Domestic cats retain certain natural tendencies specific to their ancient feline lineage. Behaviors, such as stalking, hunting, and scratching, are instinctive in cats. While indoor cats are protected from outdoor dangers, they need to be able to practice innate behaviors that are enriching. Our Animal Medical Center of Marquette team offers 10 tips for encouraging your indoor cat to engage in activities that mimic their wild nature. 

#1: Create feline-friendly vertical spaces

Cats love to climb and perch on high vantage points from which they can view their surroundings. Consider providing your whiskered pal with cat trees, shelves, or window perches to provide vertical space where they can explore. These high spaces satisfy your cat’s urge to climb and provide them with a sense of security while observing their territory. 

#2: Provide your cat with interactive toys

Toys and games that encourage hunting and stalking behaviors can create an outlet for your cat’s physical activity and mental enrichment. Tempt your furry friend with feather wands, laser pointers, or small plush toys that incite their prey drive. Engage your cat in daily play sessions to keep them physically and emotionally at their best. 

#3. Offer cat hideouts and quiet spots

Cats are natural hunters and seek out hiding spots from which to observe their environment or take a nap. Your feline friend will love cozy hiding spots in cat tunnels, cat cubes, open boxes, or covered beds where they can retreat and relax. Cats feel safest when they have privacy and allocated spots just for them.

#4: Provide your cat with multiple scratching posts

Scratching is a natural feline behavior that helps cats stretch their muscles, mark their territory, and maintain their claw health. As you may have observed, outdoor cats often use trees to mark their territory. This natural tendency applies to indoor kitties, too, which is why scratching posts are necessary to prevent furniture scratching. Give your cat sturdy scratching posts or pads in different textures and orientations to determine which type appeals most to your scratch-happy kitty.

#5: Give your cat puzzle feeders

Treat-dispensing puzzles can encourage your cat to “hunt” for their food. These feeders stimulate your feline’s problem-solving skills and also provide mental enrichment. You can choose from different types and sizes for your furry friend’s enjoyment. 

#6: Rotate cat toys 

Keep your cat’s environment dynamic by rotating toys and rearranging furniture periodically. Slight changes to their environment prevent boredom and encourage exploration of new spaces and objects. If your kitty becomes disinterested in certain toys, introduce new ones. Consider donating old toys to local animal rescues and shelters. 

#7: Allow your cat a room with a view

Window watching is a purr-fectly delightful activity for indoor cats. Provide a cat tree or perch near a window so your whiskered pal can observe outdoor sights and sounds. Bird or squirrel feeders outside the window can provide additional entertainment and enjoyment. 

#8: Grow cat grass and catnip

Offer cat grass or nontoxic indoor plants on which your cat can nibble. Not only does this satisfy their natural urge to chew, but these plants can also aid their digestion and reduce hairballs. Catnip inspires energy bursts in some cats, which increases physical exercise and mental stimulation. 

#9: Consider cat socialization

Despite the popular idea that cats are solitary creatures, most cats enjoy social structure and thrive in hierarchies within this structure. Consider adopting another cat to provide companionship for your indoor cat. Feline socialization can help prevent loneliness and encourage playful interactions. Gradually introduce any new household pets and ensure they are fully vaccinated before their arrival. 

#10: Allow your cat to safely explore the outdoors

If you have dedicated outdoor space, such as a backyard, consider building a secure outdoor enclosure or catio to give your furry pal fresh air, sunshine, and enrichment, while keeping them safe. Additionally, most cats can be leash-and-harness trained to take supervised walks or simply hang out in the backyard. Supervised outdoor time allows your cat to experience nature’s sights, sounds, and smells without the usual risks being outdoors poses. 

Incorporating our tips into your cat’s daily routine can help satisfy their natural instincts and ensure they lead a fulfilling life indoors. Remember to observe your cat’s preferences and adjust their environment to meet their needs. Call our Animal Medical Center of Marquette team to learn additional indoor cat tips or to schedule their next wellness exam.