Living with a cat in an HDB flat: 10 tips for a happy indoor cat
Cats can live very happily in a Singapore flat. Here is how to keep them safe, busy and comfortable — and keep the neighbours happy too.
Catacure · 16 October 2026
Most cats in Singapore live indoors, and with a little planning a flat can be a wonderful home for a cat.
Safety first
- Mesh or grilles on windows and balconies. Cats are curious and can fall from height — this is one of the most common serious injuries for cats in high-rise homes.
- Keep the main door closed when your cat is around, and teach family members and guests to check before opening it.
- Put away hazards: string and hair ties, rubber bands, small toys, medicines, and plants that are toxic to cats (such as lilies).
Use the height, not the floor space
- Add vertical space. A cat tree, wall shelves or a window perch give your cat more room without taking up the floor — and a high spot to watch the world.
- Give it a window view. Watching birds and people is entertainment for an indoor cat.
Daily routine
- Play every day. Two short play sessions with a wand toy help an indoor cat burn energy, especially active breeds like the Abyssinian.
- Scratching posts in the right places — near where your cat sleeps and near the sofa — protect your furniture.
- Litter box location: a quiet, easy-to-reach spot away from the food bowl. Scoop daily to keep smells down in a small space.
Being a good neighbour
- Keep your cat indoors and never let it roam the corridor or void deck.
- License your cat and keep within the number of cats allowed for your home — see our cat licence guide and the AVS website for the current rules.
Looking for cat trees, cat furniture or scratching pieces that fit a Singapore flat? Browse our cat accessories, or visit our showroom to see them in person.