Good news, Singapore cat lovers: HDB officially allows cats as of 2024. But whether you’re in a cozy 3-room flat or a spacious condo, creating the perfect cat-friendly home requires some planning.
Here’s everything we’ve learned from helping hundreds of Xi Meow families prepare their homes for their new feline companions.
HDB Cat Ownership: What You Need to Know
The rules are straightforward:
- Maximum 2 cats per HDB household
- Microchipping required – registered with AVS (Animal & Veterinary Service)
- Sterilization mandatory – we handle this before adoption
- Indoor only – cats must not roam common areas
Pro tip: Keep your AVS registration documents handy. Some town councils may request proof during routine checks.
The #1 Safety Priority: Window & Balcony Protection
This is non-negotiable. Every year, cats fall from high-rise buildings in Singapore. It’s called “high-rise syndrome” and it’s 100% preventable.
Window Solutions (Budget to Premium)
| Option | Cost | Best For |
| Magnetic mesh screens | $30-50/window | Renters (removable) |
| DIY wire mesh + frame | $50-80/window | Budget-conscious owners |
| Professional cat-proof grilles | $150-300/window | Permanent homes |
| Invisible grille systems | $200-400/window | Aesthetic priority |
Critical rule: Gaps must be no wider than 2 inches (5cm). Cats can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces.
Balcony Enclosure
If you have a balcony, full mesh enclosure is the safest option. Many Singapore companies specialize in cat-proof netting that’s nearly invisible from outside.
Small Space? Think Vertical
Here’s what most new cat owners don’t realize: cats care more about vertical space than floor space. A 3-room HDB with good vertical enrichment can be more satisfying for a cat than a large landed home with nothing to climb.
Vertical Space Ideas
Must-haves:
- Cat tree (at least 5ft tall) – Place near a window for “Cat TV” (bird watching)
- Window perch – Suction cup or bracket-mounted; cats can watch for hours
- High hiding spots – Top of wardrobes, shelves – cats feel safe when elevated
Nice-to-haves:
- Wall-mounted cat shelves – Create a “cat highway” around your room
- Cat bridge – Connect two high points for adventure
- Ceiling-mounted hammock – Ultimate cat luxury
Budget tip: IKEA’s LACK shelves ($9.90 each) make excellent DIY cat shelves when mounted with L-brackets.
Which Breeds Thrive in Singapore Apartments?
All four breeds we raise at Xi Meow are specifically suited for Singapore’s indoor, apartment lifestyle:
British Shorthair & British Longhair
Apartment rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
These calm, adaptable cats are perhaps the most apartment-friendly breeds. They’re not climbers or jumpers by nature, content to lounge on their cat tree and watch the world. Their quiet nature means no complaints from neighbors about meowing.
Ragdoll
Apartment rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Despite their size, Ragdolls are gentle giants perfectly suited to indoor life. They’re floor-dwellers by nature – you won’t find them scaling your curtains. They want to be where you are, which usually means the couch or your bed.
Munchkin
Apartment rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Their short legs actually make them ideal for smaller spaces – they can’t jump as high, so your kitchen counters are safer! They’re playful but their zoomies are more “scurry” than “sprint,” causing less chaos.
Not sure which breed suits your home? Read our guide: British Shorthair vs Ragdoll comparison.
Surviving Singapore’s Heat & Humidity
Our tropical climate requires some adjustments:
Keeping Cool
- Air-con isn’t mandatory – but cats appreciate it during peak heat (12-3pm)
- Cool surfaces – Provide access to tile floors; cats naturally seek cool spots
- Fans work well – Place near their favorite spots (not directly blowing on them)
- Frozen treats – Ice cubes in water bowl, frozen wet food treats
Hydration is Critical
- Water fountain – Cats prefer running water; fountains encourage drinking
- Multiple water stations – At least 2-3 locations around your home
- Wet food – Adds moisture to their diet (important in our climate)
Coat Care in Humidity
- British Shorthair – Minimal grooming needed; weekly brushing
- British Longhair – 2-3x weekly brushing prevents matting
- Ragdoll – Semi-long coat; 2x weekly brushing
- Munchkin – Short coat; weekly brushing sufficient
The Essential Shopping List
Before bringing your kitten home, prepare:
Day One Essentials
- ☐ Cat carrier – Hard-sided recommended for vet trips
- ☐ Litter box – Covered type helps contain mess and odor
- ☐ Litter – We recommend clumping clay or tofu litter
- ☐ Food & water bowls – Ceramic or stainless steel (plastic can cause chin acne)
- ☐ Kitten food – We’ll advise on what your kitten is currently eating
- ☐ Scratching post – At least one; saves your furniture
First Week Additions
- ☐ Cat tree – Essential vertical space
- ☐ Interactive toys – Feather wands, ball tracks
- ☐ Grooming brush – Breed-appropriate
- ☐ Cozy bed – Though they’ll probably prefer your bed
Ready to Welcome Your New Family Member?
A little preparation goes a long way. Once your home is cat-proofed and equipped, you’re ready for one of life’s greatest joys – coming home to a furry friend who’s genuinely happy to see you.
Visit Xi Meow Cattery:
📍 277 Joo Chiat Rd, #02-01, Singapore 427531
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing for your specific breed, and answer any questions about Singapore cat ownership.
Already have your kitten picked out? Read our training tips for new kitten owners to ensure a smooth transition.
Learn more about the teddy bear charm of British Shorthairs – one of Singapore’s most popular apartment-friendly breeds.
