For some, the idea of having a happy cat in an apartment is science fiction, even abuse! And it is true that adult cats have a reputation for loving wide open spaces and independence. However, we should not make generalizations, because certain breeds of cats thrive very easily in a small interior. Add to this the personalities that mean that some cats will like to roam outside while others will be more quiet and clumsy on the sofa. But for a cat to be happy in an apartment or studio, its human will have to make some “efforts”. Indeed, the arrangements and choices you make will be decisive for your pet to thrive! Here’s how to make a cat happy for apartment life.
In addition, check out our ideas for keeping your cat busy in your absence, useful both at home and in an apartment!
1) Basic needs for an apartment cat
In terms of layout, we often do what we can with the space we have. On the other hand, there are certain points on which we can’t compromise. For example, it is essential:
–Keep litter as far away from the dining and sleeping area as possible. Would you like to eat or sleep in the toilet with unpleasant odors in your nose? He would then risk to stop eating your cat food or from relieve oneself elsewhere… Besides, empty the litter box every day and do a weekly cleaning!
-Opt for quality and suitable food. Without it, he risks gaining weight quickly, being in poor health and being bothered by his hairballs. Brush his fur. Above all, give him free access to food and drink at all times to avoid stress and anxiety. Indeed, in the wild, these felines hunt and eat several small meals throughout the day. Respect this natural instinct by leaving them something to snack on in a quiet corner (without noise or traffic)!
-Finally, don’t skimp on catnip (catnip). Euphoric, good for transit and non-toxicit helps them to purge themselves, in particular to get rid of hairballs.
2) Don’t think that going to the vet or vaccinating him is useless
Very often, cat owners think that he doesn’t risk anything in the apartment. As a result, these felines are neither vaccinated nor taken to the veterinarian for health checks. However, if your cat does not go out, it is not your case who can bring in feline viruses or parasites from outside. This is especially the case if you touch an unknown cat. Very resistant, these viruses will then infect your animal… hence the importance of vaccinating it! Plus, if he ever escapes, you’ll be reassured to know he’s at least protected from disease. Let us add that he risk of having worms. He will then need a dewormer. Buying a cat or any pet also means ensuring good monitoring and veterinary care. It’s not just for cuddles!
The question of sterilization or not:
As for sterilization, this allowsavoid urine markings et sexual arousal behaviors. And it’s also good for animal health, the coat and the life expectancy of indoor cats. On the other hand, you will then have to take care of his diet to prevent him from gaining too much weight if you choose to sterilize him. Buy kibbles and treats adapted to its nutritional needs in the kitty bowl or kitty.
3) Put scratching posts in the spotlight to make your cat happy in an apartment
Since he can’t wear his claws outsidethe scratching post is of particular importance for your cat. He can thus make his claws. In addition, scratching is a behavioral need: it allows you to leave your scent and a visual trace everywhere. Without this, the claws can become too longpush into the pads and cause pain and infections. Except for an old, less active cat who will require your intervention to trim its claws, only the scratching post protects your indoor cat from problems. Moreover, it keeps him busy and lets him off steam ! You can install them on walls, wasted spaces or even table legs. And if he attacks the sofa or armchair, stick a scratching post there so that the kitten damages the fabric less!
4) Find high places just for him where he will be calm
In addition to offering him a space of rest far from the family tumultthey will allow him to look at what is happening, all without being seen! Here, we can of course rely on the cat tree, especially since a model taller than wide will take up less space. However, you can also use your furniture skillfully. For example, you can leave a corner of a shelf without any knick-knacks. Otherwise, there is the top of furniture, doors and radiators if its weight allows. With a blanket, a hammock or a cushion, the rest area is perfect! Moreover, staircase libraries are real playgrounds for them. Ideally, give it a short run or install a sleeping area facing a window (always closed) so that he can observe the world. And if he always sleeps in the same places (like the closet), arrange them accordingly. On the other hand, don’t change the spaces too much by moving the furniture too often. This could disturb him.
And if you’re afraid of hair, compromise on your mania with protective covers. After all, you were the one who wanted a cat! If he can’t climb a little, he might be unhappy! However, an unhappy cat lacking exercise can become messy, sick, scratchy and stressed.
5) Prepare some games to stimulate your indoor cat
For its balance, the indoor cat needs always have access to games which will stimulate its predatory instinct, its physique and its intelligence. Indeed, your feline is a hunter at heart and he cannot go out hunting and having fun. Suddenly, he risk of going around in circles and going crazy with boredom ! Here, you can opt for an interactive toy that he can play alone, especially when you are away. Then complete with games that you can do together to stimulate him. The best is to have several in a drawer and alternate so that he doesn’t get tired of them.
6) Adopt a second cat to keep him company: a good idea to please your cat in an apartment?
Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut opinion on the matter. In fact, we often think we are doing the right thing by taking a little brother or sister. We imagine that like children, they will have fun together and that this will reduce boredom among the kitty. And of course, cohabitation can go well. Nevertheless, question your motivations carefully to know if it is for his good and not just to please YOU. This is important, because the cat is a territorial mammal which can not tolerate this intrusion of another into HIS space! As a result, he could find himself competing with him for limited resources : space, water, food, attention, etc. All of this can be stressful and cause behavioral problems (fights, scratching, increased urine marking, etc.). So, even a sociable cat can turn into a real dragon…In short, distrust! Weigh the pros and cons for a long time.
For the cat’s litter box, there are tips to combat odors. And if your four-legged ball of fur loses its hair, solutions also exist!
Ensuring the safety of a cat in an apartment: an important obligation!
Creating a safe environment is as important as ensuring it is nurturing and stimulating for your cat in an apartment. For combine well-being and safetythis requires special attention to its environment!
This mainly involves securing windows and balconies. In particular, you can install nets or fences on the windows and on the balcony to prevent the cat from falling. Even if you do not live on a very high floor and the risk of injury is not high, your animal not accustomed to the outdoors and the street may in fact suffer accidents or get lost. Also add specific safety devices to prevent your cat from getting stuck in tilting windows. And instead of the collar with a tag bearing your phone number and address that could strangle him, have him implanted an electronic chip to identify your cat in the event of loss.
Moreover, avoid dangerous plants. Indeed, certain indoor plants are toxic to cats (e.g. lily, philodendron, dieffenbachia). So replace them with non-toxic and safe plants. Additionally, hide or secure electrical wires and cables to prevent the cat from chewing them. Also put away small objects that could be swallowed inadvertently. Also keep the household products, medicines and other dangerous substances out of reachideally in closed cabinets.
Finally, let’s mention a few final special precautions. In the event of a change in environment (during moves or the introduction of new furniture), be sure to a smooth transition to avoid stress for the cat. And finally, if visitors come to visit you, make sure that the doors and windows remain securely closed to prevent running away, especially if your kitty gets stressed easily around strangers.