14 Low-Maintenance Pets That Thrive in Apartments
Not every pet needs a backyard or hours of daily exercise to live a happy, healthy life. In fact, some of the most rewarding animal companions are also the easiest to care for—especially if you live in a small apartment. Whether you're busy, working from home, or simply new to pet parenting, these low-maintenance pets for apartments are quiet, space-efficient, and full of personality.
From independent cats to low-odor reptiles, this list covers 14 pets that thrive in compact spaces without creating noise complaints or demanding constant attention. We’ve included the pros, care tips, and what makes each of them ideal for renters or city dwellers who want companionship without a full-time commitment.
1. Betta Fish
Betta fish are a beautiful, low-effort pet perfect for tight spaces. They require no aeration system, tolerate variable water conditions, and can thrive alone in a small tank. With regular water changes and a heater, they're easy to maintain—even for beginners.
A 3–5 gallon tank with a lid, soft lighting, and minimal décor is all you need. They don’t need company (in fact, they fight other males), and their gentle presence makes them ideal for quiet apartments.
2. Leopard Geckos
These gentle reptiles are a favorite among apartment dwellers. They don’t require UV lighting, stay small, and are almost completely silent. Leopard geckos only need feeding a few times per week and enjoy simple tank setups with a hide, heat mat, and shallow dish.
They tolerate gentle handling and rarely get stressed by human interaction. With minimal odor and a low-profile enclosure, they’re a top-tier pet for quiet living.
3. Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs are friendly, social, and relatively low-maintenance once their enclosure is properly set up. They don’t need daily baths or intense exercise routines—just hay, pellets, fresh veggies, and a clean habitat.
They're also more docile and less prone to biting than some other rodents. A pair of guinea pigs can live comfortably in a 7.5 square foot cage, and their gentle wheeking noises won’t disturb neighbors through apartment walls.
4. Cats
Cats are the classic apartment pet for a reason. They’re independent, don’t need walks, and can entertain themselves while you’re at work. As long as their litter box is clean and they have enrichment (like windows, scratching posts, and toys), they’ll thrive in a small space.
Short-haired and indoor breeds like British Shorthairs or Ragdolls tend to be especially apartment-friendly. Just remember to keep a scratching post or pad to protect your furniture and provide vertical space if possible.
5. Hamsters
Tiny, tidy, and solitary, hamsters are one of the lowest-maintenance pets you can have. They don’t need companionship, are happy in a small habitat, and only require feeding once per day along with weekly cage cleaning.
Hamsters are most active at night, so if you’re a light sleeper, place their cage away from your bedroom. They’re perfect for kids or first-time pet owners living in small spaces. Just be sure to avoid wire floors, which can harm their feet.
6. Budgies (Parakeets)
Budgies are compact, intelligent birds that can live comfortably in apartment spaces when given the right setup. They’re low-odor, relatively quiet compared to larger parrots, and enjoy both solo and paired living.
Provide a wide cage with toys, swings, and climbing opportunities. While they do chirp, their sounds are soft and unlikely to disturb neighbors—especially with curtains or acoustic padding near the cage.
7. Turtles
While they require some setup in the beginning, turtles are surprisingly easy to maintain long-term. They don’t make noise, rarely smell if their tank is cleaned properly, and they’re not needy or attention-seeking.
Choose a species like the red-eared slider or musk turtle and provide a UVB light, basking area, and water filter. Feeding is straightforward, and once the habitat is established, care becomes second nature.
8. Rabbits
Rabbits are affectionate and quiet, making them an excellent apartment pet. While they need a bit more space than a hamster or fish, they don’t require outdoor access and can even be litter trained.
Choose a soft mat or fleece bedding to reduce noise and provide safe chew toys to protect furniture. Daily feeding and quick spot-cleaning are all it takes to keep a bunny happy in a small space.
9. Sea Monkeys (Brine Shrimp)
Yes, they’re a novelty—but sea monkeys are also a zero-hassle option if you're just looking for something alive to watch and care for. They come as kits, require minimal feeding, and live quietly in a desktop-sized tank.
They’re a fun choice for kids, classrooms, or minimalist pet lovers. While they won’t offer cuddles or interaction, they’re a peaceful, low-effort way to introduce responsibility or enjoy nature indoors.
10. African Dwarf Frogs
These fully aquatic frogs are an often-overlooked gem for apartment dwellers. They’re small, quiet, and live entirely underwater—meaning no hopping around your furniture or noise to deal with.
African dwarf frogs do best in a filtered tank of at least 5 gallons. They can coexist with certain peaceful fish species, eat floating pellets or frozen worms, and need very little daily maintenance beyond feeding and occasional tank cleaning.
11. Crested Geckos
Like their leopard gecko cousins, crested geckos are silent, clean, and beginner-friendly. They don’t need special UV lighting, and many can eat pre-packaged diets instead of live insects, which simplifies feeding for first-time reptile keepers.
They’re arboreal, meaning their enclosure should be taller than it is wide. With the right humidity and a few climbing branches, these geckos become lively but low-maintenance pets—perfect for calm, space-saving companionship.
12. Ant Farms
While unconventional, ant farms are incredibly low-maintenance and educational. They take up almost no space, require no hands-on contact, and only need occasional feeding (sugar water and tiny bits of protein).
Modern gel or sand ant farms provide visibility and a self-contained ecosystem. There's no odor, no noise, and no mess—just fascinating tunnels and teamwork unfolding before your eyes.
13. Snails (Aquatic or Land)
Snails are possibly the lowest-maintenance pets you can own. Aquatic snails, like nerites or mystery snails, help clean your fish tank and require no interaction. Land snails can live in small, ventilated terrariums and need only moisture, leafy greens, and calcium supplements.
They move slowly, make zero noise, and are completely content in tiny enclosures. Watching them glide and explore is strangely calming, especially after a long day in the city.
14. Fancy Mice
Fancy mice are social, inexpensive, and incredibly easy to care for. They're best kept in same-sex pairs or groups, and their cages can be customized with tunnels, hammocks, and wheels for enrichment. While they’re more active than hamsters, they’re still quiet and rarely destructive.
With proper bedding and a covered cage, they create very little mess or odor. A bonus: they’re fun to observe and can become surprisingly affectionate with regular handling.
Final Thoughts
Just because you live in a small apartment doesn't mean you have to miss out on the joy of pet ownership. These low-maintenance pets for apartments prove that even the busiest urban dwellers can enjoy companionship, enrichment, and comfort without the noise or hassle. Whether you lean toward the cuddly, the aquatic, or the exotic, there’s a pet on this list that can fit your lifestyle—and your square footage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest pet to care for in a small apartment?
Betta fish, hamsters, and aquatic snails are among the lowest-maintenance pets. They require little space, make no noise, and only need minimal daily care.
Are there any pets that don't smell?
Yes! Reptiles like leopard geckos, amphibians like dwarf frogs, and insects like ants or snails produce almost no odor when properly cared for.
Can I keep a pet if my apartment doesn't allow dogs or cats?
Absolutely. Most apartment restrictions apply to dogs and cats, but quiet pets like fish, reptiles, or rodents are usually allowed—just check your lease to be sure.
What pets are quiet enough for thin apartment walls?
Snails, turtles, betta fish, and geckos make no sound at all. Even animals like guinea pigs and rabbits are gentle enough not to disturb nearby neighbors if housed properly.
Do small pets get lonely in apartments?
Some do! Social species like guinea pigs, fancy mice, and budgies prefer to live in pairs or small groups. Solitary pets like bettas, hamsters, and reptiles are happier alone.
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