If you’re a frequent traveler with a soft spot for feline companionship, certain cat breeds are better suited to your lifestyle than others. Breeds like the Russian Blue, British Shorthair, and Ragdoll are known for their independent yet affectionate nature, making them perfect for people who are often on the go. These cats don’t demand constant attention and can handle alone time with grace—as long as their environment is safe and enriched. They adapt well to routines and can manage short absences with ease. Low-maintenance and emotionally balanced, these breeds won’t resent you for being away. Just be sure to return with cuddles—and maybe a treat or two!
British Shorthair: The Calm and Content Companion
The British Shorthair is the embodiment of chill. With their plush, teddy-bear looks and big, round eyes, these cats are as relaxed as a Sunday afternoon nap. They’re known for being undemanding and independent, perfectly content to lounge and watch the world go by while you’re away. British Shorthairs rarely develop separation anxiety and won’t destroy your home out of boredom. Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming—just a weekly brush keeps them looking sharp. If you want a cat that greets you with gentle affection when you return but doesn’t pine for you nonstop, this breed is a top pick.
Russian Blue: The Quiet Observer
Russian Blues are the introverts of the cat world. They adore their people, but they’re not clingy or attention-seeking. With their shimmering blue-gray coats and emerald eyes, they melt hearts while maintaining an air of mystery. Russian Blues are happy to entertain themselves, exploring nooks and crannies or quietly gazing out the window. They’re also one of the cleanest breeds, grooming themselves meticulously. If you travel frequently, a Russian Blue will probably spend your absence napping peacefully and plotting their next playful pounce. When you return, expect a gentle greeting and lots of soft purring.
Scottish Fold: The Adaptable Sweetheart
Scottish Folds are instantly recognizable by their adorable folded ears and round faces. More importantly, they’re famous for their calm, adaptable natures. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet countryside, Scottish Folds adjust quickly and rarely get stressed by changes in routine. They’re happy to nap in sunny spots or play with their favorite toys while you’re away. This breed usually enjoys the company of other pets, so if you have a cat-friendly household, your Scottish Fold won’t get lonely. Their affectionate but undemanding temperament makes them a great fit for anyone who can’t always be home.
American Shorthair: The Laid-Back Traveler’s Choice
American Shorthairs are the all-American classic—friendly, easygoing, and robust. They’re the type of cat that seems to roll with whatever life throws at them. If you have to leave home often, you won’t need to worry about them getting anxious or destructive. These cats enjoy alone time and can keep themselves entertained with simple toys or a window view. Their short coat is a breeze to care for, and their health is generally excellent, reducing worries about unexpected vet visits. For travelers who crave a reliable, low-fuss kitty, the American Shorthair is a solid choice.
Burmese: The Social Butterfly That Loves Company
Burmese cats are charming, playful, and famously people-oriented. Yet, they’re not overly demanding when you’re gone. Burmese thrive in pairs or with other pets, making them a fantastic option for travelers who can provide a companion cat. Their sociable nature means they’ll happily bond with pet sitters or family members, reducing loneliness. With their silky coats and expressive golden eyes, Burmese cats quickly win over hearts. They’re intelligent and easy to train, so interactive toys or puzzle feeders can keep them occupied while you’re away. Expect a warm, vocal welcome when you walk through the door.
Chartreux: The Quiet, Independent Thinker
The Chartreux is a French treasure, known for its woolly blue-gray coat and sweet, smiling expression. These cats are famously independent, thriving on routine but not thrown off by your comings and goings. Chartreux cats are quiet and rarely meow—perfect if you don’t want a noisy companion. They’re also adaptable, making friends with other pets or happily spending time alone. This breed’s affectionate side shines through when you’re home, but they’re perfectly able to entertain themselves with a favorite toy or a sunny spot by the window during your absence. Their low-maintenance coat is just the cherry on top.
Ragdoll: The Chill, Easygoing Friend
Ragdolls are famous for their relaxed, floppy nature. When picked up, they melt in your arms like a plush toy. While they adore their people, Ragdolls are surprisingly good at handling alone time, especially if they have comfy spots to lounge in or another cat for company. Their gentle temperament means they seldom get anxious or destructive when left alone for reasonable periods. With striking blue eyes and soft, semi-long fur, Ragdolls are both beautiful and low-maintenance. Their easygoing attitude makes them a fantastic choice for frequent travelers seeking a loving, but not overly needy, feline.
Exotic Shorthair: The Cuddly Couch Potato
Exotic Shorthairs are like the short-haired cousins of the Persian, carrying the same adorable, squishy faces without the high-maintenance coat. They’re calm, affectionate, and love lounging around—making them a wonderful match for busy owners. Exotic Shorthairs are content to nap, play with simple toys, or watch birds through the window while you’re away. Their mellow attitude and independent streak mean they won’t suffer if you need to travel for a few days. When you return, you’ll find a soft, purring ball of love waiting for a cuddle on the couch.
Japanese Bobtail: The Playful Entertainer
Japanese Bobtails are energetic, playful, and bursting with personality. Their unique, pom-pom tails and expressive faces make them stand out, but it’s their self-sufficient nature that earns them a spot on this list. These cats are highly intelligent and love puzzles, toys, and exploring. If you have to leave for a trip, a Japanese Bobtail will happily keep busy with their favorite activities. They thrive with a feline friend, so consider adopting a pair for even more fun. When you come home, expect enthusiastic greetings and plenty of playful antics.
Siberian: The Hardy and Independent Adventurer
Siberians are the rugged, all-weather cats of Russia, built to thrive in challenging environments. Their dense, triple-layered coat and muscular build give them a majestic, wild look, but don’t let that fool you—they’re affectionate and loyal. Siberians are independent thinkers, happy to explore, nap, or play on their own when you’re gone. They’re also known for their good health and low-maintenance grooming needs. For travelers who need a cat that can handle a little solitude and still greet them with love when they return, the Siberian is an excellent choice.
Norwegian Forest Cat: The Gentle Explorer
The Norwegian Forest Cat is all about resilience and adaptability. With their thick, water-resistant fur and athletic build, these cats are natural explorers, able to keep themselves entertained for hours. Norwegian Forest Cats do well in households with other pets, giving them company while you’re away. They’re affectionate but not overly dependent, content to nap in high places or watch the world from a windowsill. Their easygoing nature means they don’t stress easily, making them a comforting presence for frequent travelers who want a cat that can handle change.
Singapura: The Petite, Independent Dynamo
Singapura cats may be tiny, but their personalities are huge. These playful, energetic cats love to explore and interact with their environment. Their independent streak means they’re comfortable being alone for stretches of time, busying themselves with toys or inventing games. Singapuras are social and enjoy the company of other pets, so they won’t get lonely if you have a multi-cat home. Their short coat is easy to care for, and their health is generally robust. If you’re looking for a small but mighty companion who can handle your busy life, the Singapura fits the bill.
If you’re always on the go but still want a feline friend, these 12 cat breeds make it totally doable. Their independent yet loving personalities mean they won’t hold a grudge when you’re away for a bit. As long as they have food, toys, and a cozy perch, they’ll be just fine until you’re back. These cats strike the perfect balance between low-maintenance and loyal. So, even with a suitcase by the door, you can still come home to purrs and head bumps.
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
