If you're considering keeping your cat indoors, you're not alone. Many responsible cat owners are choosing to keep their feline friends inside for their safety, well-being and the protection of native wildlife.
Making the transition from outdoor to indoor living can be be done and we're here to help. In this guide, we'll provide tips and strategies to help you keep your cat happy and healthy while living indoors.
The benefits of keeping your cat indoors.
Keeping your cat indoors can provide numerous benefits for their health and safety. Indoor cats are less likely to be hit by cars, attacked by other animals, or exposed to diseases.
In Australia, we are experiencing a rapid decline in wildlife due to cats. According to the University of Sydney , On average, each roaming pet cat kills 186 reptiles, birds and mammals per year, most of them native to Australia. These statistics have seen the introduction of cat curfews at night in some states of Australia. While NSW does not currently have any cat curfews, the NSW government is working in conjunction with the RSPCA NSW to encourage and educate cat owners to keep pet cats safely contained indoors.
By keeping your cat indoors, you can provide them with a safe and comfortable environment where they can live a long and healthy life.
How to make the transition to indoor living.
Making the transition to indoor living can be a big adjustment for cats who are used to spending time outdoors. To make the transition easier, start by creating a safe and comfortable indoor environment for your cat. This can include providing plenty of toys, scratching posts, and comfortable places to sleep. You can also consider using a harness and leash to take your cat outside for supervised playtime.
Gradually reducing the amount of time your cat spends outside can also help them adjust to indoor living. With patience and consistency, your cat can thrive as an indoor pet.
Creating a safe and stimulating indoor environment.
When transitioning your cat to indoor living, it’s important to create a safe and stimulating environment that meets their physical and mental needs.
Provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, and comfortable places to sleep. Consider adding a cat tree or shelves for climbing and perching. Make sure to also provide access to a litter box, food and water bowls, and a cozy hiding spot so they feel safe and secure.
Regular playtime and interaction with your cat can also help keep them mentally stimulated and happy indoors.
Providing exercise and mental stimulation.
Keeping your cat indoors doesn't mean they have to miss out on exercise and
You can also provide puzzle feeders or hide treats around the house to encourage your cat to use their natural hunting instincts. Consider creating a designated play area with climbing structures and scratching posts to keep your cat active and engaged.
Tips for dealing with common indoor cat issues.
While keeping your cat indoors can provide numerous benefits, it can also come with some challenges. One common issue is litter box problems, which can be addressed by providing multiple litter boxes in different locations and keeping them clean. Cats can be fussy when it comes to cat litter and the type of cat litter tray used.
A litter box and litter are essential items to have before transitioning your cat to the indoor lifestyle
Choose a litter tray that is appropriate for your kitten's size and age, and place it in a quiet and accessible location. There are different types of litter available, including clay, clumping, and natural options. The very best cat litter trays are now automated so you never have to touch soiled cat litter again! Learn more about our PetSafe ScoopFree Cat Litter Trays Here! Replacement PetSafe ScoopFree Litter is also available here.
Consider your kitten's preferences and any potential allergies or sensitivities when choosing a litter. It's important to clean the litter box regularly to maintain good hygiene and prevent any unpleasant odours.
Another issue is destructive behavior, which can be prevented by providing appropriate scratching surfaces and toys, as well as regular playtime and exercise.
Finally, some indoor cats may become bored or anxious, which can be addressed by providing plenty of mental stimulation and environmental enrichment. Catnip can assist with this behaviour as it heightens playtime!
Catnip can be enjoyed by cats in many ways, but it is important to use it safely. Never give or spray your cat with catnip directly — ingestion of large amounts of catnip can lead to digestive distress. Instead, buy cat safe cat toys that are impregnated with catnip or that allow you to add catnip to as required. Alternatively, catnip spray can be applied to a toy if you want to give your feline friend an extended “trip” that lasts throughout the day.
Modern cat toys will now have an option to add a sachet of catnip to the inside
of their cat toy. Some cats enjoy a romp in the pet Greens Catnip plant that you can grow specifically for your pet cat.
Additionally, you can apply catnip spray onto your cats furniture like their scratching post to reinvigorate its use and stimulate play.
Feed your cat a special indoor cat formula of cat food. Some indoor cats tend to over-eat. Choose a food that can meet the needs of your indoor cat lifestyle.
Many are formulated with the correct energy requirements of cats for indoor life and are high in fibre to prevent hairballs forming (this is more common in indoor cats).
Consider using a cat harness and lead to take your cat outdoors. A cat harness and leash is ideal for taking your kitty outdoors safely can be a helpful training tool too!
If you do decide to get one, a harness is usually better for kittens who may not like the feeling of a leash.
A final tip on creating a great indoor life is to allow your cat the time to adjust if they are used to being outdoors. Many tips and products work well in conjunction with one another and you will find what works best for your cat or kitten.
Feel free to ask our knowledgeable staff who are happy to help and answer any cat related questions you may have!
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