Increasingly, these days, domestic cats are being kept indoors and not allowed to roam freely outdoors, as they may have done in the past.
Outdoor cats are used to the freedom and adventures of being outdoors, but there are numerous factors that make it safer for outdoor cats to actually live indoors.
How can we do this, when they have been used to trotting outside whenever they feel the desire?
Transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor cat requires a gradual approach that integrates both the cat’s old habits and the new environment.
Some cats may have been wholly outdoor cats and others may have had the freedom to go from indoors to outdoors.
This article is about transitioning a wholly outdoor cat to be an indoor cat, however there is much in this article that can be applied to closing the door finally, for your indoor/outdoor cat to be totally indoors.
Table Of Contents
The Transitioning Process from Outdoor cat to indoor cat
Transition Period
During the first phase of transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor cat, it is crucial to establish a transition period.
The transition period should be gradual, allowing the cat time to adapt to their indoor only surroundings and learn the rules as an indoor cat.
During this time, we should closely monitor their behavior and be patient as they adjust.
Small Room
Introducing an outdoor cat to a small, comfortable room can be an effective way to initiate their transition to indoor life.
This room should be equipped with food, water, a litter box, and cozy bedding.
A scratching post is also desirable, as cats need to engage in scratching behavior.
Gradually, increase the time that the cat spends inside, allowing them to explore and become accustomed to the indoor environment.
Once they are comfortable, then gradually introduce them to other areas of the home.
Open Door
As the outdoor cat starts to become familiar with their indoor surroundings, it’s essential to encourage them to stay inside.
One strategy is to gradually reduce the time that the outdoor door or cat door is open.
Maintaining a routine can help the cat feel secure in their transition, ensuring they receive consistent mealtimes, playtimes, and attention.
Creating a Comfortable Indoor Environment
In this section, we will discuss the importance of incorporating vertical space, yes really, and window perches, and selecting appropriate cat furniture.
Incorporating Vertical Space
Cats naturally love climbing and exploring high places, so providing vertical space is essential for creating a comfortable indoor environment.
Cat trees and cat shelves are popular options that allow your feline friend to satisfy their climbing instincts.
If you can, arrange the cat trees or shelves in a way that encourages movement and exploration, such as creating a “staircase” for them to climb.
If you are short on space, utilizing any vertical space in your home makes perfect sense. The same applies to cat window perches. Cats adore sitting up high and having a good look around.
Remember to consider the stability of the structures but particularly large cat trees, as your cat will be jumping and playing on them.
Some of the larger cat trees have an anchor that is attached to the wall to ensure stability. Consider using an anchor for everyone’s safety.
We did this with a bookcase in a bedroom that was just asking to be climbed but I worried that an overenthusiastic climber (of the human variety) may make it topple over.
Providing Window Perches
Giving your cat access to a sunny window can help them feel more engaged with their surroundings because they can see what is going on.
A cat window perch offers a comfortable place for your cat to bask in the sun and get the goss. Note: Make sure the window doesn’t get too hot for a basking place.
Installing window perches in different rooms of your home can provide your cat with several vantage points.
We made a cat window perch in our home that also included a ramp for the kitty to stroll up before settling down into his perch. There are so many wonderful products for this purpose that it really isn’t necessary to build your own.
Cats enjoy watching birds, squirrels, and other wildlife outside.
Selecting Appropriate Cat Furniture
Choosing the right cat furniture can dramatically impact your cat’s comfort and happiness indoors.
As well as cat trees and window perches, consider providing scratching posts or pads for your cat to maintain their claws and mark their territory.
Grow some cat grass, cats love it and it’s easy to grow.
Investigate their preferences, as some cats may prefer horizontal scratchers while others lean towards vertical ones.
Another furniture option which I think is particularly useful is a step of steps.
Your cat won’t need them if he is younger but they are invaluable for older kitties.
A lightweight set of steps can be moved around easily. Make like easier for your older indoor kitty.
Please ignore the doggy (cute as he is) and imagine your cat using the stairs. The car example is more relevant for a dog but all of the other examples are perfect for cats.
Mental Stimulation Ideas For An Outdoor cat to Be An Indoor Cat
Interactive Play
We can engage our cats in interactive play by using toys that simulate hunting behaviors.
This could include wand toys with feathers or even using simple household items like paper bags and aluminum foil.
Rotate Toys
We recommend rotating toys regularly to maintain their novelty. It doesn’t have to be a complex operation, just swap a few toys in and out of your cat’s play area every week or so.
Wand Toys
Feather teasers, fluttering insects, or furry mice
Chasing Toys
Small balls, toy mice, or crinkly foil balls
Independent Play
Catnip filled toys, jingle balls, or soft plushies
Puzzle Feeders
Introducing a puzzle cat feeder is another way to stimulate an indoor cat’s mental health.
Puzzle feeders provide an element of problem solving and often require cats to use their paws, nose, or mouth to access their food or treats.
This activity not only keeps them entertained but also helps to slow down their eating, which can be beneficial for weight management. Puzzle feeders are great if you are away at work all day.
Here are some puzzle feeder ideas:
Commercial Feeders
Look for feeders that cater to your cat’s individual preferences, such as ball or maze-type designs
DIY options For Cat Puzzle Feeders
Use cardboard boxes, paper bags, or old plastic containers to make your own puzzle feeder
Repurposed items
Transform household items like egg cartons, muffin trays, or water bottles into creative feeders
Remember, the goal is to provide our indoor kitties with opportunities to express their natural behaviors and prevent boredom.
Adjusting to Indoor Life with Multiple Cats
Introducing New Feline Friends
When bringing an outdoor cat indoors, especially if there are other cats in the home, it’s essential to introduce them slowly.
Start by setting up a separate space for the new cat, as mentioned earlier in this article, like a closed off room, where the cat can gradually get accustomed to indoor life.
There’s detailed information here about introducing multiple cats.
Swap the cats’ bedding and food bowls regularly to help them become familiar with each other’s scent.
Once the new cat becomes comfortable in its space, supervise short face to face interactions, gradually increasing their duration over time.
The Benefits of Indoor Life For Cats
One major environmental advantage of keeping cats indoors is the protection of local wildlife populations.
Cats are natural predators, and when they roam outdoors, they may hunt and kill birds, rodents, and other small creatures.
We had a semi indoor outdoor cat and he did certainly catch rats. He as a bit like the Pied piper of the neighbourhood.
He had also been trained to walk amongst the magpies as they were fed by my other half. I am not saying that he wouldn’t have attacked other birds but he and the magpies tolerated each other even walking almost side by side.
Food was involved for the magpies and the cat – a motivating factor for sure.
Overall though, I would now recommend indoors only.
Finally, while some may argue that outdoor life provides more stimulation for cats, we can replicate these experiences within the safe confines of our homes.
With plenty of toys, climbing equipment, and creative playtime, cats can enjoy the great indoors just as much as their outdoor counterparts.
Outdoor Time Alternatives For Cats
As cat owners, we want to provide our feline friends with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors safely.
In this section, we will discuss two popular methods for allowing your indoor cat to experience nature while minimizing risks to their health and the surrounding wildlife – outdoor enclosures and leash training.
There are tons of catio ideas in this article.
Outdoor Enclosures
Outdoor enclosures, also known as “catios,” are an excellent way for your indoor cat to bask in the sun and observe wildlife without the risks associated with being outside. These enclosures can be purchased or built to suit your feline friend’s needs, from small window perches to large, free-standing secure structures.
Install special cat fencing or mesh around your safe, enclosed yard, allowing your cat to explore without the risk of escaping or encountering predators.
Add features like:
- Shade Ensure your cat has a comfortable place to retreat from the sun.
- Perches Install platforms and perches at various heights for your cat to climb and lounge.
- Toys
Leash Training
Leash training is another great way to safely provide time outdoors for your cat. While it might not be for every cat, those accustomed to the harness and leash can enjoy short, supervised walks in outdoors.
Walking your cat on a leash is growing in popularity. It would have been laughed at as a joke once, but now, you do see cats on leashes and it doesn’t seem unusual.
Here are some steps to follow when leash training your cat:
1. Introducing the harness
To help your cat get used to their new harness, introduce it at home first. Allow them to sniff and explore it before putting it on. You may need to do this over several days.
2. Harness and leash practice
Start by attaching the leash while they are inside and let them get used to the weight and feeling of the leash.
Reward your cat with treats and praise when they walk comfortably with the leash.
3. Outdoor time
Begin with short outdoor visits in a quiet, controlled area.
Gradually increase the duration and distance of outdoor time, making sure your cat remains comfortable and relaxed.
Remember, it’s essential to monitor your cat’s reactions and stress levels during these activities.
The goal is to provide a fun, safe way for them to enjoy the great outdoors without compromising their health or the local wildlife.
By taking the time to establish proper outdoor alternatives, we can give our indoor cats a taste of nature while keeping them safe and secure.
