Keep your cat happy indoors

Many people believe that cats “naturally” need to be outside so Kitties watching TV

they can exercise and hunt, and that it’s cruel to keep them indoors. But the reality is that we don’t live in a “natural” world. Cats are lost, hit by cars, killed by predators (and people!), and exposed to all kinds of danger and disease outside. Our cats depend on us to keep them safe, and it’s not impossible to keep them happy indoors. All we have to do is satisfy their need to hunt, climb, hide, and play. Easily done! Read on…

Playing with your indoor cat provides exercise, relieves stress,
and most important, satisfies his “predator within.” Play with
your cat every day, and give him opportunities to entertain himself when you’re away, too. Take the first 10 minutes when you get home from work to interact with your cat. He’s been alone for hours, and you are the most exciting part of his day!

Here are some ways to create a cat-friendly environment in your home:
• Buy or build cat furniture (“kitty condos”) for climbing and scratching.
• Simulate prey with wand-type toys like Cat Charmer.
• Toss crumpled paper or plastic rings from milk jug caps. Teach kitty to fetch!
• Throw ping pong balls in the bathtub.
• Slide straws or ice cubes across the floor.
• Play the Video Catnip movie or Animal Planet while you’re away.
• Leave out cardboard boxes and brown paper bags to hide in.
• Set up a window perch – preferably with a view of the bird feeder.
• Stuff a sock with catnip and cotton balls.
Kitties at play

Even if you’re able to provide lots of playtime for your cat, consider adopting another one, especially if you have a kitten. Most feline behaviorists agree that cats generally lead healthier, happier lives with a companion (even a dog!) with whom they can exercise, play, and just share space — even if they’re not best friends.

For more information on this and other feline-related subjects, go to the nonprofit
website www.catsinternational.org.