Before you consider getting any pets for an apartment, carefully read your lease and consult your landlord. Many apartments do not allow pets, or have restrictions on pets. If you are allowed to have a pet, verify which animals are permitted and which are not. In general, small, quiet animals are good apartment pets.
Fish
Fish are probably the best apartment pets because they do not take up space, they are relatively low-maintenance, they are cheap, and they are quiet. Your neighbors and your landlord will never know you even have pets! The most common fish that are kept as pets are goldfish and betta fish. You may keep several goldfish in the same fish tank, but you must always keep betta fish separated from all other fish—even from their own species! Betta fish are beautiful but fierce, and will kill any fish that is near it.
Rodents
Hamsters, mice, rats, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas, ferrets, and rabbits are apartment-friendly pets. They are small and easy to take care of. Just be careful to not let it out of its cage or out of the apartment. Some of them, like rabbits, can be trained to use a litter box, which is useful for cleanup. Rabbits need space for exercise and play time, so make sure they can hop around.
Amphibians and Reptiles
While you may scare your neighbors and guests, amphibians and reptiles are cool apartment pets as long as they stay in their tank. Frogs, geckos, lizards, and snakes are silent and fascinating to watch. If you are bold and daring, these are the pets for you. Make sure to keep a weight on top of their tank, as some of them can escape.
Cats
If you are looking to cuddle your pet and not keep it caged, cats are great pets for an apartment. Although they can be more expensive than the aforementioned animals, cats are fun pets. Cats are also more hands-on than other pets, so they require attention and play time, as well as exercise.
Birds
Birds can be good pets, but they can also be loud. Some birds chirp and squawk loudly, which might annoy some of your neighbors.
Dogs
Dogs usually need space to run around or else they get bored and chew up your apartment. Also keep in mind that many apartment buildings have restrictions on the breed and weight of your dog. “Aggressive” breeds like German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans are frequently prohibited from apartments. Some apartments even require that you dog weigh less than 20 pounds.
Properly Care For Your Pets
Make sure you have a reliable veterinarian to take care of all of your critters. TalkLocal can help you find quality vets in your area. Just tell us what you need and your availability, and we will connect you with up to three veterinarians for free!
