are many reasons, one of them is loneliness. Many residents of densely populated cities often feel an urgent need for the company of someone close and understanding - animal companions come to the rescue in this case. And if many people are not allowed to have a dog because of their daily routine or living conditions, then with cats in this case everything is much simpler - they are much more “autonomous”, require much less attention and feel great even in a small space. In short, if you decide to get a cat and want to find out which breed is best suited for living in an apartment, this article will help you decide.

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.

Potential difficulties of living with a cat

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 may 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 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 down. Such animals need to be in the fresh air, so keeping them in an apartment will be problematic for you.

What breeds are best for apartment living?

Knowing now what you need to pay attention to when choosing a pet, you can consider specific breeds of cats and the reasons why you would be comfortable living with them in an ordinary small apartment. Let's hope that you like one of the cats presented below.

Maine Coons are a very friendly cat breed. They will give you their attention and warmth regardless of the circumstances. They have a very friendly character, which allows them to easily get along with other pets and find a “common language” with all family members. In addition, they are very smart, so there should be no problems with the litter box or mischief.

Maine Coon kitten is bored

However, Maine Coons grow very large compared to other domestic cats. They weigh on average 6–7 kg, reach 40 cm in height and more than a meter in length if measured from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail. So they require a lot of space - this is important to consider. In addition, they require careful care. But if this doesn’t bother you, the Maine Coon will become your best, most loyal and gentle friend.

Siamese cats are considered the most sociable among other breeds, so if your neighbors cannot stand unnecessary noise, cat songs are unlikely to please them. But if your apartment has thick enough walls, this will not be a problem. At the same time, Siamese cats are very smart, they are easy to train and even perform various tricks, which makes them a very interesting company.

Beautiful blue-eyed Siamese cat lies on a pillow

In ancient times, Siamese cats guarded some temples in Tibet, but modern representatives of this breed are very affectionate. They are great companions for single people. Adult cats rarely weigh more than 4 kg, they are very graceful and not very active. Most Siamese cats have short hair, so in this sense there should not be any problems.

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.

Their soft, plush fur and very friendly nature make this breed one of the best candidates for a vacant spot on your lap. They are very similar in appearance to Persian cats, but do not require as much grooming due to their short hair.

Exot (or exo) - a short-haired cat with a canine character

Exotics have an amazingly calm character for cats. They become very attached to a person and need his constant presence. Some of their character traits are more typical of dogs - they are very loyal and loving. However, exotics are not averse to playing, and some of them are excellent mousecatchers. But, in general, they are very soft, affectionate and calm. The only difficulty in keeping them is that they will miss you in moments of loneliness.

Sphinx

Despite their strange appearance, these “hairless” cats are very friendly even to strangers. The characteristics of this breed make Sphynxes ideal house cats - they do not shed, do not cause allergies, have a gentle character and literally need to be constantly indoors so that ultraviolet radiation does not damage their delicate skin.

Sphynx is a “hairless” gentle non-shedding hypoallergenic cat

These cats, by the way, are very pleasant to the touch - their skin is soft and warm. They avoid unnecessary activity, which also makes them excellent apartment dwellers. The weight of an adult Sphynx can reach 5 kilograms. These cats are very loyal to their owner, but also do not shy away from the attention of other family members or guests in your home.

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.

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.

Munchkin

Small adorable cats with a more or less standard body length and legs 2-3 times shorter than usual. Munchkins weigh 3–4 kg. Their dimensions make them great for apartment living. In addition, these cats are very friendly and always cause affection thanks to their short legs. They are found with both long and short hair.

Munchkin is a breed of the cutest cats with short legs

Despite their toy appearance, munchkins are very active and require attention, so it is better for single people or families with children to have such cats. They are very unpretentious in care, but without receiving enough human attention, these cute cats become mopey and sick.

One of the oldest breeds, very popular all over the world. Persians have very thick and long hair that requires careful grooming. Adult cats grow quite large and can weigh 5–6 kg. Their character is very peaceful and calm.

Persians are one of the most ancient cat breeds

They treat people friendly, but do not feel an urgent need for human attention. As a rule, they choose one owner and are constantly somewhere near him or his things.

A very popular breed today. These cats are playful and friendly. Scots can grow quite large - up to 6 kg. They have short, very soft fur. They are quite easy to care for; they are very intelligent and affectionate.

The ideal pet for your home is the Scottish Fold cat.

An excellent candidate for apartment living. Especially for single people, since cats of this breed are very playful and love to be given attention. They become very attached to their owner, but at the same time easily tolerate loneliness.

An old, unpretentious and very hardy cat breed that can adapt well to apartment life. The British are friendly and a great choice for people who love to pet their cat and sit on their lap.

British Shorthairs are man's faithful friends

An interesting character trait is independence. For all their friendliness, the British tolerate loneliness and lack of attention to their person very well. They also don’t like to climb high places, so things on the closet and shelves will definitely remain intact. This cat is ideal if you live in a small apartment and are away often.

Javanese

This is a very independent cat breed, whose representatives will have no problems with entertainment, so when you leave for work, you don’t have to worry about your favorite animal being bored. These are very curious and active animals, and they are also quite large, so they will definitely make a little mess. At the same time, these cats are very smart, so with the right educational approach, you can indicate to your pet all the boundaries that he should not cross.

Javanese is a cute, lop-eared, big, smart, curious and very active cat.

Javanese do not require special care. They are mostly short-haired and practically do not get sick. These cats are well suited for lonely people who are often away from home. They will provide calm and undemanding company, lifting your spirits with their funny appearance and behavior.

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.

Automatic feeder

An ideal device for those who leave their cat alone for a long time

Also an indispensable thing if you live alone and are often absent. Cats quickly get accustomed to such a device. You just need to check the availability of food and water in the store and set the timer to the optimal time intervals for replenishing the cat's bowl.

When choosing a cat to live in an apartment, do not forget that the breed is important, but you also need to take into account the cat’s personality. No two cats are alike, even if they come from the same breed. So, for example, many people have representatives of the “European” breed or simply ordinary yard cats living in their homes - and they are smart, calm and affectionate. On the other hand, purebred cats suggest their future behavior and habits. In any case, it is worth soberly assessing your living conditions, your routine and preferences, and then making an informed choice. A choice that will brighten up your future life.