Things You'll Need
- Indoor Cat Food
- Cat Litter
- Cat Treats
- Cat Toys
- Collar
- Identification Tag
- Scratching Post
Instructions
Feeding &Grooming an Indoor Cat
Feed your cat "Indoor Cat" food. This can be any brand so long as your cat seems to enjoy it. Be sure to measure the cat's daily food and feed according to package instructions. If your cat will eat it all in one sitting, split it up into 2-3 feedings per day.
Give your cat "Weight Control" formula or a special type of food if your vet asks you to do so. Cats can have a tendency to be overweight when they are indoors all the time. They do not get as much exercise.
Brush your cat. If you start when they are younger, they usually tend to at least tolerate it. Some even love it and will purr and roll over to show gratitude. Brushing also fends off hair balls and is absolutely necessary for long-haired cats.
Wash cat as needed. Use Cat Shampoo and stay away from their eyes. They do not like water, so do it only as needed or give them a sponge bath.
Feed your cat treats, especially as a reward for desired behavior. Use the tartar control treats to clean their teeth. Give them these treats according to their weight and package instructions.
Change the cat's water 3-4 times per week or if it gets dirty. You may want to purchase a self-watering and self-feeding station for the cat, especially if you are not home much or are busy.
Exercising, Identifying &Maintaining an Indoor Cat
Exercise your cat. Have him run around and chase a toy. You can either purchase a toy or use a home-made version such as the ring from a gallon of milk, paper bags, boxes, or small plastic balls. They also love string, but be sure to supervise them when playing so they do not become tangled. You can tie a string around a doorknob and let it hang so the cat can play whenever he feels like it. Provide a scratching post if your cat is not declawed, or a tower with shelves they can climb.
Change the cat litter box two times per week and scoop it out daily. If you have more than one cat, you will need to change more frequently, or even daily. Put a few boxes out to avoid accidents or if you have a multi-level home. Add litter box deodorizer at the bottom or baking soda for freshness and odor control.
In nicer weather, leave a window partially open so the cat can sit on the ledge. Just be sure the screens are secure and the cat cannot push his way out.
Have the number of your vet handy and know where you can take your cat if he gets sick after normal office hours.
Tag your cat. In other words, purchase a collar for him and put an identification tag on him with your name, address and phone number in case your indoor cat decides to venture outdoors. Wearing his collar all the time gets him used to having something around his neck.
Place a microchip in the cat for identification in case they get out and are lost. Pet stores, animal shelters and veterinarians will do this for an extra charge. This is optional but a sure fire way to identify a lost pet and get them back to their owners.