Owning an indoor cat comes with a unique set of responsibilities and challenges. First because cats are by nature curious explorers, and secondly because they have an incessant desire to play and hunt.

This makes it challenging to be an owner of an indoor cat. What then should indoor cat owners not do?

Read on to find out.

Letting curiosity kill the cat

Being that cats are playful and adventurous, the temptation for your indoor cat to explore the outdoors will always be high. However, this poses great danger to them.

Here’s some cautionary steps to protect your indoor cat:

Ensure you do not leave the windows or balcony doors open as they could leap into the unknown. Do not also neglect the need to have a cat door so your indoor cat has limited access to the outdoors using this designated point. In addition to this, do not forget to always have the windows closed or a safety net installed so your indoor cat does not accidentally fall out.

Don’t take the chance of your cat going outdoors : Freepik

Cats are pretty agile. Do not therefore use an unsecured harness as your indoor cat will most likely make an escape into the outdoors.

Don’t neglect their emotional well being

Cats can quickly become frustrated and stressed with staying indoors as they wont be free to mingle with other animals and people. This may impact on their emotions and cause anxiety. Here’s what not to do:

Be sure not to leave your indoor cat alone for long periods of time since they crave companionship, and you will most likely be the one they most interact with. The RSPCA recommends deliberately creating time to interact with your indoor cat. This is important because failing to spend time with your indoor cat will also most likely mean that you will not be able to recognize signs of anxiety or stress which could be detrimental.
Never punish your cat as this teaches them to be fearful and breaks the trust between you and your indoor cat.
Do not neglect to give them enough affection and attention through playing with or petting them.

Petting and playing with your cat increases your bond: Unsplash

Neglecting Safety Measures

Many pet owners will most likely ignore safety measures because they assume their cat will always be indoors. However, danger lurks whether inside or outside and neglecting to do this could lead to a permanent separation between you and your indoor cat. Therefore be sure not to:

Assume they don’t need identification: A collar with an ID tag, or microchip increases the chance of finding your indoor cat in case they get lost.

Make sure your cat does not get lost : Freepik

If you live in a large home, do not also neglect to have indoor specific identification in case your indoor cat wanders into other rooms.
Do not forget to vaccinate your indoor cat to keep them from getting preventable diseases, or being affected by germs inside the home. The Australian Veterinary Association advises that the vaccination protocol to be followed should be decided upon within a vet-client-patient relationship.

Vaccinating your cat keeps them in good health : Freepik

Neglecting to set up their space

Your indoor cat needs its space, both horizontal and vertical. Hence, it is crucial not to forget to do the following:

Provide them with scratching towers and climbing trees. This will satisfy their desire to scratch, help them mark territory and sharpen their claws. Else your furniture will have to bear the brunt!

Save your furniture. Get a scratching pole! : Pexels

Have multiple points of stay for your indoor cat. You can have several burrowing caves and cat baskets set up, ideally at different height points for them.

Have a designated place for your cat to rest and relax : Unsplash

Set up cat perches at window points so your indoor cat can look outside.

Ensure your cat can have a way to look at the outdoors: Unsplash

Ignoring Nutrition

It is very important to have a proper diet schedule and the right foods available for your indoor cat to keep them healthy. A few tips to keep in mind:

Don’t feed them high calorie diets as this could lead to obesity. Instead, ensure that you go for high protein low calorie food to keep them in shape. Don’t forget to monitor their food portions as well.

Go easy on dairy products: Contrary to popular belief, most cats are lactose intolerant so feeding on milk products such as milk or cheese can lead to health complications. To further curb this, check with your vet on the portions of dairy products your indoor cat can eat if any.
Dog food is a no no : According to WebMD, A little dog food will do no harm, but remember that your indoor cat has different dietary needs from a dog, and needs to be fed on the right diet to prevent malnutrition. Be sure to feed your cat with appropriate cat food so it gets the right nutrients.
Keep the treats to a minimum: Well, we all know what treats do to us humans; they often cause unnecessary weight gain and health conditions. Avoid overfeeding your indoor cat with too many treats for this very reason.

Give your cat treats but be sure to not overdo it : Pexels

These are just but a few of the things you should avoid if you want the best for your feline companion. Keep an eye out on our website for more tips on how to take care of your indoor cat.

Written by Joyce Ochieng for the CBF Store.