Cats are naturally curious creatures with a strong instinct to explore. This is why many cats will scratch at doors and windows, or even try to escape if they want to go outside.
There are many reasons why your cat might want to go outside, including hunting, exploring, getting exercise, or socializing with other cats.
Why Does an Indoor Cat Always Want to Go Outside?
There are a few different reasons why cats may want to go outside, and it’s important to understand these motivations before letting your cat out unsupervised.
To explore their natural instincts
Cats are natural hunters and explorers, so it’s only natural that they would want to satisfy those urges by venturing outdoors.
To get some exercise
Even though cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, they still need to run around and burn off energy somehow. Going outside gives them the perfect opportunity to do just that.
To socialize
If you have an indoor-only cat, they likely don’t get much interaction with other felines.
Going outside lets them socialize with other cats, which is important for their mental health.
Adventure
One reason your cat may want to go outside is because they crave adventure.
Cats are natural explorers, and the great outdoors can be a very appealing place for them to satisfy their wanderlust.
If your cat is constantly trying to sneak out the door or jump out of windows, it’s likely because they want to see what’s beyond their home turf.
Enjoy Nature
Another possibility is that your cat simply enjoys being in nature. Fresh air and sunshine can be very calming and relaxing for cats, just like it is for us humans.
If your indoor kitty seems restless or anxious, spending some time outdoors in a safe environment may help them feel better.
Hunting
Of course, there’s also the possibility that your cat just wants access to more prey options. Hunting is a natural instinct for cats. If they’re not getting enough opportunities to hunt indoors, they may start looking elsewhere – including outside your door!
While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s important to make sure that your cat has plenty of other outlets for their hunting instincts, such as toys and puzzle feeders filled with small treats or kibble.
How Stop Cat From Wanting To Go Outside?
Stopping a cat from wanting to go outside needs to understand their natural instincts. Also needs to provide suitable alternatives, and create a safe and stimulating indoor environment.
Here are several methods to achieve this goal:
1. Understand Cat Behavior: Cats have a strong innate curiosity and desire to explore their surroundings. Recognizing this natural instinct is crucial in finding effective solutions. Cats might be drawn to outdoor stimuli like birds, insects, and scents.
2. Indoor Enrichment: Create a stimulating indoor environment to keep your cat engaged. Provide interactive toys, scratching posts, climbing structures, and puzzle feeders to mimic outdoor activities.
Engaging in playtime and mental challenges can reduce their desire to go outside.
3. Window Views: Place perches or platforms near windows to allow your cat to watch birds, traffic, or people. This can satisfy their curiosity without exposing them to outdoor dangers.
4. Play and Bonding: Allocate time for interactive play with your cat.
Regular play sessions not only provide exercise but also strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend.
5. Safe Outdoor Enclosures: Consider building or buying a cat enclosure or “catio” that provides a secure outdoor experience.
Cats can enjoy fresh air and sunlight without being exposed to hazards like traffic, predators, or toxins.
6. Indoor Plants: Introduce safe indoor plants that can provide a taste of nature. Cat grass or catnip can offer sensory stimulation and mimic the outdoor environment.
7. Distraction and Rewards: Whenever your cat shows signs of wanting to go outside, redirect their attention to a favorite toy or treat. This reinforces positive behavior indoors.
8. Secure Exits: Check that doors and windows are securely closed to prevent accidental escapes. Cats are experts at finding openings, so taking precautions is essential.
9. Neutering/Spaying: Unneutered cats might have a stronger urge to go outside due to hormonal changes. Neutering or spaying can reduce this drive and make indoor living more appealing.
10. Scent Control: Eliminate outdoor scents that might trigger your cat’s desire to go outside. Use scent diffusers or cleaning products to neutralize any outdoor smells coming indoors.
11. Training: Train your cat to respond to commands like “stay” or “come” to prevent them from dashing out when doors are opened. Positive reinforcement techniques work well for such training.
12. Feline Companion: If feasible, consider adopting another cat as a companion. Having a feline friend can help keep each other company and reduce the urge to explore outside.
13. Vet Consultation: If your cat’s desire to go outside becomes excessive, consult your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues and provide guidance on managing this behavior.
14. Positive Associations: Create positive associations with indoor spaces. Place cozy beds, hiding spots, and comfortable resting areas throughout the house.
15. Consistency: Be consistent in providing attention, playtime, and mental stimulation. A predictable routine can help your cat feel content and less inclined to venture outside.
Conclusion
Your indoor cat may seem content living a life of luxury, but there’s a good chance they’re secretly longing for the outdoors. Ultimately, only you know your cat best and whether or not letting them go outside is right for them.
If you do decide to let them venture outdoors from time to time, be sure to closely supervise them and provide a safe way for them to get back inside when they’re ready.
His professional interests include humane education, ethics, small animal behavior, and veterinary. As a pet lover from school life, having grown up with two cats and a dog. If he isn’t spending time with his friends and family, Justin enjoys traveling. Learn more about Justin here.
