Just because your cat lives indoors doesn’t mean they can’t have a happy and full life! There are plenty of ways to ensure your home provides the exercise, entertainment, and stimulation your feline friend needs.
Start Early
If you adopt your cat as a kitten, that’s when it’s time to start keeping him indoors at all times! That way, your cat will be happy to stay indoors as he grows up.
Add Vertical Space
Cats need to climb, so it’s important you give your indoor cat the opportunity! You can get your kitty a tall cat tree, install cat shelves on the walls, or even make space for your cat on a bookshelf. Whether cats are napping or just hanging out, they prefer to be above ground level. You’re increasing your kitty’s territory when you add vertical space. This is especially important if you’ve got multiple cats as more vertical climbing space allows your cats to establish their own hierarchy. Climbing is fun for cats, and also a great form of exercise.
Play, Play, Play
A lot of people choose to have cats as furry companions because they have a reputation for being easy and not a lot of work. While they may be easier to care for than dogs, they are definitely not without daily requirements. Besides food and water, cats need daily playtime! This is something that many cat parents neglect but daily play sessions will go a long way in keeping your cat healthy, happy, and young at heart for a very long time. Get different types of toys to keep it interesting for your furry friend. Try toys for cats to stalk, chase, pounce, and rabbit kick. Don’t forget interactive toys and brain games, and of course, catnip toys for a perfectly safe kitty buzz!
A Room With a View
Just because your cat is safer inside, doesn’t mean she wouldn’t enjoy watching the great outdoors! Consider a window perch like the easy-to-install window bed and hang a bird feeder outside. We call this Cat TV!
Go Green
While cats don’t need to eat grass to survive, it’s normal kitty behavior to eat grass. Ingesting grass is not harmful for your kitty, and some experts believe it’s beneficial for their well-being! Grow a tray of grass or catnip for your indoor cat to munch on and bring a bit of the outdoors in. And, while you’re at it make sure that the plants you already have in your home are not toxic to cats.
Keep it Clean
Cats are notorious neat freaks. If you’re keeping kitty safely indoors, you need to make sure you provide a clean place for him to “do his business” or you may end up with a cat that won’t use the litter box. This means scooping the box daily and thoroughly cleaning the box and changing the litter every month.
Go For Walks
While we can all agree that cats are safest from the dangers of predators, disease, and traffic when kept indoors, walking your cat on a harness and leash can be a wonderful way to let your feline companion enjoy a bit of outdoor time while ensuring his safety. Taking your cat for walks can alleviate boredom (and the behavior problems associated with it) and is a great way to exercise your kitty and reduce obesity. It also comes in really handy for travel and trips to the veterinarian! With a little bit of patience and training, you can teach most cats to walk on a leash. ( Check out these instructions on how to train your feline friend to walk on a leash!)
Do you keep your cat strictly indoors? What do you do to ensure your kitty is healthy and happy? Tell us in a comment below. And, if you found this article helpful, pin it for other cat lovers!
