Keeping Your Indoor Cat Happy, Healthy and Sane.
There’s no doubt that an indoors-only lifestyle is the safest one for our companion cats. Automobiles, wild animals, malicious humans and infectious diseases are just a few of the dangers that outdoor cats dodge on a daily basis. And, those same outdoor cats cause the deaths of hundreds of thousands of songbirds and baby animals annually as they do “what comes naturally.”
A happy cat is visually stimulated and that can be difficult…
Responsible cat guardians know that for the safety of the cat and the environment, indoors is where it’s at. However, throughout thousands of years, our domestic cats have developed keen visual hunting skills, rich social relationships and basic feline needs. Placing our cats in even the most luxurious condo or home can be detrimental to their health if we don’t take it upon ourselves to make their environment enriching and cat-friendly. The following tips will help keep your kitty happy, healthy and stress-free:
(1.) Let Playtime Be Prey-time: A happy cat is visually stimulated and that can be difficult if you’re living 40 stories above the streets of Manhattan. Cats seem to fall into one of two hunting types: Some cats prefer to chase bird-like toys; others like those that resemble mice or rabbits. Purchase a few toys from each group and see which ones your cat is most interested in. Once you’ve figured out the type of toy that is most popular, buy several different ones and rotate them throughout the week. Avoid toys with easy-to-remove parts, as well as those with strings or ribbons, which can cause serious medical problems if swallowed. Large paper grocery bags, ping pong balls and crumpled wads of paper are very inexpensive, fun toys to add to your kitty’s toy collection, too.
(2.) Hand Your Kitty The Remote: Many cats enjoy watching videos that capture the sights and sounds of birds, squirrels, rabbits and fish. These videos are inexpensive and are sold in most large pet supermarkets. Some of my favorite pictures through the years have been of my patients watching their favorite television “shows”.
(3.) Put Your Cat on a Pedestal: Most cats naturally like to relax on a perch that is off the ground and provides some privacy. Cat trees or a comfy pillow placed on a high shelf can allow your “tiger” a place where they can get away from it all and relax. Ideally, this special spot should be away from heavily trafficked areas. Think of this as your kitty’s special room where he or she can “kick back” and get away from it all.
(4.) Make Kitty’s Playtime Your Time, Too: Having a basketful of toys sitting in a corner by itself isn’t stimulating enough for most cats. They need to be engaged. By you. While we’re all busy with work, school, children or home matters, take 15 or 20 minutes out of your morning or evening and actively play with your kitty. Not only will this time provide needed exercise for your favorite feline, but your bond with him or her will become stronger.
(5.) Give Your Cat A Job: Although most veterinarians recommend feeding cats a diet of low-carbohydrate food from a can, putting a few small kibbles into a Kitty Kong everyday allows your cat to become mentally engaged as he or she works the kibbles out of the toy. These Kongs are found in most large pet supermarkets.
(6.) Take a Deep Breath: Animals and humans alike produce pheromones, subtle aromatic chemicals that can signal relaxation, stress or fear. When cats mark furniture, walls (or even us) with their faces, they are depositing a “feel good” pheromone that is soothing and calming. There is now a synthetic facial marking pheromone that comes in plug-in diffusers, which you can use in the home. The subtle fragrance can’t be detected by humans, but the cats can detect its pleasing, stress-reducing aroma. These diffusers are available on-line, at some veterinary practices and where cat supplies are sold.
(7.) Get In a Daily Yoga Class: Scratching is a natural activity for cats that allows them to remove the cuticle from their nails, mark their territory and stretch. Sissal (rope) scratching posts are best. Make sure they are tall enough for the kitty to use and stable enough that they won’t be knocked over when in use. Some cats like to use scratching posts that lie on the floor.
(8.) Keep the Litter Box Pristine: There should be one more cat box than there are cats in the home. Cats generally prefer uncovered boxes that are large enough for them to comfortably turn around in. Scoop wastes daily and place the box in a quiet location.
(9.) Play Matchmaker: Although some cats prefer a solitary living arrangement, most enjoy the company of another cat with whom they can play, cuddle and “talk cat.” Shelters are overflowing with loving cats who are looking for that purr-fect, life-long home. Talk to your veterinarian about whether he or she believes that your kitty would benefit from having a feline friend.
(10.) Watch the Scale: We work late, come home tired and sometimes substitute food and treats for what our cats really want: A bit of our time. Some cats deal with boredom just like some people do and they overeat. Talk to your veterinarian about establishing a proper weight for your cat and feed only the amount of food necessary to maintain that weight. You can purchase a small scale at stores that have baby and infant departments and weigh your cats monthly (or more often, as your veterinarian suggests).
As you can see, with just a few additions to your household routine and some basic understanding of cat needs, it’s possible for your kitty to be active, trim and interested in his or her surroundings as he watches the world go by from the safety of your loving home.
#1 comment posted by John R. Hawes on 04/09
Dear Dr. Gasper. Have you ever encountered a cat found to be suffering from encephalitis that resulted in subsequent paralysis and partial atrophy in the appendicular musculature? My little orange female cat has distinct withering of the extensors and flexors of the hind legs. Her walking gait is awkward and she can not run or jump. She can climb the furniture using the strength in her front legs but it is a chore for her. I fear the tissue damage may be irreversable. This little cat is the most loving “spirit-filled” creature that has ever come into my life. I thought perhaps you might have some insights or suggestions. Thank you. John R. Hawes
#2 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 04/14
John—How was the diagnosis of encephalitis made in your kitty? What you are describing is more consistent with a spinal cord lesion. Please post back and I’ll help as I can.
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#3 comment posted by Holly Carpenter on 07/13
Dr. Gaspar.
My ftabby cat named Emily, has had problems with the base of her tail, all of her adult life. We were told, that it was from a calcium deposite, that appeared, after her tail healed. Aparentally as a kitten, she was swung around by her tail. She is in pain quite often, and it just puts me in great pain to see her unhappy. My father and I, just don’t have the money, to take her for a cortizone shot, like we have in the past. Is there any other way we can help her? Or is she going to have to stay in pain untill we can afford the shot? Or are their other shots? Please help me.
Secondly, I have noticed a product on the tv, called Dr. Frank’s All Natural Pain Releif for Dogs and Cats. Can that help my dear Emily? Please help me! Thanks so much---- Holly D. Carpenter
#4 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 07/13
Holly—I’ll certainly help you as I can. A few questions for you: What city/state do you live in? Could the “calcium deposit” be spinal arthritis? What type of symptoms does Emily exhibit? (Biting at the tail, chasing the tail, problems sitting, etc.)
Post back and I’ll help you as I can. I am unfamiliar with the product you described (although I will check it out). Let’s hold off on any nutraceutical or medication until I have a better idea from further information as to what may be the problem with Emily.
All my best,
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#5 comment posted by Holly Carpenter on 07/14
Dr Gaspar,
I originally received Emily cat in Texas, but she was diagnosed in Cody, Wyoming. Now days I live in Norfolk, Virginia.
The vet said she received the deposite from being carried by her tail, or having an injury. So, I don’t think it is spinal arthritus. But it could be? She was diagnosed about four years ago. Emily is 7 yrs old.
She has one major symptom, which happens once the cortizone has completly worn off, and that is that she constentally cleans the tail area, which makes the skin sore, and the fur thinner. I know it is not a skin problem, because the rest of her coat is lush.
Other then the licking, when the area is touched, she twitches her back. it is hard to put to words. The skin moves in a wave on her lower back. For some reason, when she is pet there, she also starts looking for something ( like a hand, or apendage) to lick. I’ve always wondered why.... Other then that, she sits fine, and runs around all the time. She dose not have any problems with balance. ---- I hope you can help me and Emily cat---------
Holly D. Carpenter ( who hopes to become a vet some day)
Age 14
Norfolk, VA
#6 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 07/14
Emily—A few thoughts: I am unfamiliar with the term “calcium deposits” and believe that this spinal arthritis or spondylosis. Repeated glucocorticoid (steroid) injections can cause big problems in certain cats, such as diabetes, so I would avoid these. There are two medications that I would discuss with the veterinarian: Adequan (a glucosoaminoglycan that you can learn to inject under the skin) and gabapentin (a wonderful medication for this type of “neuropathic” pain). I would recommend both together. I would not recommend the use if non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like Metacam, in Emily. These drugs can cause kidney problems and you do need to monitor cats in these medications carefully. I would make an appointment with a veterinarian in Norfolk and would ask them about Adequan and gabapentin. There is another product, Cosequin for Cats, that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. You can mix this in food. The Adequan and Cosequin can be ordered with a prescription from many on-line pharmacies and may save you substantial money.
I checked on the homeopathic on-line product and have a few concerns: There are no ingredients listed, it’s all testimonials, and Dr. Frank is a physician, not a veterinarian.
I wouldn’t recommend this product.
Michele Gaspar, DVM,DABVP (Feline)
#7 comment posted by Holly Carpenter on 07/14
Dr. Gaspar,
Thank you so much, I found the Cosequin online at Pet Smart. I will try to get my father to buy some, and see if it helps.
The calcium deposite was found with an ex-ray, and they appeared because of an injury.--- thanks again---
#8 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 07/14
I’m afraid that Cosequin alone won’t help much if she’s in that amount of discomfort, but it’s a first step. I hope your Dad can see how much you love Emily and will help you help her.
You’ll be a fabulous veterinarian, Holly. Study hard, get great grades in school, see about observing at a local veterinary hospital and one day maybe YOU will write this column!
All my best,
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#9 comment posted by nancy brisendine on 09/20
Dear Dr. Gaspar-What’s the healthiest way to treat or prevent hairballs?I’m currently using the otc stuff in a tube...but I don’t think it’s a good solution for long term.Vegetable oil or olive oil in their food?What do you suggest?Thank You,Nancy
#10 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 09/20
Hairballs are not normal in cats and aren’t due to a “grease deficiency.” If any of us were vomiting and went to our doctor, we wouldn’t expect to be told to go to the drugstore and get a big jar of petroleum jelly and take a few tablespoons a few times a week.
Cats are “designed” to eat a fair amount of hair : They groom themselves, they groom other cats and they eat furry things. In the normal cat digestive system, the fur goes from one end to the other effortlessly. Hairballs do not occur because the kitty has long hair, or he or she grooms alot, or the client just doesn’t brush the cat.
When food, fluid and/or hair are vomited, that means that there is a problem with intestinal motility. Inflammation of the intestinal tract most commonly drives this poor motility.
What to do? First, don’t use the hairball “remedies” and do not use mineral oil or vegetable oil—these can be aspirated into the lungs. Mineral oil is particularly dangerous and can cause a fatal pneumonia.
Some cats respond to a hypoallergenic diet. This is a diet that contains a protein (meat) source that your kitty has never eaten before and a carbohydrate source (starch) that hasn’t been in any of his or her diets. There are a number of prescription hypoallergenic diets on the market and your veterinarian can help you choose one to use.
When we do a food trial, we slowly introduce the new food over 7-10 days and then give the diet 8-12 weeks, to see if there is an improvement.
Some cats don’t respond to diet. These cats generally have more significant intestinal inflammation. For these cats, it is important to diagnose the underlying disease.
IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)—not IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)—is very common in cats. Patients with IBD can have vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, anorexia (complete loss of appetite) or constipation. Many of these cats have histories of life-long hairball vomiting.
It is important to diagnose IBD and treat it appropriately. Your veterinarian can help further with appropriate testing and medications.
I don’t recommend “hairball diets” which generally contain added fiber. As I’ve written previously, our cats have developed to eat a low-carb/low-fiber diet.
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#11 comment posted by LaBaum on 09/21
Dr. Gaspar,
Just a comment about your previous post about hairballs. I’m curious if there are alternatives to a hypoallergenic diet, since many cats are so picky with food, it would be upsetting to switch their food after having finally found the food they enjoy. I’ve read that eating catnip grass or other sort of plant alleviates and helps to break up hairballs. I also have read that having grass out for the cat to eat will aid with their digestion in general. Is there a type of catnip grass that you recommend, and that’s widely available? My cat, Lilah, doesn’t exhibit any signs of IBD, but she does cough up a hairball every few weeks or so. I’m reluctant to change her diet, so please let me know about the grass or other alternative hairball reduction methods.
Thanks,
Aimee
#12 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 09/21
Aimee—I certainly understand your concern. However, we need to realize that hairball vomiting isn’t normal. This chronic hairball vomiting is absolutely symptomatic for IBD.
Cat companions often don’t realize that hairball vomiting is significant and, unfortunately, many veterinarians erroneously believe that “cats naturally vomit.” I guarantee you that vomiting is not normal in cats. Hairball vomiting is not like the regurgitation of castings that the birds of prey do.
So… cat grass, petroleum jelly products, extra fiber don’t help with the underlying problem of inflammation.
I still think it’s possible to feed a hypoallergenic diet to most cats. There are plenty on the market. Like with most diets in cats, it’s trial and error.
In my practice (cat specialty and referral with a high GI disease patient load), cats with chronic hairball vomiting that is not addressed generally progress to more severe forms of the disease.
So… in the young cats it’s absolutely imperative that the diet is changed to something they enjoy eating and which is more in-line with their natural dietary inclinations.
What diet is your cat enjoying now?
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#13 comment posted by LaBaum on 09/21
Thanks for responding, Dr. Gaspar. My cat is currently enjoying Meow Mix Market Select wet food cups, along with Meow Mix dry food for between meals. I had previously tried Science Diet, but she hated it. Lilah is so particular about food, that she will only eat one flavor, “real salmon and ocean fish in gravy.” When the store runs out of this flavor, she won’t touch another flavor, so she ends up eating dry food until I can find the salmon flavor at another store. To be honest, I’m a bit skeptical about jumping to the conclusion of an IBD diagnosis. She doesn’t exhibit any of the other symptoms, as she has normal stool, normal eating behaviors, etc. However, if hairballs alone as a symptom is an early sign of more serious symptoms of IBD, then I’d be inclined to look into the hypoallergenic diet. Are there any resources you could share with me, so that I can read up on the condition and share them with Lilah’s veterinarian (who believes that some hairballs are normal)? Also, I’m just curious, why are hairballs so misunderstood by veterinarians? Is the research out there inconclusive, or correlational? Is this a topic that is highly disputed within the field?
#14 comment posted by SUSAN W GREY on 09/22
Dr Gasper,
A friend’s 1-year-old neutered male cat has begun an unusual habit ---- he will do anything to get to her or her husband’s cell phone charger WIRE and chew on it. He even went through her work tote bag just to find it and take it out and chew on it. He is not interested in any other wires. Do you have any idea why he is doing it? Is it harmful? He was found w/2 siblings when they were about 5 days old. They were bottlefed by a cat lover and when ready they were adopted, and she has had him since he was a baby.
Thank you.
Susan
#15 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 09/22
LaBaum: I would try to get your kitty switched to a better diet. Cats were never “designed” to eat fish and when fish sits prior to processing into cat food, it has the tendency to build up the histamine content. Histamine release can cause dilation of blood vessels, vomiting, etc.
As desert dwellers, our cats were meant to eat poultry, small mammals and lizards. While lizard-in-a-can isn’t available, it’s typically easy to switch cats over time to a poultry or rabbit diet. It’s often easier to start feeding a chicken and fish-flavored food and then gradually wean the kitties off the fish.
While transitioning, it’s critically important that cats eat well everyday, so that we avoid problems, such as fatty liver disease.
Fatty liver disease can develop rapidly when a cat either does not eat or eats a markedly reduced amount of food in a short amount of time.
I agree that some veterinarians erroneously believe that felines as a species vomit normally. As you know, I am a consultant on the Veterinary Information Network, a worldwide listserv for veterinarians, and myself (as well as the other seven Feline Internal Medicine consultants) do not believe that hairballs are normal.
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)
#16 comment posted by Michele Gaspar, DVM on 09/22
Susan : It’s not uncommon for cats who were bottle fed to develop oral fixations, including suckling on blankets, bed clothes—or their humans.
The best “treatment” here is to keep the items away from the cat. That means putting the wires (or other objects) where the kitten can’t get to them.
Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP (Feline)