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Indoor Cat Breeds

Any cat can live happily indoors if their needs are met, but some breeds are calmer and more adaptable than others. These tend to cope well with indoor life, and every one still needs play, climbing and company.

  1. Cartoon of a British Shorthair cat

    1. British Shorthair

    Calm, adaptable and happy to lounge.

    Medium to large · Usually 12 to 17 years

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

    2. Ragdoll

    Gentle, relaxed and happiest close to you.

    Large · Usually 12 to 15 years

    Read the Ragdoll guide →
  3. Cartoon of a Birman cat

    3. Birman

    Sociable and easy-going, a good indoor companion.

    Medium to large · Usually 12 to 16 years

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

    4. Russian Blue

    Quiet and loyal, if you keep a steady routine.

    Medium, elegant · Often 15 to 20 years

    Read the Russian Blue guide →
  5. Cartoon of a Chartreux cat

    5. Chartreux

    Quiet and good-natured.

    Medium to large · Often 12 to 15 years

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

    6. Burmese

    Sociable and playful, happy indoors with company.

    Medium · Often 12 to 16 years

    Read the Burmese guide →
  7. Cartoon of a Persian cat

    7. Persian

    Calm and quiet, with daily grooming.

    Medium · Usually 10 to 15 years

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

    8. Exotic Shorthair

    A quiet, plush lap cat.

    Medium · Often 12 to 15 years

    Read the Exotic Shorthair guide →
  9. Cartoon of a Ragamuffin cat

    9. Ragamuffin

    A big, soft, easygoing lap cat.

    Large · Often 12 to 16 years

    Read the Ragamuffin guide →
  10. Cartoon of a Abyssinian cat

    10. Abyssinian

    Active and clever, so it needs plenty of play and climbing indoors.

    Medium, slim · Usually 12 to 15 years

    Read the Abyssinian 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 indoor cat breed?

A calm, adaptable cat who is happy with company. Many Ragdolls, British Shorthairs and Birmans fit, but a rescue moggy can be just as good.

How do you keep an indoor cat happy?

Daily play, tall climbing, window perches, scratching posts and puzzle feeders, plus attention.

Do indoor cats need vaccinations?

Yes. Ask your vet which vaccinations your indoor cat needs.

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