Many people dream of having a furry, feathered, or scaly companion—but not everyone has the time, space, or energy for a high-maintenance pet. If you work long hours, live in an apartment, or simply want a more relaxed ownership experience, the good news is that there are plenty of low-maintenance pets that can bring joy without overwhelming responsibility.
When we talk about “easy pets to take care of,” we don’t mean pets that require zero work. Every animal deserves love, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. But some species and breeds are simply more independent, adaptable, and manageable, making them the best pets to have for busy lifestyles.
What makes a pet “low maintenance”?
The easiest pets to take care of usually share some or all of these qualities:
- Minimal grooming needs (no constant brushing or professional grooming)
- Lower exercise requirements (short play sessions or walks, not hours of activity)
- Comfortable with less direct attention and interaction
- Ability to thrive in smaller living spaces, such as apartments
- Simple diets (easy-to-source food, not complex feeding regimens)
- Generally hardy and healthy, with fewer vet visits needed
- Quiet enough not to disturb neighbors or housemates
- With those qualities in mind, let’s look at the best pets to have when your lifestyle is busy.
Easiest pets to take care of
Cats
Cats are among the most popular low-maintenance pets because of their independence and adaptability. They groom themselves, use litter boxes, and are usually content to nap for hours while you’re at work. Most cats do well indoors and adjust easily to apartment living.
Laid-back breeds like the British Shorthair, American Shorthair, and Ragdoll are especially suited for quieter homes.
Dogs (Specific low-maintenance breeds)
Dogs generally require more care than cats, but certain breeds are considered easy pets to take care of for people who still want canine companionship.
- Greyhounds (retired racers) – Surprisingly mellow and low-energy indoors.
- Bichon Frise – Minimal shedding, small, and adaptable.
- Cavalier King Charles spaniel – Affectionate lapdogs with moderate exercise needs.
- Pugs – Compact, playful, and love lounging.
- Basenjis – Known as the “barkless dog,” tidy and independent.
All dogs still need daily attention, but these breeds won’t demand marathon exercise sessions or endless grooming.
Fish
Fish are classic choices for low-maintenance pets, offering beauty and calm without requiring hands-on interaction.
- Betta fish – Thrive in small tanks, come in stunning colors.
- Goldfish – Hardy and long-lived with the right setup.
- Guppies and small community fish – Easy to care for in a group tank.
Reptiles & amphibians
For those open to non-traditional pets, reptiles and amphibians can be some of the easiest pets to take care of.
- Leopard geckos – Small, docile, and require minimal space.
- Corn snakes – Gentle and only need feeding every 1–2 weeks.
- African dwarf frogs – Fully aquatic, with very little daily upkeep.
Small rodents
Rodents are affordable, entertaining, and don’t take up much room.
- Hamsters (Syrian or dwarf) – Self-entertaining in their cages.
- Gerbils – Clean and social in pairs.
- Guinea pigs – Slightly bigger commitment, but simple to care for and affectionate.
Birds
Certain birds make excellent low-maintenance pets, especially for people who want companionship without constant handling.
- Finches – Social with each other, entertaining to watch.
- Canaries – Known for their cheerful singing and low interaction needs.
Tips for keeping low-maintenance pets easy
Even the easiest pets to take care of can become simpler with the right tools and planning:
- Automate feeding and cleaning – Automatic feeders and self-cleaning litter boxes like Litter-Robot, reduce daily chores and odors. One Litter-Robot can even replace multiple traditional boxes in a multi-cat household.
- Control smells in small spaces – Products like OdorTrap Packs help keep your home fresh.
- Design for efficiency – Place pet stations (e.g., where you keep the litter box, food, enclosure, etc.) thoughtfully to save space, especially if living in a small apartment.
The bottom line
Even “no-maintenance pets” still need care, love, and attention. But by choosing animals that align with your lifestyle, you can enjoy companionship without feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s a cat lounging by the window, a tank of colorful fish, or a mellow dog breed, there’s a perfect fit for every schedule and space.
