Keeping Your Cat Indoors

Our feline pals think of themselves as fierce predators, and they aren’t exactly wrong. Fluffy is a formidable hunter! However, kitties are very small and vulnerable, and can easily get into trouble outside. Your cute pet will be both healthier and safer staying indoors. However, your cat may not exactly see it that way, especially if she’s been allowed to roam freely in the past. Here, a Brampton, ON vet discusses keeping kitties inside.

Bring The Outside In

Kitties really enjoy sniffing and nibbling on plants. Fluffy also likes hiding behind green leaves and pretending to be a vicious hunter. Give your furball a taste of the Great Outdoors by setting out some non-toxic plants for her. You’ll find a great list of options at the ASPCA site here.

Make The Door Less Tempting

If you tell Fluffy that she’s grounded for her own good, she’ll probably only yawn and lick her paw. Your pet probably also won’t be swayed by hearing about the dangers cats face outside, such as weather, predators, cars, and other kitties. Therefore, you may need to more or less trick your cat into staying inside. Whenever your adventurous little pet approaches the door, do something to annoy her: clap your hands, bang two pots together, or sound a bike horn. These things won’t hurt your feline friend, but they will startle her, and may make her wary of the door.

Stimulation and Entertainment

Cats really do enjoy—and benefit from—the stimulation and entertainment they get from going outdoors. Make your home fun and exciting for your kitty by offering her lots of toys to pounce on. Fluffy will also enjoy having things to explore, such as pet tents and kitty tunnels. Cat towers are also great. A comfy window seat will please your kitty as well. If possible, put a birdfeeder up in your pet’s line of view. If you really want to go all-out, make your feline buddy her own catio by putting all these things on a screened porch or patio.

Purrs

It can take time for a cat to get used to the indoor life, but don’t give up! Pay lots of attention to Fluffy, so she feels pampered and loved. In time, even former strays can lose interest in going outdoors.

Please reach out to us, your Brampton, ON vet clinic, anytime. We’re happy to help!