There are various reasons why you might want to have an indoor cat. Maybe you live in a place where it is not safe for your kitty to roam outdoors. But do cats actually thrive in an indoor life? This is a controversial question, and there are a few factors that come into play. We explain what is important to consider if you want an indoor cat.
Benefits of a pure indoor cat
Better security
One of the main reasons why people choose to keep their cats indoors is that it obviously provides better physical safety. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of traffic, wild predators, or a neighborhood where other cats have well-established territories, an indoor life can provide a significantly safer and longer life.
Reduced risk of diseases
Indoor cats generally have a lower risk of contracting diseases than outdoor cats. They are less susceptible to parasitic infections, as well as injuries resulting from fights with other cats or wild animals.
A life as an indoor or outdoor cat - what is best for kitty?
Cats usually thrive best in a life that allows them to live according to their instincts and natural behaviors. If you have the opportunity to let your cat roam safely outside and they want to, this is often the best option. However, if this is not an option and you still want to have a cat, indoor cats can also live great lives. However, it requires a little more from you as the owner, compared to having an outdoor cat, and it is important to familiarize yourself with the needs of your indoor cat.
Worth noting
A cat that is used to being outside will be less likely to thrive indoors as it may miss the freedom. It is therefore best to keep your cat indoors from the start if you want it to be an indoor cat.
How to ensure a happy life as an indoor cat
A cat that lives exclusively indoors naturally does not get as much stimulation and activity as an outdoor cat. Therefore, it is important that you as the owner make arrangements to ensure that the cat can get enough of this indoors, so that it does not get bored and depressed.
Play and activity
Indoor cats need stimulation and activity every single day. A good addition is therefore a selection of different toys . Choose activity toys , laser pointers or fan sticks and set aside time for playtime every day!
Cat shelves and climbing frames
Cats love to climb high up, and thrive in places high up where they have a good view. That's why it's smart to set up cat shelves and climbing frames in various places in your home so your cat can climb and explore high up.
Give pussy a good view
An indoor cat can get a lot of pleasure from sitting and looking out the window at passersby, birds or even just branches swaying in the wind. Feel free to place a cat bed or create a comfortable spot by the window so that the cat can enjoy the view and the daylight.
Indoor grass
Outdoor cats usually have access to grass outdoors that they like to chew and nibble on. This also helps prevent hairballs. You can buy cat grass that you can grow indoors, so that your indoor cat also has access to grass. This grass is also great for preventing your kitty from eating other plants and flowers that could be potentially toxic.
Socialization
If you have the opportunity, it is recommended to have two indoor cats so that they get socialization and are less lonely. If your indoor cat is an "only child" it is very important that you provide plenty of quality time with cuddles, talking and playing.
Regular veterinary visits
Remember that even indoor cats need regular veterinary check-ups to ensure good health and necessary vaccinations. This is important to detect and treat any health problems early. Indoor cats should also be microchipped and neutered.
Choose cat food suitable for indoor cats
To ensure your cat maintains a healthy weight and gets the nutrients they need, you should choose a cat food that is formulated for indoor cats. Cats with a lower activity level are more prone to obesity, and by choosing a food that takes indoor life into account, you can prevent diseases related to obesity in cats.
Want to learn more about cats' needs and behavior? Read more articles on our cat blog!
