Like people, each cat has its unique personality, nonetheless, some breeds are generally more content to live the life of a house cat than others. Today, our North Providence vets highlight 6 breeds that can make ideal indoor companions.
How To Choose a Cat to Suit Your Lifestyle
Choosing the best breed of cat for your lifestyle can be overwhelming. While some breeds make great farm cats, others have just the right combination of personality traits to be ideal house cats.
The best breed for a house cat for your home will depend upon the personality traits and physical attributes you're looking for in a feline companion. Cats are as unique as their humans; while some are playful attention seekers, others are placid snoozers. Here are some breeds that are generally content to live a life indoors.
Ragdoll
A good choice for apartment dwellers seeking a feline friend, Ragdoll cats are large, long-bodied, and strikingly beautiful, with long, silky coats (which also have a high tendency to shed).
Personality-wise, they are loving, sweet, and always up for cuddles. They often greet their people when they arrive home and seem to pick up tricks easily with positive reinforcement.
British Shorthair
This powerful, medium-to-large-sized breed is known for being round and thick. Originally bred to keep rodents from invading their masters’ barn and house, they play well by themselves and are a good choice for single people provided they get enough exercise and interaction from their owner.
Note that it’s important to brush your British Shorthair daily, as they tend to grow thick, dense coats in the winter, which shed with seasonal changes.
Scottish Fold
Named for their small folded ears, Scottish Folds are known for being active mousers who are playful, expressive, and sensitive companions. One of the first things you’ll notice is bound to be their striking, orange-yellow colored eyes.
These lovely cats crave attention, companionship (even that of another cat), and time around people so are perhaps not the best choice if you’re out of the house for long periods. Bonus: they are very kid-friendly.
Burmese
These acrobatic, golden-eyed felines are outgoing athletes who will show off their athletic skills, provide hours of cuddles, and keep up their end of a conversation in equal measure. They shed less than some other breeds and are easy to groom with only weekly brushing requirements.
Although Burmese cats make great pets for many cat lovers if a chatty cat is not your idea of ideal pet you may want to look for a quieter breed.
Devon Rex
This loyal, relaxed and fun-loving breed is known as the pixie of the cat world - mischievous felines with large eyes, high-set cheekbones, slender bodies, and long legs. They are a natural best friend and playmate if you’ve got young ones at home.
Kittens at heart, this breed is known to be intelligent and active. That said, Devon Rex house cats need plenty of stimulation such as time with pet parents learning new tricks, or cat puzzle toys that offer treats as a reward.
Himalayan
Also known as “Himmies”, these calm, gentle cats boast large, deep blue eyes and long, full, dense coats.
You’ll often see a Himalayan exhibit kitten-like bursts of energy - their antics can have them snoozing in a sliver of sunlight, then suddenly up and running through the living room, on to their next adventure. This breed can be a great companion house cat, provided that you are attentive to their nutritional needs and give them enough exercise and interaction.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.