How to calm a cat that wants to go for a walk? - briefly
To calm a cat that wants to go for a walk, it is essential to redirect its attention and provide alternative stimulation. Offer your cat favorite toys or treats to distract it from the desire to explore outdoors. Additionally, ensure your home environment is engaging and enriching, with plenty of vertical space and hiding spots to mimic outdoor experiences.
How to calm a cat that wants to go for a walk? - in detail
Calming a cat that is eager to go for a walk can be challenging, but with the right approach and patience, it is possible. Cats are naturally curious and adventurous, so their desire to explore outdoors is understandable. However, allowing them to roam freely outside can pose risks such as traffic dangers, exposure to diseases, or getting lost. Here are some detailed steps you can take to calm your cat and satisfy its wanderlust in a safe manner:
Firstly, ensure that your cat has a comfortable and stimulating indoor environment. Cats need mental and physical stimulation, so providing them with toys, scratching posts, climbing shelves, and windows where they can observe the outdoors can help keep them engaged and content. Interactive toys and puzzles can also help to tire them out mentally, reducing their desire to go outside.
Secondly, establish a regular playtime routine with your cat. Spend at least 15-20 minutes each day playing with your cat using interactive toys such as feather wands or laser pointers. This not only helps to bond with your cat but also provides the physical exercise and mental stimulation they need.
Thirdly, consider creating a safe outdoor space for your cat. You can set up a secure catio or enclosed patio where your cat can enjoy the fresh air and sunlight without the risks of the open outdoors. Make sure the enclosure is escape-proof and includes comfortable resting areas, toys, and perhaps even some cat-safe plants to make it an appealing space for your feline friend.
Fourthly, desensitize your cat to the door. Many cats become agitated when they see you packing a bag or putting on shoes because they associate these actions with going outside. To break this association, practice opening and closing the door without leaving, rewarding your cat with treats and praise for remaining calm. Gradually increase the duration of these practice sessions until your cat is no longer bothered by the door being opened.
Fifthly, provide your cat with a view of the outdoors. If possible, place a comfortable chair or cat bed near a window where your cat can observe birds and other outdoor activities. This can satisfy their curiosity about the outdoors while keeping them safe indoors. You can also install a bird feeder outside the window to make it even more interesting for your cat.
Lastly, consider using calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or calming collars. These products release synthetic versions of natural calming hormones that cats produce when they feel safe and content. Placing these diffusers in areas where your cat likes to spend time can help reduce their anxiety and make them more likely to stay indoors.
In conclusion, calming a cat that wants to go for a walk involves creating a stimulating indoor environment, establishing a playtime routine, providing a safe outdoor space, desensitizing your cat to the door, offering a view of the outdoors, and using calming aids if necessary. By implementing these strategies, you can help your cat stay calm and content indoors while satisfying their natural curiosity about the outdoors.