Companion Animals

Indoor Cat Enrichment for Welfare

Indoor cats have significantly different welfare needs that require active management to prevent boredom and stress.

Key Facts

Indoor cats live longer but have higher rates of behavioural problems than outdoor cats
Feline idiopathic cystitis, a stress-related bladder condition, is more common in indoor cats
Cats need vertical space, hiding places, scratching posts, and interactive play opportunities
Window perches and bird feeders outside windows provide visual stimulation
Food puzzles and scatter feeding engage cats' natural hunting instincts

Welfare Considerations

Indoor cats can live full and happy lives but require environmental enrichment to meet their needs for hunting, climbing, scratching, and social interaction. Without adequate enrichment, indoor cats develop stress-related health problems and behavioural issues. Enrichment planning should be as fundamental as providing food and water.

What You Can Do

Provide at least one vertical climbing space such as a cat tree
Offer multiple hiding places including boxes, shelves, and tunnels
Play with your cat for at least 15 minutes twice daily using interactive toys
Feed from puzzles or scatter-fed portions to engage hunting behaviour
Consider adopting a second compatible cat for companionship if your lifestyle suits it