You have heard it all before: cats are free spirits, and they like to come and go as they please. However, every day the outside world becomes more dangerous for domestic cats. Not only are indoor cats safer than outdoor cats, they can even lead happier lives.
Why Cats Should Be Indoors
The outside world poses many threats to your feline companion. Roads are the most obvious danger; each year, more cats are killed by cars than are euthanized in United States animal shelters. Outdoor cats are more likely to contract diseases from other cats or animals. Furthermore, coyotes, large birds, or dogs often prey on domestic cats. These represent just some of the dangers to cats that lie beyond your front door.
A Feline Lifestyle (in a Human Household)
Cats thrive surprisingly well in human households; that’s why they make such great pets! Still, there are many ways you can make the experience better for them.
Indoor cats need just as much exercise as outdoor cats. This where toys come in. You can find great cat toys online such as wands and puzzle toys, but cats will play with just about anything. Paper bags and cardboard boxes make great toys; get creative! If your cat still seems energetic, consider buying them a cat-safe leash. Some cats love to go on daily walks, just like dogs!
There are many ways to organize a home with cats in mind. If you have limited space, you can open it up with kitty condos or cat trees. Cats enjoy feeling the sun, so place any pet beds or cat trees near the windows. Some newly-indoor cats may even enjoy a patch of cat grass to lie in. Like with the toys, this a perfect way to get creative and discover what works best for you and your feline friend!
Outsmarting the Escape Artists
Even indoor cats may try to escape every once in a while. Cats are curious, after all. Make sure to always close your windows and doors. Just in case your cat does get outside, give them up-to-date identification such as a collar or microchip. That way, anyone who comes across your cat can contact you directly.
You can lower the chance of possible escapes by getting your cat spayed or neutered. Pheromones released during mating season can draw an unfixed cat outdoors. Fixed cats also tend to be more docile and thus less likely to make such a spontaneous decision.
Claws N Paws Day Spa owns and operates a full-service grooming salon, as well as a cats-only boarding facility right next door. Although we are currently closed to observe social distancing, Claws N Paws is still dedicated to the needs of your pet. For more information and regular updates, you can follow us on Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or Instagram at @clawsnpawsdayspa_.