Companion Cat Indoor Enrichment Needs

Indoor cats require carefully designed environments to meet their behavioural needs, with inadequate enrichment linked to chronic stress, obesity, and problem behaviours.

Key Facts

An estimated 25-40% of UK cats are kept entirely indoors
Indoor cats are at higher risk of obesity due to reduced exercise opportunity
Conflict between cats is the most common welfare problem in multi-cat indoor households
Cats require vertical space, hiding places, scratch surfaces, and hunting simulation for positive welfare
Environmental enrichment in the form of puzzle feeders reduces food-related frustration and promotes natural foraging
Cats in inadequately enriched environments show higher rates of urine marking, aggression, and depression-like behaviours

Welfare Considerations

Indoor confinement is not inherently cruel for cats, but it creates an obligation to provide an enriched environment that meets their complex behavioural needs. Cats are skilled predators with strong motivation for stalking, chasing, pouncing, and biting behaviour - enrichment must channel these drives positively. Cat-proofed outdoor access via catios or cat-proof gardens offers significant welfare benefits for indoor-kept cats.

What You Can Do

Provide at least one scratching post per cat plus vertical climbing space
Use puzzle feeders rather than bowls to promote natural foraging behaviour
Install a catio or supervised outdoor access if fully indoor housing is necessary
Ensure multiple separated resources (food, water, litter, hiding spots) for multi-cat households
Consult a veterinary behaviourist if your indoor cat shows signs of stress or problem behaviour