The 5 Best Cat Breeds for Indoor Living
Contrary to popular belief, cats make great companions. Once they’ve chosen their person, cats can be caring, cuddly, and affectionate toward their owners. They’re also an excellent choice for people who want a pet but don’t have the availability to take on a more time-consuming pet like a dog. While it may be true that some cats are meant for the outdoors, indoor cats are a popular choice among homeowners who want to make sure that their kitties are safe at all times. If you’ve got a kitty and are deciding whether or to let them outside, keep on reading!
Is it Better to Keep My Cat Inside?
Are you deciding between raising your kitten as an indoor or outdoor cat? It can be tempting to let your cat outside, especially if you feel like they’re missing out on something by not being allowed out of the house. But consider the benefits of keeping a cat inside. Indoor cats tend to live longer, contract fewer diseases, and live an overall healthier life. If you want to give your house cat a taste of the outdoors, veterinarians recommend that you keep your feline confined by using a leash or an enclosed outdoor space.
Top 5 Cat Breeds for Living Indoors
Most cats will be just fine living indoors if you provide them with enough stimulation and love. Even so, some breeds simply do better living indoors than others. Here are the top 5 best cat breeds for living inside:
Ragdoll Cat: Ragdoll cats get their name because of their beautiful and silky long-haired coats. These cats are sweet and affectionate, happy to greet their owners when they come home and spend the rest of the night snuggling.
Siamese Cat: These gorgeous cats are known to follow their owners around and talk to them. They’re very playful and require more attention than your average cat. That being said, if you spend a lot of time out of the house, a Siamese might not be the right breed for you.
Sphynx Cat: These hairless cats are super affectionate and love snuggling up in their owners’ laps. They’re friendly, loving cats that will happily lounge around the house all day with you.
Scottish Fold Cat: Named for their folded ears, these kitties love people. They live for attention and are playful, expressive, and easy to get along with.
Mixed Breed: Mixed cat breeds have a variety of personalities, but with the right amount of love, toys, and treats, they’ll be perfectly happy to relax inside with you.
How to Keep an Indoor Cat Happy and Healthy
While indoor cats are less likely to catch an infectious disease from going outside, they are at risk of chronic illnesses like obesity and diabetes (and boredom). To keep your kitty active, entertained, and happy, you’ll need to make sure you provide them with lots of play time and chances for exercise. Figure out your cat’s favorite toys and dedicate some time throughout your day to play with your feline friend.