Keep Your Cat Happy Indoors

by admin · August 31, 2021

by Robert Hudson

You may be wondering if your indoor cats are pleased with their indoor entertainment, and the answer is they probably are! Domesticated cats don’t have to be outside to be happy. Many cats like watching the outdoors, kind of like how we watch TV. They don’t really want to be out there, but it is something different to watch. If a cat was used to being outdoors though, they may still crave some of that adventure. This can usually be overcome though as there are plenty of ways to keep your indoor cats entertained. Whether you’re bringing home a new cat or have one at home already, here are 5 tips from The Refined Feline to keep your cat happy indoors.

Tip #1: Green Up Your Home

Many cats may enjoy outdoor activities, and there are a few that you can bring to them indoors! Planting cat grass and catnip in your home is one surefire way to excite their senses. There are many different ways of going about this as well. Some stores sell cat grass seeds, which you will need to plant in a sturdy container. Other stores will have a small seedling ready, which you can transplant when it gets too big for the container. Remember to water them accordingly, and to move them to a bigger pot if need be. For catnip, you may be more used to the dried pieces in pet stores. However, you can also buy seeds or a seedling, and dry out the flowers and stems for your cat to enjoy later. If you have a garden, you can plant the catnip outdoors so your cat won’t get into it right away! If you have other plants at home or are considering getting others, just make sure that they’re safe for cats. There are a number of plants that are toxic to cats.

Tip #2: Play Regularly To Keep Your Cat Happy Indoors

It’s no secret that cats need plenty of exercise and playtime each day to keep them happy. This will deter them from feeling curious about going outdoors since their hunting instincts will be taken care of. What you may not know, however, is that most cats will need at least an hour of playtime each day. Some cats may need even more than an hour to stay active and healthy. It may seem surprising, seeing as they are often sleeping. Kittens need even more playtime than that. They’ll get a lot of their wiggles out by playing with their littermates.

Cats tend to sleep hard and play hard, thus it’s ideal to have multiple types of toys handy. Cats need to feel like they are hunting and catching their prey everyday to feel satisfied. Wand toys are a great way to release this energy in a positive way. Some cats really enjoy toy mice, and cats aren’t typically picky about their toys. A paper bag, cardboard box, bottle caps, and shoelaces can be your cat’s favorite toys. Battery operated toys will help your cat feel like they are really stalking something and will hold their attention longer. Just be sure to put away any hazardous toys, such as wand toys, when they are done playing. Providing enough play time should keep your cat happy indoors.

Tip #3: Free Entertainment Is Just Outside The Window

There’s some debate over this next tip, but it can be highly enjoyable for most cats. Depending on where you live, you can look into installing bird feeders outside for feline entertainment. Birdbaths, hummingbird feeders, and a plethora of other feeding and watering stations will provide unlimited amusement. Your cat will spend an endless amount of time watching birds from the safety of your home.

Some people feel like this may make their cats more driven to go outdoors, since they want to hunt. In some cases that may be true, especially if they are bored indoors and have a lot of energy. So, in addition to letting them birdwatch, you’ll still need to make sure they’re getting that hour of play time. You can also take this tip to the next level and install a catio if possible.

Tip #4: Keep Your Cat Happy Indoors With Cat Furniture

Cat trees, cat wall shelves, and window perches provide your cat their own space to be a cat. They can use the spaces to climb, play, or just lounge and watch the world outside. It’s vital to give your cats their own cat furniture as well as spaces to relax. Cats crave vertical space, and giving them a cat tree or wall shelf satisfies this need. Throw some catnip on the cat furniture and watch your furry felines unleash their inner tiger! There are many different styles of cat towers and shelves available for your kitty and your home. For a more cohesive home aesthetic, check out cat furniture from The Refined Feline. The ultra modern cat furniture blends in easily with your home and will please your cat’s sense of adventure.

Tip #5: If Your Cat Still Craves The Outdoors Consider A Harness

If your cat still seems to crave the great outdoors, there are ways to give them some safe outdoor time. If your cat is very confident, taking them on supervised walks around the yard may be a good idea. You’ll want to make sure you pick the right size harness for your cat. Make sure they can’t slip out of it and let them get used to it indoors first. Keep them close to home with limited noises and activities until they get more comfortable. Over time, they may want to explore more. Don’t try to force exploration on them though. Walking a cat is not the same as walking a dog. If your cat feels too exposed in a harness, there are pet strollers and backpacks available as well. Most strollers have a zippered compartment for a small pet to sit while you push them along. Most cats seem to enjoy this method more, as they can watch and take everything in while still feeling protected.