Just because you have a small apartment with a cat does not mean you have to give up your feline friend’s joy. Quite the contrary, certain savvy apartment cat ideas can quite easily make your small house a cat paradise that will keep your buddy interested, active, and content.
Knowing What Your Cat Needs in a Compact Space
It is useful to have a sense of what cats require prior to coming up with specific apartment cat ideas for small spaces. Cats are a territorial species with drives for climbing, scratching, stalking, and hiding.
They would have acres to range from, trees to climb upon, and various places to survey their territory from different heights if they were still out in the wild.
In an apartment, we have to recreate those experiences in our limited square space. The good news is this: cats don’t need gigantic spaces so much as they need stimulating spaces that allow them to express their natural behavior.
Vertical Space: Your Small Apartment’s Secret Weapon
One of the best cat apartment ideas is to head up. Cats like natural levels as they give them protection and a raised vantage point in which to view their domain. When floor space is limited, walls and heights are your next best friends.
Cat Shelves and Wall-Mounted Perches
Wall shelves designed especially for cats can provide pathways through your walls, and your feline companion has highways in the sky. Your shelves can be placed in steps or wacky patterns that will cause your cat to jump and play.
DIY Option: One of my favorite apartment cat ideas DIY projects was creating custom cat shelves using:
- Sturdy floating shelves from a hardware store
- Non-slip material (like carpet remnants or shelf liner)
- Brackets that can support your cat’s weight plus some extra
I staggered these shelves in an ascending pattern to create a cat stairway to a cozy perch near the ceiling. My cat spend hours lounging on these elevated spaces, watching the world below with that smug cat satisfaction we all know and love.
Cat Trees and Climbing Structures
A nice cat tree is perhaps the most versatile cat furniture. Modern designs can be very stylish and don’t have to clash with your décor. Look for tall, stable models with multiple platforms and ideally some built-in scratching surfaces. You can also explore this DIY cat tree guide for several options.
For extremely small spaces, consider:
- Corner cat trees that maximize typically unused space
- Cat trees with smaller footprints but greater height
- Wall-mounted cat tree systems that combine with shelf pathways
Pro Tip: Position cat trees near windows when possible. This combines the joy of climbing with the entertainment of bird and people watching, creating a natural cat entertainment center.
Window Access: A Small Space Game-Changer
Windows are incredibly valuable real estate in cat apartment ideas for small spaces. They provide mental stimulation through changing scenery, interesting sounds, and the warmth of sunlight.
Window Perches and Seats
Window perches that attach via suction cups or brackets require zero floor space while giving your cat a front-row seat to the outside world. Some models can support multiple cats, though in my experience, they rarely share willingly!
DIY Option: Create a custom window seat by securing a small shelf beneath a window and adding a comfortable cushion. You could also add a cute DIY cat hammock.
Bird Feeders for Cat TV
Mount a bird feeder outside your window (if your building allows it) to create natural “cat television.” The movement of birds and wildlife provides hours of mental stimulation for indoor cats. Just make sure your windows are secure with sturdy screens to prevent any escape attempts during moments of excitement!
Hiding Spaces: Essential for Apartment Cats
Cats need safe retreats where they can hide and decompress. In small apartments, creating these spaces requires creativity but is absolutely essential for your cat’s emotional wellbeing.
Furniture with Dual Purpose
Look for furniture that serves both human and cat needs:
- Ottoman storage benches with entrances cut into the sides
- Side tables with cat beds underneath
- Bookshelves with designated cat cubbies
These cat apartment ideas for small spaces maximize functionality while giving your cat cozy hideaways.
DIY Hiding Spots
Some of my most successful apartment cat ideas DIY projects have been creating hiding spots from everyday items:
- Converting a cardboard box with a soft blanket inside into a cute little cat house
- Repurposing an old side table by adding a cat-sized entrance and cushion
- Creating a “cat tent” by draping a blanket over a coffee table corner
My cats rotate between these spots depending on their mood, the time of day, and some mysterious cat algorithm I’ll never fully understand.
Scratching Solutions That Save Your Furniture
Scratching is a non-negotiable cat behavior—they need to do it for claw health, muscle stretching, and territorial marking. Without appropriate outlets, your furniture will become the target.
Space-Efficient Scratching Posts
In small apartments, multi-functional scratching solutions are key:
- Vertical scratchers that mount to walls
- Scratching posts integrated into cat trees
- Corner scratching posts that tuck neatly into unused spaces
- Scratching boards that slide under furniture when not in use
DIY Scratching Solutions: One successful solution I created was a sisal-wrapped scratching post mounted on a wall at my cat’s stretching height. It takes up virtually no space while giving her a perfect spot to maintain her claws. Explore more budget-friendly diy cat scratchers here.
Material Variety
Cats have individual preferences for scratching materials. Some prefer sisal rope, others like cardboard, and some prefer carpeted surfaces. Provide options in different orientations (horizontal and vertical) to see what your cat prefers, then focus on those materials for future purchases.
Play Areas and Toys for Indoor Enrichment
Cat enrichment is crucial for their well-being. In particular, play is essential for apartment cats without access to outdoor territory to stalk. Interactive play mimics hunting behavior and provides exercise, mental stimulation, and quality time with you
Creating Play Zones
Designate certain areas for play, even in small apartments:
- A dedicated drawer filled with toys that you can rotate
- A small basket with current favorites
- A corner with more active toys like tunnels that can be folded away when not in use
Interactive Toys for Mental Stimulation
Some of the best apartment cat ideas involve toys that keep your cat engaged even when you’re busy:
- Puzzle feeders that dispense treats
- Battery-operated toys that move unpredictably
- Toys that hang from doorknobs or attach to walls
- Ball tracks that encourage batting and chasing
DIY Enrichment Toys: Your cat enjoys a homemade puzzle feeder made from a shoebox with strategically cut holes. You put treats inside that they must figure out how to retrieve, providing entertainment for them and giving you some peaceful work time. Explore more DIY cat toys here.
Litter Box Solutions for Small Apartments
Finally, the elephant (or rather, the litter box) in the room must be discussed. When space is at a premium, cat litter management must be a deliberate consideration in order to maintain human and feline harmony.
Hidden Litter Box Ideas
Some creative cat litter box ideas hidden in plain sight include:
- Litter boxes disguised as planters or decorative furniture
- Cabinets or side tables modified to house litter boxes
- Under-sink cabinets with cat doors installed
- Closet spaces with pet doors for cat access
Space-Efficient Litter Solutions
For extremely small apartments:
- Corner-shaped litter boxes that maximize typically unused space
- Top-entry litter boxes that contain scatter and can be placed in more visible areas
- Self-cleaning options that require less daily maintenance
DIY Litter Box Furniture: You can transform an old cabinet into a litter box enclosure with a cat-sized entrance and pet door. It catches scattered litter with a mat inside while the top provides extra storage or display space, making it functional and practical.
Creating Cat-Safe Outdoor Experiences
Even apartment cats can enjoy elements of the outdoors with some creative apartment cat ideas for small spaces.
Balcony Catios
If you have a balcony, convert it into a secure “balcony catio“—a screened-in enclosure that allows your cat to experience fresh air and outdoor sights and sounds without risk.
DIY Balcony Catio: Using PVC pipes and pet-safe netting, you can create a simple enclosure that prevents your cat from jumping or falling off. Add perches of different heights, some cat-friendly plants, and comfortable lounging spots for a purrfect outdoor cat retreat.
Harness Training
Another option is to harness train your cat for supervised outdoor walks. This takes patience but can be tremendously rewarding for both of you:
- Start with a properly fitted harness designed specifically for cats
- Let your cat get comfortable wearing it indoors first
- Attach the leash and practice indoor walks
- Gradually transition to quiet outdoor areas
My formerly apartment-bound cat now eagerly waits by the door when she sees her harness, ready for her neighborhood “patrol.”
Learn how to make a cat harness together with other DIY cat stuff on a budget.
Cat-Friendly Plants for Air Quality and Enrichment
Plants add life to small apartments and assist in cleaning the air, but many common houseplants are poisonous to cats. Fortunately, there are sufficient cat-friendly options that can enrich your environment:
- Cat grass (wheat, oat, or barley grass)
- Spider plants
- Boston ferns
- Areca palms
- Catnip and cat mint (obvious favorites!)
I’ve created a small “cat garden” in a sunny corner with a rotation of cat-safe plants. Some are for looking, some are for occasional nibbling, and they all bring a bit of nature into our small space.
You can also spoil your feline friend the easy way—with delicious homemade catnip treats!
Smart Storage Solutions for Cat Supplies
Managing cat supplies in a small apartment requires thoughtful organization. Look for cat apartment ideas that incorporate storage:
- Decorative bins that match your décor for toy storage
- Wall-mounted shelves for treats and smaller items
- Under-bed storage containers for bulk food and litter
- Multi-purpose furniture with hidden storage compartments
DIY Storage Solutions: I hung a hanging shoe organizer on the back of my closet door to store cat toys, brushes, treats, and medication. All of the pockets are labeled, so it is convenient to grab what I need without them taking up valuable counter space.
Addressing Common Apartment Cat Challenges
Living in close quarters with a cat presents some unique challenges. Here are solutions to common issues:
Managing Hair and Dander
- Invest in a quality pet vacuum designed for small spaces
- Use washable slipcovers on furniture
- Establish a regular grooming routine with appropriate tools for your cat’s coat type
- Consider air purifiers specifically designed to capture pet dander
Preventing Nighttime Activity
If your cat’s 3 AM zoomies are affecting your sleep:
- Schedule interactive play sessions before bedtime to tire them out
- Create feeding puzzles that keep them busy during prime activity hours
- Provide a comfortable sleeping spot in your bedroom so they can be near you
- Consider automatic toys that can engage them if they wake up while you’re sleeping
Managing Multiple Cats in Small Spaces
If you have more than one cat in your apartment:
- Ensure each cat has their own resources (feeding stations, litter boxes, sleeping areas)
- Create multiple levels and pathways so cats can navigate around each other
- Provide separate hiding spots where each cat can retreat when needed
- Use vertical space to create separate territories
Budget-Friendly Apartment Cat Ideas
Creating a cat-friendly apartment doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some economical apartment cat ideas DIY projects:
Repurposed Furniture
- Convert an old bookshelf into a cat climbing structure
- Transform a wooden ladder into a cat tree with platforms
- Use wall-mounted IKEA shelving to create cat highways
- Convert unused suitcases into DIY cozy cat beds
Cardboard Creations
Cats famously love cardboard, making it perfect for inexpensive DIY projects:
- Connected cardboard boxes creating tunnels and hideaways
- Cardboard scratchers made from corrugated cardboard strips
- Cardboard perches attached to windows using strong command hooks
- Puzzle toys made from toilet paper rolls and small boxes
Respecting Your Neighbors in Apartment Living
Living in an apartment community means considering neighbors when implementing cat apartment ideas:
Noise Reduction
- Place felt pads under furniture that cats jump on to reduce impact noise
- Add carpet or rugs in areas where your cat is most active
- Schedule interactive play sessions during reasonable hours
- Consider puzzle feeders that keep cats mentally engaged without noisy activities
Odor Management
- Clean litter boxes daily (or more often if needed)
- Consider activated charcoal filters near litter areas
- Use enzymatic cleaners for any accidents
- Maintain good overall ventilation in your apartment
Monitoring Your Cat’s Adjustment to Apartment Life
Cats may need time to adjust to new environments or changes to their living space.
- Regularly using new cat furniture or features
- Normal eating and elimination habits
- Playful behavior and relaxed body language
- Maintaining normal sleep patterns
Signs of Stress to Address
- Hiding more than usual
- Changes in appetite or litter box habits
- Excessive grooming or other repetitive behaviors
- Increased vocalization or aggression
If you notice signs of stress, gradually introduce changes and provide extra reassurance through play and attention.
Conclusion: Small Space, Big Happiness
It is completely feasible to create a fulfilling cat room space in a small apartment through proper planning and ingenuity. By following your cat’s natural requirements and fulfilling them with innovative cat apartment ideas, you can keep your cat content despite the small space.
Remember, the most important single factor in your cat’s happiness is not square footage—but the quality of the environment you share and the bond you create.
With engaging activities, comfortable resting spots, appropriate scratching surfaces, and regular interactive play, your apartment cat can be just as happy as any cat with a great big mansion.
Some cat breeds adapt more easily to apartment life than others. If you’re thinking about getting a cat or just curious, don’t miss my post on the 10 best cat breeds for apartments.
