The interior cats need specific care to stay healthy and happy in a closed environment. Unlike cats that go outside, they do not have the opportunity to climb trees, hunt or explore. It is therefore essential to provide them with a stimulating environment and to pay attention to their food, mental well-being and health. Here are some tips to guarantee your inside cat a healthy and fulfilling life.
1. Provide a stimulating environment
Even if your cat lives inside, he needs stimulation to avoid boredom and maintain his mental well-being. Creating an environment rich in activities and distractions helps reduce the risk of stress and destructive behaviour.
How to create a stimulating environment:
- Cat trees and perches : Cats like to observe their environment in height. Install cat trees or special shelves where they can climb and perch.
- Interactive toys Offer a variety of toys (balls, lasers, feathers) so your cat can express its hunting instinct. Auto-rotating toys or food puzzles are also excellent for stimulating your intelligence.
- Observation spaces : Cats love watching what's going on outside. Set up corners near windows to allow them to look outside. You can install a small window hammock or a comfortable cushion on the edge.
2. Ensuring a balanced diet
The diet of an indoor cat must be adapted to its more sedentary lifestyle, to avoid weight gain and health problems related to obesity. Choose quality food, balanced and adapted to its specific nutritional needs.
Some tips to feed your inside cat well:
- Choose specific croquettes for indoor cats : Croquettes formulated for indoor cats usually contain fewer calories and more fibers to promote digestion and avoid weight gain.
- Avoid overnourishment : An inside cat tends to spend less than a cat going out. Respect the recommended servings on the food package and avoid giving it too much treats.
- Give him enough water : Inside cats may be exposed to urinary problems if they do not drink enough. Encourage it to drink by placing several bowls of water in the house or investing in a water fountain, which often attracts them more than a classic bowl.
3. Maintain mental and emotional well-being
The mental welfare Your cat is as important as its physical health. A happy cat is a cat that feels safe and loved in its environment.
What you can do to promote its development:
- Spend time with him : Inside cats need regular interactions with their owners. Play with him every day and dedicate moments of hugs to strengthen your bond.
- Avoid abrupt changes : Cats are routine animals. Sudden changes, such as moving or changing their environment, can stress them. Try to maintain a certain consistency in their daily lives.
- Provide a quiet and secure space : Every cat must have a place where it can withdraw to be calm. It can be a cozy corner with a basket or box where it can take refuge if needed.
4. Maintain claws and coat
Inside cats have less opportunities to use their claws naturally than outside cats. In addition, their coat may require special maintenance, especially for long-haired breeds.
How to maintain your inside cat:
- Scrapers : Install several claws in the house so your cat can maintain its claws. You can choose vertical, horizontal or multifunctional cat shafts.
- Cut claws if necessary : If your cat doesn't come out at all, you may have to cut his claws regularly to avoid them becoming too long and uncomfortable. Ask your veterinarian for advice to do so properly.
- Brush coat regularly : Cats, especially those with long hair, should be brushed regularly to avoid knots and hairballs. It also helps to reduce the amount of hair lost in the home.
5. Ensure his health with regular visits to the veterinarian
Even if they don't come out, the interior cats must be regularly monitored by a veterinarian to check their general health and receive the necessary vaccines and pest control treatments.
The points to watch at your cat:
- Current vaccination : Even if your cat does not come out, some diseases can be introduced into the house by other animals or via your shoes and clothes. It is therefore important to continue to vaccinate your cat against the main feline diseases.
- Weight control : A veterinarian can help you monitor your cat's weight and adjust its diet accordingly.
- Prevention of pests : Inside cats can also be infested with fleas or other parasites. Be sure to regularly give them appropriate pest control treatments.
Summary table of care for an indoor cat
| Aspect | Practical advice |
|---|---|
| Stimulating environment | Cat trees, interactive toys, perches near windows |
| Balanced diet | Croquettes for indoor cats, controlled portions, sufficient water |
| Mental well-being | Game moments and hugs, quiet space, avoid sudden changes |
| Claw and coat maintenance | Gribbles, claw cutting, regular brushing of the coat |
| Health and veterinary monitoring | Regular veterinary visits, up-to-date vaccination, pest control |
Take care of your interior cat requires a little attention and preparation, but with the right tools and some daily gestures, you can offer him a long, healthy and happy life. A stimulating environment, a proper diet and regular care will allow your cat to flourish fully in an indoor setting.
