How To Turn An Outdoor Cat Into An Indoor Cat

If you have a cat that has spent time a lot of time outdoors and you want him to become an indoor cat, it can be done.  There are so many potential deadly dangerous situations outside from being hit by cars, stolen by strangers, attacked by predators, catching parasites or just getting lost that are constant threats to an outdoor cat. 

While your outdoor cat might not be that happy about the transition at the start, over time your kitty will get used to the change. Even if your cat spends only a little time outdoors, the transition can still be jarring for your kitty.

Below are some suggestions on how to make a smooth transition from moving your outdoor cat to be happy indoors:

Prepare Your Home Before You Start the Transition

The first step in transitioning your outdoor cat is to make your home as cat friendly as possible. Create a stimulating environment that is similar to the excitement of the outdoors. 

Scratching Posts:

Outdoor cats naturally scratch to mark their territory and keep their claws healthy. Provide multiple scratching posts or pads to satisfy this instinct.

Vertical Spaces:

Cats love to climb and perch. Install cat trees, shelves, or window perches to give them a vantage point similar to what they enjoy outdoors.

Interactive Toys:

Keep your cat entertained with toys that simulate hunting, such as laser pointers, feather wands, and puzzle feeders. Regular playtime will help burn off excess energy.

Litter Boxes:

Place litter boxes in quiet, accessible areas. You might need more than one, especially if your cat is used to doing its business outdoors. Experiment with different types of litter until you find one your cat prefers.

Your Outdoor Cat’s Introduction to Indoor Life Needs to Be Gradual

Cats are creatures of habit, and any change can be stressful for them. The key is to make the transition gradual and to try to gauge their response.

Start with Short Indoor Stints:

When you start the transition, it’s best to bring your cat inside for short periods, gradually increasing the time spent indoors each day. Offer treats, a little more food than usual (only at the start) and praise to create positive associations with being indoors.

Set A Daily Routine

Since cats are more comfortable with routine, establish a daily routine that includes feeding, playtime, and rest periods. A consistent schedule helps your cat feel secure and reduces anxiety.

Provide A Secure Outdoor Access:

If your cat is resistant to staying inside, consider creating a secure outdoor space like a catio (a cat patio) or using a leash and harness for supervised outdoor time. This way, your cat can still enjoy the fresh air while staying safe.

Keep Your Home Secure from Escape

Your kitty is used to staying outdoors so don’t be surprised if he or she tries to escape. Make sure screens fit snugly in windows and cannot be dislodged by a persistent cat. Dissuade door-dashing by drawing your cat away from doorways before entering and departing your home.

How To Overcome Behavioral Issues during The Transition

During the transition, your cat might exhibit behaviors like meowing to go outside, scratching at doors, or appearing restless. Some recommendations on how to handles these issues:

Ignore the Meowing:

If your cat meows to go outside, it’s crucial not to give in. Giving in reinforces the behavior. Instead, distract them with toys, treats, or attention when they’re quiet. And, over time, the will quiet down.

Provide toys, playtime and mental stimulation:

Boredom can lead to destructive behavior. Engage your cat in interactive play, offer puzzle toys, and rotate their toys to keep things interesting.

Create a Safe Comfortable Space for Your Kitty:

Set up a quiet area in your home where your cat can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. A cozy bed, some favorite toys, and access to water and litter should be available in this space.

Transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor lifestyle can take weeks or even months. Every cat is different, and some may adapt more quickly than others. Patience is key! Never force your cat to stay inside if they’re showing extreme distress or yell at them in any way. Instead, focus on making their indoor environment as inviting and enriching as possible.