Have you decided it is time to bring your outdoor cat friend into your home permanently? Or have you already adopted a stray cat? If you are now wondering where and how to start the transition process, what adjustments are required, and most importantly, whether it is even possible for an outdoor cat to become an indoor cat, keep reading!
The good news is that most cats can accustom themselves to a homely atmosphere. However, there may be some exceptions, which will require patience and understanding. Today, we will learn with The Cat Vet’s very own Dr. Raimundo Tamagnini how to manage this change and whether you should consider this transition while adopting a stray cat.
Q: As a feline-friendly veterinary practitioner, what do you believe are the vital considerations before moving an outdoor cat indoors?
A: We need to keep in mind that there are different types of cats, and not all need or desire to live indoors, sharing a closed space with humans. In this context, we can broadly categorise cats into four distinct groups: the feral cat, the street cat, the intermediate cat, and the pet cat. Out of these four, a feral cat and the majority of street cats are most likely not able to transition into indoor cats.
A feral cat will hunt for survival, live a solitary lifestyle and most likely perceive human encounters as a threat. The majority of them come from generations of feral cats creating both kittens and adults with zero socialising skills with humans and avoiding any possible encounters with people at all times. Any type of constraint with space is highly discouraged for these cats. It will be beyond stressful for them to be indoors, nearly impossible and unnecessary.
A street or stray cat, which we can often see in Dubai (unfortunately), will show more tolerance towards people and possibly even friendly behaviour if feeding is involved. They roam free outdoors with no experience of living inside homes. The majority of stray cats are likely to be greatly distressed by confinement in a domestic setting as well. I would rather recommend against bringing these cats indoors. However, among the strays, many abandoned cats can adjust well to indoor life. We must carefully consider the long-term benefits and impact of domesticating a cat.
With this detailed explanation by Dr. Raimundo Tamagnini, we get back on today’s topic while focusing on pet cats in full domestication, those who have partial access to the outdoors, and stray cats who may have been abandoned or are comfortable near humans.
Q: What are some possible reasons to consider moving one’s cat from outdoors to indoors?
A: Outdoor cats are definitely more exposed to dangers and risks compared to indoor cats. Some of these risks may include road traffic accidents, exposure to environmental hazards such as toxic chemicals or pesticides, and consumption of poisonous plants. They might also face the risk of fights with other cats, which may result in multiple and severe injuries and even transmission of diseases such as Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and different types of parasites. They may also stray from their territory, which is hard to track, even with a microchip.
Q: And what are some benefits of cats having access to being outdoors?
A: Outdoor environments offer a wide variety of sights, sounds, and smells that can provide mental and sensory stimulation for your cat, which can alleviate boredom—which is quite common in indoor cats. As cats are natural hunters and explorers, allowing them to roam outdoors gives them opportunities to engage in physical activities like chasing insects, climbing trees, and running, which can help maintain a healthy weight and overall fitness. They also have the chance to engage in natural behaviours, such as climbing, digging, and hunting. We also cannot ignore the fact that outdoor cats often relieve themselves outside, which can reduce the need for you to maintain a clean litter box as frequently.
Q: What would be the first step to transitioning a cat from outdoor to indoor?
A: The first step would be for the owner to acknowledge and always keep in mind that it will be a slow and gradual transition. Abruptly changing the environment of an outdoor cat to live inside a house with constant human contact can end up being a stressful experience for both the cat and the owner. And at times, it may not even work. Start by gradually reducing their outdoor time and providing more indoor comforts. The process will take lots of patience.
Q: Could you list suggestions for the transition?
A: Domesticated adult cats typically need ample mental stimulation to make the indoor environment as appealing as outdoor exploration, which they would surely miss. Below are some tips for supporting them through the transition phase:
• Spend quality time with your cat. They will benefit from your interaction
• Provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, climbing structures for activities, and cosy spots for your cat to relax or hide.
• Engage your cat’s mind with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and playtime.
• Create an environment that mimics the outdoor experience. You can use bird feeders, window perches, or even cat TV (videos of birds and wildlife) to keep your cat entertained.
• Transition your cat’s meals from outdoor feeding to indoor feeding. This helps to associate food with being indoors.
Before the physical transition starts, consult your veterinarian for additional advice for a stress-free and smooth transition process for your cat and for a general health check to ensure your cat is healthy. Best of luck!
For additional information, feel free to contact our feline-friendly certified staff at 800228838.
