18 Best Pets for Apartment Living You Should Know About

Finding the perfect pet for apartment living can be tricky, especially when space is limited and noise levels matter. However, there are plenty of animals that adapt well to smaller spaces without compromising on companionship. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet or one that’s packed with personality, there’s an option for you. Here’s a list of the best pets to consider if you live in an apartment.

1. Cats

Cats are classic apartment pets for a reason. They’re independent, don’t need a lot of space, and can entertain themselves when you’re busy. With the right litter box setup, a cat can easily adapt to apartment life without the need for outdoor time. They’re also great snugglers and can be quiet, making them ideal for shared buildings. Plus, their natural curiosity and playful antics make for great company.

2. Small Dogs

Not all dogs are suited for apartments, but certain small breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Dachshunds can thrive in smaller spaces. These dogs are typically low-energy, meaning they don’t need hours of exercise like larger breeds. A quick walk or a play session indoors usually does the trick. They also tend to be quieter, which is a bonus in close quarters. Just be prepared for a bit of lap time and snuggling.

3. Fish

Fish are one of the best low-maintenance pets for apartment living. A well-maintained fish tank can add beauty to your space without taking up too much room. Fish are quiet and require minimal interaction, making them perfect for people with busy schedules. From goldfish to bettas, there’s a wide variety to choose from depending on how much care you’re willing to put in. Watching them swim around can be surprisingly calming after a long day.

4. Hamsters

Hamsters are small, cute, and can easily live in an apartment with the right cage setup. These nocturnal creatures don’t need a lot of attention during the day and love to burrow and run on their wheel at night. They’re pretty low-maintenance, only requiring a clean cage and some fresh food. Just make sure to provide plenty of toys and tunnels to keep them entertained. Since they live in cages, they don’t take up any floor space either.

5. Birds

Birds like parakeets or canaries can make great apartment pets if you’re looking for something different. They’re small, social, and can be trained to interact with their owners. Birds don’t require a lot of room and their cages can fit comfortably in most apartments. However, they can be noisy, so it’s important to consider if your neighbors will mind the occasional chirping. A bird’s cheerful songs can brighten up even the smallest of spaces.

6. Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are affectionate and social animals that thrive in small environments. They require a bit more care than a hamster but are just as easy to accommodate in an apartment. These little guys are also very vocal, often squeaking to show excitement when you’re around. They don’t need a lot of space but appreciate a larger cage where they can run and explore. Regular cage cleaning and some cuddle time are all they need.

7. Rabbits

Rabbits can be surprisingly good apartment pets, especially the smaller breeds like Mini Lops or Netherland Dwarfs. They’re quiet and can be litter trained just like a cat. Rabbits do need some space to hop around, but they’re usually content lounging in a cozy corner. With the right toys and interaction, they can be very affectionate and playful. Make sure to rabbit-proof any areas they roam in to prevent chewing on wires or furniture.

8. Turtles

Turtles are another great low-maintenance option for apartment living. They require a tank with water and a dry area to bask, but they don’t need a lot of space beyond that. Turtles are generally quiet and can live for many years with proper care. Their slow pace and unique appearance make them a fun pet to watch. However, turtles do require specific lighting and a clean tank to stay healthy.

9. Ferrets

Ferrets are highly playful and curious animals that can bring a lot of energy to an apartment. They need a good amount of interaction and exercise but can be very entertaining pets. Ferrets are small enough for apartment living, but they do need a cage when you’re not supervising them, as they tend to explore and get into trouble. Their mischievous nature makes them fun to watch, but they do require some training to avoid bad habits like biting or stealing small objects.

10. Gerbils

Gerbils are small rodents similar to hamsters but a bit more active and social. They’re also very low-maintenance, requiring just a small cage with bedding, food, and water. Gerbils love to dig and create tunnels, so providing them with plenty of bedding material keeps them happy. They are quick and curious, making them fun to observe. Unlike hamsters, gerbils are more active during the day, so they fit better with people who want a more interactive pet during daylight hours.

11. Snakes

For those who want something a little different, snakes can make great pets in an apartment. Many smaller snake species, such as corn snakes or ball pythons, are easy to care for and don’t require much space. They spend most of their time in a terrarium, which can fit into any small corner. Snakes are low-maintenance, needing only occasional feeding and tank cleaning. While they may not be the cuddliest pets, they are fascinating to observe and handle.

12. Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos are easy-going reptiles that are perfect for apartment dwellers. They require a small terrarium with specific lighting and heating, but their overall care is straightforward. These geckos are small, don’t make any noise, and are generally low-maintenance. They are also friendly and tolerate handling well, making them great pets for reptile beginners. Their beautiful patterns and colors are an added bonus.

13. Frogs

Frogs, particularly smaller species like the African Dwarf Frog, can be a fun and easy pet for apartment living. They need an aquatic setup, but their tanks don’t take up much room. Frogs are quiet and don’t need constant attention, making them ideal for busy individuals. Watching them swim and hop around their tank can be quite relaxing. Just be sure to maintain their water quality to keep them healthy.

14. Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are low-maintenance pets that can easily thrive in an apartment. They need a small tank with sand and some shells for them to grow into, but beyond that, their care is simple. Hermit crabs are quiet and don’t take up much space, making them perfect for smaller homes. Their quirky habit of switching shells as they grow makes them an interesting pet to observe. They also don’t require much daily interaction, making them ideal for busy people.

15. Chinchillas

Chinchillas are fluffy, playful, and fairly low-maintenance, making them good pets for apartments. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, so they won’t disturb your sleep. Chinchillas require a large cage and a dust bath to keep their fur clean, but other than that, their needs are simple. They don’t smell and are relatively quiet. Plus, their soft fur makes them perfect for cuddling when they’re in the mood.

16. Betta Fish

Betta fish are a popular choice for apartment dwellers because they’re beautiful and easy to care for. They don’t require a large tank, and their vivid colors add a touch of vibrancy to any room. Bettas are solitary fish, so they don’t need companions, which makes them easy to manage. With a little tank maintenance and regular feeding, they can thrive in a small space. They’re also relatively inexpensive to care for.

17. Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are unique pets that can adapt well to apartment life. They’re nocturnal, so they’ll mostly be active when you’re relaxing in the evening. Hedgehogs are quiet, need minimal space, and can be kept in a simple cage. While they may seem prickly, they can be friendly and curious with regular handling. Their quills don’t actually hurt much, and they make for an interesting and quiet pet.

18. Ant Farms

An ant farm is a fun and educational pet option that requires very little maintenance. You can watch as ants build tunnels and work together, all within a small contained space. They don’t make noise, don’t need much space, and won’t demand your attention like other pets. Ant farms are perfect for people who want something low-maintenance but still fascinating to observe. Just be sure to keep the farm sealed properly to avoid any escapees.