What kind of cat is best for a full-time student? Any advice?

Hi everyone! I’ve always wanted to get a cat, but my mom is allergic, so it wasn’t possible. I live in a small studio apartment (plenty of room for a cat, but not enough for a dog). I work 1 to 2 days a week from 5pm to 11pm, and I’m at uni for about 4 hours a day. Other than that, I’m home most of the time. My neighbors are my best friends, so the cat wouldn’t be alone, and if I ever work extra shifts, they can easily look after the cat.

Do you have any suggestions on what cat breed would suit me? Or is it a good idea to get one at all? I’m a first-time cat owner, so I’d love honest feedback.

Thanks for your help!

It’s not really about the breed, it’s more about the age. If you can find an older cat (3 years or more), especially one from a shelter or rescue, the staff there can help match you with a cat that fits your lifestyle.

@Addison
That’s a great point! While specific breeds are nice, they’re usually rarer and mostly for people who want to show their cats or have very specific needs. A ‘normal’ domestic cat, like a long-haired or short-haired one, would work just fine.

For a first-time cat owner, I recommend getting an adult cat instead of a kitten. Kittens require a lot of care, and it’s easier to find a grown-up cat whose personality matches your lifestyle.

Good luck, and welcome to the world of cats!

I don’t think people really know cat breeds like they do with dogs. Most cats are pretty similar. If you’re worried about their energy, maybe spend some time with a few at the shelter to see which one matches your vibe.

A regular domestic cat should work perfectly fine, especially since you’ll be home a lot to keep it company. I’m not sure about your budget, but just keep in mind that cat supplies can vary in price. As long as you’re responsible, there’s no reason not to have a little companion.

Breeds don’t matter as much with cats (compared to dogs). What really matters is whether you can support the cat financially, especially if you’re only working a few days a week. Not judging, but I’ve seen people get pets and then struggle with vet bills.

If you think you can handle it, try checking shelters for two cats that get along well.

@Kai
I think I should be fine financially! I’m on full student finance in the UK, so I mainly work to cover my food. But yeah, it’s something to keep in mind.

Noel said:
@Kai
I think I should be fine financially! I’m on full student finance in the UK, so I mainly work to cover my food. But yeah, it’s something to keep in mind.

Gotcha! That was just my main concern. I know people who’ve been living paycheck to paycheck and got a pet, thinking they’d be fine, but then something unexpected like a vet bill pops up and they struggle. It sounds like you’re in a better situation though. If you can, visit a shelter and see if you can find two cats that would get along well.

@Kai
Thanks for the advice! I plan to get the cat in summer, so I’ll have enough time to adjust to it and give it my full attention. Also, I receive disability allowance for my ADHD, so I have plenty of money for now. It’s something I’ll definitely think through, but I have enough time before making a decision.

Definitely go for an adult cat! A kitten in a small studio would probably drive you crazy. Plus, I’m guessing you don’t have room for two cats!

Corey said:
Definitely go for an adult cat! A kitten in a small studio would probably drive you crazy. Plus, I’m guessing you don’t have room for two cats!

I definitely don’t have space for two cats! I think getting an adult cat is my best bet.

Corey said:
Definitely go for an adult cat! A kitten in a small studio would probably drive you crazy. Plus, I’m guessing you don’t have room for two cats!

I’ve got a kitten in a two-bedroom apartment, and it’s driving me crazy lol.

It’s more about the cat’s personality than the breed. Talk to the staff at a shelter, and they can help match you with a cat that fits your situation.

Avoid breeds like Ragdolls or Scottish Folds, though, because they tend to have health problems.

Whether you get an adult cat or kitten is up to you, but an adult one would probably be less of a handful.

Go for a domestic short-haired cat! They’re common, and adopting from a shelter is a great option. Purebred cats can be really expensive and might come with health issues, so stick with a standard domestic cat.

There aren’t as many specific breeds like in dogs. Most house cats are just ‘domestic short or long hair,’ and the main difference is coloring and patterns. Some rarer breeds exist, but they’re more exotic.

If you’re looking for a cat to keep you sane, avoid the orange ones and black cats. They can be… a bit too crazy.