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Best Cat Breeds for Flats

Many cats do well in flats if they have enough to do. These breeds tend to be calm and adaptable, but every indoor cat needs play, climbing, and somewhere to hide.

  1. Cartoon of a British Shorthair cat

    1. British Shorthair

    Calm and adaptable, though prone to putting on weight.

    Medium to large · Usually 12 to 17 years

    Read the British Shorthair guide →
  2. Cartoon of a Ragdoll cat

    2. Ragdoll

    Gentle and happy to lounge.

    Large · Usually 12 to 15 years

    Read the Ragdoll guide →
  3. Cartoon of a Russian Blue cat

    3. Russian Blue

    Quiet and loyal, if you keep a routine.

    Medium, elegant · Often 15 to 20 years

    Read the Russian Blue guide →
  4. Cartoon of a Birman cat

    4. Birman

    Gentle and sociable.

    Medium to large · Usually 12 to 16 years

    Read the Birman guide →
  5. Cartoon of a Persian cat

    5. Persian

    Quiet and calm, with a lot of grooming.

    Medium · Usually 10 to 15 years

    Read the Persian guide →
  6. Cartoon of a Exotic Shorthair cat

    6. Exotic Shorthair

    A quiet, plush lap cat.

    Medium · Often 12 to 15 years

    Read the Exotic Shorthair guide →
  7. Cartoon of a Chartreux cat

    7. Chartreux

    Quiet and good-natured.

    Medium to large · Often 12 to 15 years

    Read the Chartreux guide →
  8. Cartoon of a Burmese cat

    8. Burmese

    Sociable and playful, happy indoors with company.

    Medium · Often 12 to 16 years

    Read the Burmese guide →

Breed is only part of the story: every cat is an individual, and most cats in the UK are moggies. Meet the cat before you decide, and think about rescue cats too. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.

Questions people ask

What is the best cat for a flat?

A calm, adaptable cat who is happy indoors. A rescue moggy can be just as good.

How do I keep an indoor cat happy?

Daily play, a tall cat tree, puzzle feeders, window perches and attention.