There's no doubt about it! Cats are becoming more and more popualr in this world as you read this. More people are beginning to realize the proper care for their cats and are beginning to learn how to ensure a long, happy life for them, also. For many of these cats we speak of, their lives will be spent indoors.
There are many dangers outside that a helpless cat could be introduced to. Being hit by cars, killed by loose dogs, or poisoned by accident or deliberately are some of the dangers we speak of. Another thing that could happen to your pet if it is an outdoor pet is death by other people. Some people hate cats, and when they see one on their property, they try to trap or kill it.
Cats can also catch diseases that they wouldn't catch if they were indoors, such as feline leukemia. So, please, keep your cats indoors to protect them.
Below, are some things that you might want to take into mind to help make your cat's indoor life more exciting and safe.
TOYS - The toys you use to entertain your cat help to give you cat a chance to release that energy that is naturally in him/her. Also, the toys help to keep your cat in shape, as well as to keep it busy while you are away. Poles with feathers at the end of a string, or anything that may act like "bait" at the end of a fishing pole, is very popular and is a fairly effective object. Your cats will love chasing the "bait around your house, as long as you control it! Catnip is a harmful, quite irresistible substance to most cats, but others it has no effect on. Stuff this in some socks, or other cloth, and watch your cat have a a great time without your aid. Don't spare your cat the pleasure of catnip; it's harmless.
FURNITURE - Outdoors, cats keep their claws sharp by scratching against tree trunks or other rough objects, and they also run, climb, and jump onto these objects. A scratching post in a far away corner of the room won't do for your cat. Try getting somthing that allows them to climb on, scratch, and to jump onto and look down onto the world. Before thinking about de-clawing, try praising your cat for using the scratching post instead of your furniture. Hey, it's only fair, cats need their furniture too!
FRESH AIR - Since your kitty won't be going outside, it still needs a fresh sensation of the world outside. Keep a perch by a window, or just leave the window upen a crack (in fair weather of course) so your ct can smell the outside air. If you cannot provide this, then taking your cat out on a harness and leash is an alternative.
All these things matter in keeping your cat a happy indoor cat, but remember, the most important thing in keeping your cat's life happy is you. Spend time with your pet by playing with it, grooming it, and caressing it, and you'll find your cat will be even happier than outside.
