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Will my cat be happy living indoors after being an outdoor cat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 6 months and 18 days old | 9 lbs

Hi, I'm thinking about changing my cat from a partially outdoor cat to a fully indoor cat. Do indoor cats live a happy life? Its ofcourse safer for them as it is also safer for humans when you stay home and avoid outdoor pollution and viruses and other dangers. But do they live a happy life?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 19th, 2018

Great question! I have always kept my cats as indoor only, and they are perfectly happy. I make sure they have enrichment in the form of toys, and I have a cat tree with platforms off the ground so they can climb up. I also keep it near a window so they can look out and lay in the sun. You can get window platforms for Raven to lie on and look out the window. It truly is safer for them to be indoors, and as long as you provide enrichment in the forms I recommended above, she will be happy. I hope this helps!

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