For frequent travelers, finding the right pet can be challenging, but cats offer an excellent balance of companionship and independence. While some cats crave constant attention, others are perfectly content spending time alone, making them ideal for owners who are often away. The key is choosing a breed that is self-sufficient, adaptable, and able to entertain itself without becoming stressed. These cats tend to be low-maintenance, requiring minimal grooming, and can thrive with automatic feeders, interactive toys, and occasional check-ins.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 cat breeds best suited for people who travel frequently. These breeds have a reputation for being independent, calm, and capable of handling solitude better than others. Some prefer lounging around, while others enjoy entertaining themselves with toys and climbing structures. Whether you’re away for a long weekend or on frequent business trips, these cats can maintain a happy and healthy life with the right care.
However, even independent cats need some level of care and stimulation to prevent boredom and loneliness. Investing in an automatic feeder, a self-cleaning litter box, and interactive playthings can help ensure their well-being. Additionally, pairing your cat with a companion pet or arranging occasional visits from a trusted pet sitter can provide extra comfort. By choosing the right breed and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—traveling freely while still having a loving feline companion at home.
1. Russian Blue
Elegant and mysterious, the Russian Blue is a reserved breed that adapts well to solitude. Because of their independent yet affectionate personality, they make an excellent choice for travelers. These cats form strong bonds with their owners but are not overly clingy, which allows them to handle alone time well. Their short, dense coats are easy to maintain, requiring little grooming. In addition, they are intelligent and can entertain themselves with puzzle toys or even watch birds through a window. Unlike more vocal breeds, Russian Blues are generally quiet, making them suitable for apartment living. With proper care and enrichment, they thrive even when left alone for extended periods.
2. Scottish Fold
Known for their adorable folded ears and sweet expressions, Scottish Folds are a breed that balances affection with independence. Though they enjoy the presence of their owners, they do not demand constant attention and can comfortably entertain themselves. Their laid-back nature makes them highly adaptable to different schedules, making them ideal for those who travel. Unlike high-energy cats, they are happy to nap or watch the world go by from a favorite perch. Short-haired varieties require very little grooming, further adding to their low-maintenance appeal. When given engaging toys or scratching posts, they remain mentally stimulated even in their owner’s absence. A Scottish Fold will always welcome their owner home with quiet affection and soft purring.
3. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a breed known for its calm and undemanding personality. Unlike more attention-seeking cats, they are perfectly content spending time alone, making them an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Their plush, dense coat requires only occasional brushing, making maintenance simple. These cats enjoy lounging in sunny spots, observing their surroundings rather than seeking constant interaction. While they do appreciate affection, they are not prone to anxiety when left alone. Providing a comfortable environment with cozy bedding and engaging toys helps keep them entertained. After time apart, they greet their owners warmly but without overwhelming neediness.
4. Persian
A Persian cat’s luxurious coat and relaxed temperament make them one of the best breeds for people with unpredictable schedules. More inclined to lounging than engaging in vigorous play, they do not require constant interaction to stay content. Their thick fur demands regular brushing, but aside from that, they are easy to care for. When left alone, they spend most of their time sleeping or quietly observing their surroundings. Unlike highly active breeds, Persians do not become destructive or restless when their owner is away. A cozy space with soft bedding and minimal disruptions keeps them at ease. They express love through quiet companionship rather than overly clingy behavior.
5. Exotic Shorthair
Despite their plush and cuddly appearance, Exotic Shorthairs are remarkably independent and low-maintenance. Sharing many personality traits with Persians, they are affectionate but not needy, making them a great choice for travelers. Their short, dense fur requires significantly less grooming than their long-haired relatives, reducing upkeep. Content with lounging in a peaceful environment, they do not become overly stressed when left alone. A few well-placed scratching posts and a selection of soft toys are usually enough to keep them entertained. Exotic Shorthairs appreciate a predictable routine but do not demand rigid schedules. When their owner returns, they respond with soft purrs and gentle affection.
6. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a breed known for its adaptability and resilience, making it an excellent companion for frequent travelers. Rather than being overly attached, they are content with their own company and easily adjust to varying routines. Their short coats require minimal grooming, allowing for easy maintenance even with a busy lifestyle. Unlike high-energy breeds, they do not become anxious or destructive when left alone. Providing access to window perches and a few interactive toys helps keep them engaged. This breed is well-suited for people looking for a pet that is affectionate yet independent. When reunited with their owner, they enjoy companionship but do not demand it excessively.
7. Chartreux
With their deep blue-gray coats and captivating golden eyes, Chartreux cats carry a calm and thoughtful presence. Unlike more vocal breeds, they tend to be quiet and reserved, making them a great fit for someone with a busy schedule. Their intelligence enables them to engage in solo play, solving puzzle feeders or watching birds outside a window. Though they form strong bonds with their owners, they are not overly dependent on constant interaction. A well-structured home environment with comfortable resting spots keeps them happy. Grooming is straightforward, as their plush coats require only occasional brushing. Their gentle personality makes them an easy and reliable companion for travelers.
8. Maine Coon
While they enjoy human interaction, they are perfectly capable of entertaining themselves when left alone. Their intelligence allows them to engage with puzzle toys and climbing structures, ensuring they remain mentally stimulated. Unlike some breeds that experience anxiety in solitude, they handle time apart with ease. Regular brushing is recommended to maintain their semi-long fur, but aside from that, they are low-maintenance. When their owner returns, they are affectionate without being overwhelming. Maine Coons are excellent companions for those who want a social yet adaptable cat.
9. Ragdoll
Despite their affectionate and floppy nature, Ragdolls are surprisingly independent. Their relaxed demeanor means they do not suffer from separation anxiety, making them a great choice for someone who is frequently away. They prefer lounging in soft spaces and do not require excessive physical activity. Grooming is easy, as their coats are semi-long but do not tangle easily. Having access to interactive toys or a scratching post helps keep them entertained while their owner is out. They appreciate affection when given but do not constantly demand it. Ragdolls greet their owners warmly but do not exhibit overwhelming attachment behaviors.
10. Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is an independent and self-sufficient breed, making them well-suited for frequent travelers. Unlike some cats that constantly seek attention, they are comfortable spending time alone exploring their surroundings. Their thick, water-resistant coats require regular grooming but are otherwise easy to maintain. A home with high climbing spots and engaging toys keeps them stimulated even in solitude. Their natural confidence allows them to handle time apart with ease. When their owner returns, they display affection in a calm and dignified manner. This breed thrives in an environment that offers space to explore and rest.
11. Burmese
Active and playful, the Burmese cat enjoys companionship but does not require it constantly. Their sleek coats are easy to care for, making them a great low-maintenance choice. If provided with stimulating toys, they remain engaged and entertained while alone. Many Burmese cats benefit from having another feline companion, reducing any loneliness they might experience. Their intelligence allows them to solve puzzles and interact with their environment independently. Unlike some breeds, they adapt well to changing schedules and occasional absences. When their owner returns, they greet them with enthusiasm and warmth.
12. Siamese
Known for their social and vocal nature, Siamese cats still manage alone time well when properly enriched. Their high intelligence allows them to entertain themselves with various toys and activities. Though they bond deeply with their owners, they do not become anxious if they have a stable routine. They often thrive best with another pet to keep them company. With short, sleek coats, they require little to no grooming. When left alone, they benefit from interactive feeders and climbing structures. Their love for their owner is evident upon their return, with affectionate greetings and playful antics.
13. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are highly active and curious cats that do not easily get bored. Unlike some lap cats, they prefer exploring and climbing, which helps them stay entertained when alone. Their short coats require almost no grooming, making them incredibly easy to care for. Independent yet engaging, they enjoy interactive toys that challenge their intelligence. Providing a cat tree or window perch allows them to observe their surroundings. They adapt well to an owner’s busy schedule as long as they have stimulating activities. When reunited with their owner, they express their affection through play rather than neediness.