Why keep cats indoors?
Keeping your cat indoors isn’t about restricting their freedom it’s about keeping them safe. The outdoors can be a dangerous place for cats. From busy roads to predators to toxic plants, many things can harm your furry friend. Indoor cats are protected from these dangers, which means they often live longer, healthier lives. Indoor cats typically live between 12 and 15 years, while outdoor cats often have much shorter lifespans because of the hazards they face.
Health is another big reason to keep cats indoors. Outdoor cats are more likely to pick up parasites like fleas and ticks or contract serious diseases like feline leukaemia (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Keeping them indoors reduces their exposure to these risks.
There’s also the environment to consider. Cats are natural hunters and even the most well-fed indoor cat will instinctively chase smaller animals if given the chance. This can have a big effect on local wildlife, especially bird populations. You’re helping to protect the natural ecosystem while still giving your pet a safe and loving home.
Keeping your cat indoors gives you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about them getting lost, injured, or caught up in fights with other animals. It’s a simple way to ensure they’re always safe and sound.
How to keep Indoor cats healthy and stimulated
It’s important to remember that your indoor cat still needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Cats are naturally active and curious, so it’s up to you to create an environment that keeps them entertained and engaged.
One of the best ways to keep your cat mentally stimulated is through play. Interactive toys, like feather wands or laser pointers, can tap into their hunting instincts and provide hours of fun. Puzzle feeders are another great option. They make your cat work for their food, which keeps their brain active and satisfies their natural curiosity. Don’t forget to rotate their toys every few days to keep things fresh and exciting.
Cats also love to explore their surroundings, so creating vertical spaces is a must. Cat trees, shelves, or a window perch can give your cat a chance to climb, jump, and survey their domain. If you have the space, you could create an indoor obstacle course with tunnels, boxes, and hiding spots. This keeps them active and provides a safe space for them to retreat and relax.
If your cat seems to miss the outdoors, there are safe ways to let them experience a bit of nature. A “catio” (an enclosed outdoor space) can give them fresh air and sunlight without the risks. Some cats can even be trained to walk on a leash and harness, though this takes patience and practice. Just make sure any windows have secure screens to prevent escapes.
Extra care for indoor cats
Indoor cats rely entirely on their owners to meet their needs, so it’s important to go the extra mile to keep them healthy and happy. One of the biggest concerns for indoor cats is weight management. Without the opportunity to roam and hunt, they can easily become sedentary and gain weight. To prevent this, stick to a regular feeding schedule and avoid free feeding. High-quality, portion-controlled food designed for indoor cats will help to support their gut health and immune system. Incorporating wet food into their diet will help your house cat stay hydrated. Always make sure they have fresh, filtered water available.
Litter box maintenance is another key part of caring for an indoor cat. Cats are naturally clean animals, so a dirty litter box can stress them out or even lead to accidents. Make sure you have one litter box per cat, plus an extra one, and place them in quiet, easily accessible spots. Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter regularly to keep it fresh.
Regular vet check-ups are just as important for indoor cats as they are for outdoor ones. Even though they’re less exposed to certain risks, indoor cats can still develop health issues that need attention. Annual check-ups, vaccinations, and dental care should all be part of your routine.
Cats may seem independent, but they still need companionship and affection. Spend time with your cat every day, whether it’s through play, grooming, or just sitting together. If your cat is home alone during the day, consider adopting a second (or third) cat. Just make sure to introduce them slowly and carefully to make sure they get along.
Scratching posts, hiding spots, and cat-safe plants like cat grass make your home more exciting for your feline friend. These small touches can go a long way in keeping your cat mentally and physically stimulated.
Keeping your cat indoors is a decision that puts their safety, health, and happiness first. It does require a bit of extra effort to keep them entertained and engaged but the rewards are well worth it. Remember, a happy indoor cat is one that feels loved, entertained, and cared for, so take the time to make their indoor world as exciting as the great outdoors.
This article first appeared on Anima-Strath and can be found here.
References and additional reading:
- Cats Protection. (n.d.). Our Guide to Indoor Cats – What to Know. [online] Available at: https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/home-and-environment/indoor-cats
- 6 Tips For Happy and Healthy Indoor Cats. [online] Available at: https://www.petsbest.com/blog/6-tips-happy-healthy-indoor-cats
- Harvey, A. and Malik, R. (2020). Don’t let them out: 15 ways to keep your indoor cat happy. [online] The Conversation. Available at: https://theconversation.com/dont-let-them-out-15-ways-to-keep-your-indoor-cat-happy-138716
- PAWS (n.d.). Keeping Your Cat Happy Indoors. [online] PAWS. Available at: https://www.paws.org/resources/keeping-your-cat-happy-indoors/
- PetMD Editorial (2019). Secrets to Keeping Your Indoor Cat Happy. [online] Petmd.com. Available at: https://www.petmd.com/secrets-keeping-your-indoor-cat-happy