Keeping cats indoors is one of the best things you can do for their health and safety. The outdoors poses various risks for your feline friend, including toxic plants, cars, wild animals, other cats and poisons. The good news is that indoor cats can be just as healthy and happy with a few modifications to your home, even if you live in an apartment.
If you currently have a cat or are considering owning a cat in an apartment, this guide is for you. It contains all our advice and tips on how to take care of a cat in an apartment. Having a happy cat in your home can relieve stress, boost your mood and even improve your health, so we think it’s worth the effort!
Our first tip for cat owners in apartments is to make your apartment cat-friendly. Your cat also lives in your space and should have things that make them happy, too. Even if you live in a relatively small apartment, there are plenty of things you can add to make your cat feel at home:
Cats can become lazy and bored if they don’t get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They may also start acting out by waking you up, scratching furniture, biting or not using their litter box. That’s why anyone living with a cat in an apartment must prioritize playing with their cat. Most cats love to play because it feels like hunting, and hunting is part of their natural instincts.
Purchase some quality, apartment-friendly cat toys — like wands, mice, laser pointers and toy mice — and spend time playing with your cat every day. A few small sessions a day are beneficial, but the ideal time depends on your cat’s age and activity level. You may also want to play with them just before bed to tire them out and encourage them to sleep throughout the night. Puzzle and feeding toys can also keep your cat engaged, especially when you need to leave them alone for a few hours.
Another important thing to consider for cats in apartments is where they go to the toilet. Factors like litter box quantity, placement, size and type can affect your cat’s happiness. To start, ensure you have sufficient litter boxes for your number of cats. Most experts recommend at least one box per cat, plus one extra. Opt for a litter box without a lid that’s one and a half times the length of your cat, and ensure they can get inside easily.
Next, place the boxes somewhere quiet with plenty of ventilation, like a bathroom or the corner of a room. If you have multiple litter boxes, place them in separate areas so your cats don’t get territorial over them. Fill them with a thick layer of unscented litter. Your cat might have a litter preference, so you could give them multiple options and see which one they like best.
Finally, keep the litter box clean by scooping it daily and washing it regularly.
While being indoors is safer for your cat, some things indoors can still pose a safety risk. Part of apartment cat care includes removing anything that can harm your cat and ensuring they can’t access unsafe items or areas. Try the following to make your home safe for cats:
Owning a cat in an apartment doesn’t mean they must never step foot outside again. Cats can safely explore the outdoors on a leash, just like dogs! However, the experience is slightly different, and it may not be right for every cat. If your kitty is not easily spooked and has shown interest in going outside, they may enjoy a walk.
Get them a sturdy harness and leash, and allow them to get used to the feeling of it indoors. Provide lots of treats and take it slowly. Once they’re walking around the house in their harness on a leash, you can take them outside for short walks. If your apartment building has an indoor corridor or small yard, that may be a good place to start. Let them explore and follow their lead — cats are much slower walkers than dogs.
If your cat doesn’t want to go outside, you can spend time teaching them tricks. Cats can learn to sit, high five and stand through repetition and rewards, just like dogs.
Are you looking for a cat-friendly rental home in Pennsylvania or Maryland? Start your search at Triple Crown Corporation. We have a variety of quality rental communities, most of which allow pets. Whether you’re looking for an apartment or a townhome, we can help you find what’s best for you and your feline friend.
All our rental communities are conveniently located and well-maintained, with stylish exteriors. Our rental process is quick and easy — simply use our online tool to look for your ideal home and fill out a rental application form. Got any questions? Contact our team today!
