How to Have Cats Adapt From Outdoor to Indoor

Most house cats enjoy loving interaction with humans, but if you're trying to rescue a feral cat, whether from a shelter or on your own, you'll probably need lots of patience. Some outdoor cats have a very difficult time adapting, but with patience, you may well successfully convert them. Cats that have survived outside for any length of time are rightfully wary and have probably learned that trusting is a bad, often dangerous, weakness. As a result, you will have to earn your cat's confidence.

Things You'll Need

  • Litter box
  • Kitty litter
  • Toys
  • Cat food
  • Water
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1
      Cats love the outdoors, so it is important to make the indoor environment attractive.

      Take your new outdoor cat to the vet to receive a rabies vaccination as well as a complete physical, including tests for feline distemper, feline leukemia, FIV, worms and other maladies. The vet also determines if the cat requires neutering or spaying. It's especially key to neuter male cats, because when you bring them inside they tend to mark their territory by spraying urine. They also continually clamor to get outside to mate. Once neutered, they tend to calm down and become happier indoors.

    • 2
      Spending time with a new cat allows it to socialize at its own pace.

      Create a safe, appealing area in your home for the new cat. This is most important if you have other animals, especially other cats, in the house. Set aside one room for the newbie. Put a cat box, stimulating toys, food and water in the room, and close the door. Let the cat familiarize itself with the small space. Allow it and other animals in the house to get to know each other through the door, by scent and perhaps a paw under the door occasionally.

    • 3
      Many cats enjoy playing with toys.

      Visit the new cat often to let it get used to you. Play with and groom your cat in the secure area for at least a week before opening the door. Once open, let it explore the rest of the house without any possible threats present. That includes other animals, small children or loud noises. Allow the cat to investigate every nook and cranny to learn where everything is and to make sure there is no danger.

    • 4
      Cats will sleep most anywhere, but many prefer a warm, soft place to snooze.

      Interact with your new cat often. Stroke it, talk softly to it and play with it often. Make sure water and food are readily available and that the cat has a safe, soft place to take naps. Kitty treats are especially good for helping to train a cat to come to you.