Bringing cats indoors can protect both cats and local wildlife

Although making an outdoor cat live indoors may seem like an impossible task, especially for cats who seem set in their ways, a gentle transition will have your cat thinking the whole thing was their idea from the start. Use these tips to revamp your outdoor cat’s routine and get them happily settled into their new homebound lifestyle:

 

•  Introduce several scratching posts first, before changing anything else, so your cat will be well-versed in proper indoor scratching once their outdoor scratching outlets are gone.
•   Always feed your cat indoors to associate the house with the positive reward of food.
•   Start by restricting access to the outside after meals, and over time increase how long the door stays closed to slowly get your cat used to hanging out inside.
•  Make the house fun! Fill it with lots of toys that stimulate your cat’s hunting behaviors, like stalking, pouncing and chasing, and rotate these toys so they stay fresh. Plus, give your cat plenty of opportunities to climb and perch with cat trees, bookcases and floating shelves.
•  Bring the outdoors in by growing some cat-friendly plants or creating a window perch for your cat to sit and enjoy the view.
•  Boost the creature comforts of your home with warm, comfy beds in sunny locations that your cat will love to lounge in.
•  Play together to replace the social interaction your cat is used to getting from other cats with your loving attention.
•  Use treats to prevent door dashing once your cat is spending more time inside. When you see your cat heading for the door, throw a treat in the opposite direction to make them change course.
•  Consider leash walking or building a catio (a screened-in cat patio) for those cats who absolutely must have some outdoor time every once in a while.
•  Most of all, have patience. Habits take time to change. 

And remember, you can always reach out to your veterinarian for more advice and support.

Explore our calming cat pheromone products that may help ease your cat into their new life. >>