Cats are genetically similar to their ancestors and retain many natural behavioral traits that help wild cats survive. However, indoors cats may have limited opportunity to practice these behaviors, making them stressed, bored, or anxious. Keeping your cat indoors helps them stay safe from the elements, predators, and other cats, but you must provide an enriching environment that encourages natural behaviors to ensure their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our Valley Center Veterinary Clinic team shares ways to help your cat live their best indoor life. 

Climbing and perching behaviors in cats

Cats love to climb and perch because doing so allows them to survey their territory while feeling safe and secure. Indoor cats require vertical spaces for climbing and resting, such as cat trees, shelves, or window perches. Climbing structures should be sturdy and located in commonly used house areas so your cat feels included and can watch activities nearby. Climbing and perching help meet cats’ needs for physical exercise, mental stimulation, and resting in a secure place.

Play and hunting behaviors in cats

Cats are predators with strong hunting instincts. Engaging them in play that mimics hunting and stalking can help fulfill this need. Interactive toys, such as feather wands, laser pointers, and electronic mice, can give cats the thrill of the chase. However, to prevent frustration, ensure you allow your whiskered pal to catch their “prey” once in a while. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys can also mimic a hunt by making cats work for their meals.

Scratching behavior in cats

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats that allows them to mark their territory, stretch their muscles, maintain their claws, and relieve stress or anxiety. Rather than trying to prevent scratching altogether, you should encourage healthy, appropriate scratching by offering your feline friend multiple scratching posts and pads throughout the home. Sisal, cardboard, and carpet scratchers placed near high-traffic home areas reassure cats that they are clearly communicating their messages. Reward cats with treats, petting, brushing, or a favorite toy when they scratch appropriately.

Exercise and mental stimulation for cats

Regular exercise, exploration, and mental stimulation ensure your cat’s physical and psychological health. Daily play sessions during which you regularly rotate their toys, including catnip-filled toys, laser pointers, or interactive puzzles, create variety within a stable routine. Additionally, your whiskered pal should have access to windows to observe interesting wildlife outside. Alternatively, consider creating a catio—an enclosed outdoor space—where your cat can safely experience the outdoors. You can also find visually stimulating videos made for cats on the internet.

Social interactions for cats

While cats are often seen as being loners, they require social interaction and companionship from people or other pets. Setting aside quality time each day to engage in activities your cat enjoys helps contribute to their emotional well-being and meet their social needs. Grooming, petting, playing, or snuggling time are great options. If you have a multi-cat household, social interaction can sometimes become stressful. Keep peace in the house by ensuring each cat has space and resources, such as food, water, litter boxes, and beds, to prevent competition.

A note on routine and consistency for cats

Cats thrive on routine and predictability. Deviations from the daily schedule can cause your feline friend to feel stressed, potentially leading to a physical illness or a behavior disorder. Maintaining a consistent routine with set times for feeding, play, and other activities can help your cat feel calm and secure. 

Allowing your indoor cat to express their natural behaviors is essential for cultivating a happy, healthy feline home and meeting your whiskered pal’s needs. Regular veterinary checkups with our Valley Center Veterinary Clinic team are also vital to your furry pal’s health. Contact us to schedule a routine wellness visit or discuss behavioral health needs with our team.