Cats do not require regular walks like dogs and their well-being can be maintained with indoor exercise. So, are walks really needed for cats? "The feline fraternity is generally good at keeping themselves active and do well in a controlled environment.
The types of cats that would enjoy an outdoor leash walk include cats that show signs of boredom or stress, apartment cats, and cats that are adventurous. Stress in a cat is typically demonstrated by overgrooming, urinating outside the litter box, and destructive tendencies around the home.
Debunking Common Myths. If you want to avoid all of the risks that we've discussed, it's best to keep your cat indoors. While cats may seem like they want to go outdoors, the safest bet is to create a stimulating environment for them inside so they will be content and fulfilled.
Cats need exercise of at least 30 minutes each day. Outdoor cats may need less time to exercise since they have access to natural environment and various stimuli. Indoor cats, though, can still be fit and healthy with 30 minutes of indoor play.
Most will take their time and explore very slowly and carefully. Let them explore in their own time and don't panic if they hop over a fence, or go further than you feel comfortable, most cats come back after a few minutes, at which point you can give them a tasty treat to encourage their return.
As amazing as it sounds, cats do have a special ability called a homing instinct that helps them find their way back home.
While most veterinarians acknowledge that cats are much safer without going outside where they risk exposure to disease or trauma, there are some cats who may resist being indoors only. AHS encourages leash-training kitties who incessantly beg to be outdoors.
Cats can settle well into an indoor lifestyle, but if you find your cat is showing signs of boredom or stress (over-grooming, aggression or being destructive) taking them outside on a leash/harness could be a good solution. If you have a garden, the next best thing would be an outdoor enclosure for your feline friends.
If your cat keeps wanting to go outside, he may simply be bored. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scratching posts, and climbing towers can keep your fur baby entertained so he's not constantly meowing at the door. Regular playtime can also help.
Many cat behaviorists and vets recommend that indoor cats get at least 20-60 minutes of exercise a day. They also recommend splitting this playtime up into short bursts. Cats are very routine-driven, so having a few scheduled playtimes throughout the day will help your cat stay active without wearing them out.
You'll know your cat is happy if they show affection to you and want to interact with you. A content kitty loves scritches, snuggles, head boops, and lap sits. Every cat is different, of course, and some prefer to lay near you rather than on you. In general, though, a happy cat shows it by being close to their human.
Cats usually place scent marks in their territory, which exert a calming effect on the animal. Going for a walk means moving in an unknown environment without its reassuring marks. There is also the risk of the cat getting hurt or a sudden fright when meeting unfamiliar dogs.
Cats are happier and healthier when they're safe, which means living indoors. If they're eager to explore outdoors, you can give them opportunities to do so under supervision.
While it is true that cats enjoy sunshine, fresh air, and exercise, they do not need to go outside to be satisfied.
Health issues often are to blame, so it is good that you had her checked and eliminated that possibility. Cats are very sensitive creatures, however, so something else could have upset her and made her unwilling to go outside. Have there been any changes in your household, such as a guest or new occupant of the house?
Indoor cats have not experienced most things outside, so walks can be overwhelming for them at first. Gradual exposure to the outdoors with treats will get them used to these things and help them walk with you. Avoid car traffic and areas with dogs who might chase or injure your cat.
Cats are naturally skittish by nature. So an indoor cat that gets lost outdoors, is typically terrified. And they don't have the first clue where to go or what to do! Often times a cat's curiosity will get the best of them.
Cons of Indoor Cats
Some indoor cats also experience depression and separation anxiety.
Council can issue an order to stop your cat trespassing and if you don't comply you can be fined. Some Councils require cats to be confined to their owner's property during certain hours. Others prohibit or restrict cats in some places. Check with your local council to see if these requirements apply in your area.
But we do know that cats have a homing instinct. A homing instinct is the ability for animals to navigate through unfamiliar territory back to their home. In addition to cats, a number of different animals have homing instincts, including birds, bees and salmon. This homing ability works differently for each species.
Indoor cats who get outdoors are typically found less than three houses away. Ask friends and neighbors to help with the search, and check under decks and porches, in garages and sheds, and other places where a cat could hide or get trapped.
Cats will miss their owners when they are gone, but the response to a cat missing you may vary. Some kitties may express their sadness through purring, meowing, or following their owner around, while others may show no outward signs of sadness. Here are some common signs your cat missed you: Meowing and Crying.
The answer is clear when you realize that the average lifespan of an indoor cat ranges from 10 to 20 years, whereas cats who go outdoors typically live only 2 to 5 years. Cats who are allowed to roam outdoors face huge safety and health risks, and sadly, some pay for that freedom with their lives.
Cats will sleep wherever they feel safe—and that may be outside in a quiet, dark corner of your house or yard. However, it's essential to remember that cats don't want to be surprised by something (like a loud noise).
Indoor cats live longer safer lives than outdoor cats. They tend to be more affectionate as they bond strongly with their owners. however if not properly cared for they can be prone to boredom, obesity and anxiety.