My Indoor Cat Is Obsessed With Going Outside: What Should I Do?

Indoor cats are often bored and lonely, so they love going outside. Some cats even become obsessed with going outside, stalking the door whenever they hear it open or trying to squeeze through any tiny opening they can find. 

But while some indoor cats enjoy a little playtime outdoors, others may develop serious health problems if they don’t get enough exercise. 

If you’re considering bringing your cat indoors, ensure he gets plenty of exercise by providing an enclosed area with a few toys and a scratching post for him to use.

Why Does My Cat Love Going Outside?

Indoor cats are often seen as lazy and uninterested in activities outside. However, some cats are obsessed with going outside and will do anything to get their paws on a bit of grass or a tree. 

Here are six reasons why indoor cats might be so interested in going outside:

1. Indoor cats may not have access to enough stimulation or activity inside. Some recommend providing your cat with toys, scratching posts, and a wall to climb that offers varied viewpoints.
2. Outdoor play may help relieve boredom or stress. When cats are allowed to run and play without restraint, it can help them release energy and improve their moods.
3. Outdoor spaces offer opportunities for socializing with other friendly pets or humans.
4. Indoors, a cat’s natural prey instincts may go unrealized. When exposed to the outdoors, they can satisfy these urges by hunting small prey or chasing birds.
5. Outdoor life provides new sights and smells that can be addictive for some cats.
6. Enjoy the attention they receive when they are out in public. They may get lots of attention from people and other animals, making them feel good.

Regardless of why your cat loves spending time outside, keeping them safe while they’re away from home is important.

The Benefits of Letting Your Cat Go Outside

Many people believe that cats are naturally lazy creatures and do not enjoy spending time outside. Some cat owners even keep their cats inside to prevent them from getting a tan! 

However, there are many benefits to letting your cat go outside.

1. Cats can use their natural hunting instincts to track down prey, which can help keep them healthy.
2. They get exercise by chasing after small animals or playing in the yard.
3. They’ll be happier and healthier. Letting your cat roam free outdoors will increase their happiness levels, as they’ll have more opportunities to engage in play and exercise. Indoor cats tend to be obese due to lack of exercise, leading to health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Outdoor cats also tend to have lower cholesterol levels, thanks to their healthy fats from hunting prey.
4. Increased activity and mental stimulation. Spending time outside with your cat effectively increases their activity level and stimulates their mental health. Letting them run and play helps keep them healthy, physically active, mentally stimulated, and content.

The Risks of Leaving Your Cat Outside

Many cat owners who keep their cats indoors may be surprised to learn that many cats enjoy spending time outside. Some cats may even prefer to go outside over being kept inside. 

However, there are many risks associated with leaving your cat outside, and it’s important to weigh the benefits of letting your cat out against the risks. Here are just a few risks of leaving your cat outside:

1. Your cat could get lost or stolen.
2. They could get hit by a car or animal or fall prey to parasites or illnesses.
3. They could be attacked by another animal or wind up in a shelter where they may be euthanized.
4. Cats can suffer from anxiety if left alone for long periods, leading to behavioral issues.

Tips for Keeping Your Cat Safe When They Go Outside

If you have an indoor cat, you may wonder why they insist on going outside. You can do a few things to help keep your cat safe when they go outside.

1. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water, food, and a litter box.
2. Be sure to supervise them at all times, and ensure they don’t get too close to any dangerous animals or plants.
3. Provide them with plenty of toys and scratching posts to keep them amused while out and about.
4. Be sure to keep an eye on them if they get lost or injured – call your veterinarian immediately if something happens.

How to Encourage Your Indoor Cat to Stay Inside

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Many people think that cats are naturally outdoorsy creatures and need to be allowed a lot of freedom to run and play. 

However, indoor cats can also be happy and content inhabitants of a home if their owners take some simple steps to encourage them to stay inside. Here are four tips for encouraging your cat to stay inside:

1. Keep the cat’s environment clean and tidy. This will help decrease the cat’s natural desire to explore and make them feel comfortable in their surroundings.
2. Provide plenty of toys and activities for your cat to keep them entertained indoors. This will help keep them from feeling restless and bored, leading to destructive behavior.
3. Make sure there are no open windows or doors leading outside, as cats are naturally drawn to these sources of stimulation. If possible, close any spaces where the cat can escape (such as behind furniture) using sturdy latches or door seals.
4. Make sure there is enough food and water available at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Cats need a diet that includes both meat and vegetables, so providing them with regular meals will help discourage them from exploring outside their home.

Conclusion

Indoor cats are often obsessed with going outside, but this shouldn’t be cause for alarm. It’s simply a sign that they enjoy the company of others and would benefit from socialization. 

If your cat enjoys spending time indoors, provide plenty of toys and enrichment to keep them stimulated and happy.