Cats are curious animals, which is why they love to go outside where they can explore, play, and most importantly, socialize with other cats. But most of our feline friends are kept indoors since pet owners fear for their safety outside. While this may provide some solace to pet parents, previous research on the subject has shown that indoor pets may be more susceptible to illness and undesirable behavior than pets with both an indoor and an outdoor lifestyle.
Cats need to be able to spend some of their time outside, which is why having an outdoor enclosure is a good idea, especially for pet owners who are worried about their safety. Even though this might seem like a small thing, it could make all the difference in the world for your pet cat. Here are 5 benefits of having an enclosed outdoor cat area:
Safety and security
Allowing your cat to roam free outside can be worrisome for many reasons. They can be at risk of getting hit by a car, attacked by predators or other cats, or even getting lost. But with an outdoor enclosure, you can eliminate these risks and provide a safe place for your cat to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Building an outdoor enclosure can not only keep your pet safe, but it also gives them the opportunity to go outside. Plus, you won’t have to worry about keeping a constant eye on them while they’re outside, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on other things.
More movement and exercise
Cats are natural explorers, and having an outdoor enclosure gives them the opportunity to indulge in their curiosity and explore their surroundings. This can not only be mentally stimulating for your pet, but it also provides them with a great way to get some exercise. Whether they’re climbing, jumping, or chasing after toys, the physical activity they get in an outdoor enclosure can help improve their muscle tone, maintain a healthy weight, and improve their overall fitness. For indoor cats who may not have access to these natural behaviours, an outdoor enclosure can provide a much-needed outlet for their instincts and mental stimulation.
Mental stimulation
Indoor cats can often become bored or frustrated when cooped up indoors, which can lead to stress and behavioural problems. But with an outdoor enclosure, your pet can enjoy a change of scenery and experience new sights, sounds, and smells, which can help alleviate boredom and frustration. This can have a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being, and reduce their stress levels in the process. Whether they’re watching birds and chattering, smelling the scent of fresh flowers, or feeling the breeze on their fur, the sensory experiences they have in an outdoor enclosure can help keep their minds active and engaged.
Quiet, safe space for mental health
In addition to providing a change of scenery, outdoor enclosures also offer a quiet and peaceful space for your cat to relax and unwind. Cats are naturally curious and active, but they also need plenty of rest and relaxation to stay healthy and happy. An outdoor enclosure provides a safe and comfortable place for your cat to rest and recharge, away from the noise and distractions, especially if you have a large family.
It can also be great for your cat’s mental health. Being cooped up inside all day can be stressful for cats, especially those who are naturally curious and active. Providing them with an outdoor enclosure gives them a change of scenery and a chance to experience new sights, sounds, and smells. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a more enriching environment for your cat to thrive in.
Avoid destructive behavior indoors
When indoor cats become bored or frustrated, they may turn to destructive behaviours such as scratching furniture, rugs, carpets, and so on. This is because they are looking to release their pent-up energy and natural instincts. With access to an outdoor enclosure, indoor cats can have a new environment to explore and engage with, which can help reduce the likelihood of these destructive behaviours.
An outdoor enclosure allows your cat to climb, scratch and play to their hearts’ content without damaging your furniture or walls. This can help reduce their frustration levels and prevent destructive behaviours. An outdoor enclosure also provides your pet cat with more space to move around and explore, which helps prevent feelings of confinement and boredom. These are often some of the most common triggers for destructive behaviours. By providing your indoor cat with a new and exciting environment to explore, you can help keep them happy and healthy, as well as reduce the likelihood of destructive behaviours.
In conclusion, investing in an outdoor enclosure for your indoor cat can provide them with a wide range of benefits, including physical exercise, fresh air, mental stimulation, reduced destructive behaviour, and overall well-being. However, it’s important to remember that accidents and illnesses can still happen, even in a safe and controlled environment. This is why it’s also worth considering cat insurance to provide your feline friend with financial and medical protection in case of unexpected events.