Dr. Laurel Davis, Asheville’s natural veterinarian, offers “Stories from a Holistic Veterinarian”, the blog of a holistic vet and “animal interpreter.” With a clinic in downtown Asheville, NC. Dr. Laurel also offers animal health, lifestyle and vaccination advice for cats, dogs and their human friends across the country.
Have a question for Dr. Laurel? Send it in.
Bring Out Their Inner Hunter: 7 Practical Ways to Entertain Your Indoor Cat
The feline you reside with is actually a wild animal.
When these affectionate beasts are limited to an indoor area, they require many considerations. Among the most important of these aspects of creating a cat-friendly home are movement and stimulation. Studies have shown when a cat is stimulated as if they are hunting, a brain chemical (dopamine) is released that creates a feeling of eager anticipation. Your involvement will make the difference between a content, well-adjusted cat and a despondent, probably overweight, muddled mouser.
I hope you enjoy these tips to make you, and your pint-sized tiger, even happier.
Tips from Asheville’s Natural Veterinarian: Bring Out Your Indoor Cat’s Inner Hunter!
- Water fountains can provide entertainment and aerated hydration similar to the outdoors for your indoor cat. Try to obtain a fountain made out of stainless steel or ceramic. Plastics are known to leach toxins when submerged over time.
- Environmental stimulation via cat trees or other perching seats is essential. Felines are drawn to vantage points because of their heritage as both predator and prey. Catification: Designing a Happy and Stylish Home for Your Cat (and You!) by Jackson Galaxy and Kate Benjamin will keep you entertained and give you gobs of creative ideas.
- Not every indoor cat is an ‘UP’ cat. Your feline may be a cat that likes to stick to the floor, they may adore the height of the back of your couch or they may make a point of getting as lofty as possible. Before you create your kitty’s climbing field, get to know their preferences!
- Nothing should be forced on your furry four-legged jewel because change can be unnerving for them. If you decide to purchase a climbing tree, for example, place it in an appropriate spot, and let your furry friend discover it on their own terms.
- Claws need to be maintained. Create a win/win situation by supplying ample stable scratching zones. Your strapping feline applies a great deal of pulling force to their favorite scratching areas. Not only does this action sharpen their claws and strengthen their feet, it provides the perfect chiropractic adjustment! Of course, depending on the cat, they may prefer horizontal, vertical or leaning scratch posts. Some are very particular about the texture involved. Sisal, carpet, actual logs with bark, fabric or cardboard may be favorite choices for your indoor cat. Experiment!
- Create kitty TV by placing bird feeders at strategic windows. Daydreams of birdie feathers in the mouth, I’m sure. They can ‘chatter’ away to their heart’s content! (However, if you allow your indoor cat outdoors, make sure the feeders are all out of claw distance!)
- Lucky is the indoor kitty that has a screened-in porch. Fresh air and breezes that delight inspire a feeling that they are a part of the great outdoors. If you own your own house or condo and are financially able to create this possibility, please do. This extension of their living space is surely divine.
Have you tried any of these tips? Let us know over on our Facebook page how much your cat is appreciating them! And if you’re looking for even more ways to make your home the ultimate playground for your cat, be sure to check out 10 tips for creating a cat-friendly house from Asheville’s natural veterinarian.
Shine on,
Dr. Laurel Davis is Asheville’s natural veterinarian, offering phone and Skype consultations for animal lovers everywhere. Call 828-254-2221 or order an Ask Dr. Laurel™ phone or Skype session or bring your dog or cat to her downtown Asheville, NC clinic. Read more patient stories.
Get to know Dr. Laurel by reading her blog.
Do you have a story about Dr. Laurel’s dog advice or how she helped your dog or cat? Please post your comment on our Facebook page or write a Google Review.
