To keep an indoor cat?

[AnneNonimous]

DS and I have lived in our new flat for a few months now, and as a person that has always had cats I feel that's what's missing! I'd love to get a kitten for us but I don't have a garden so would need to keep it inside with a tray. I know people do this so I'm just wondering if people thinks it's fair? And I'd be very interested to hear from people who have inside cats and how they keep them happy and healthy.

TIA

We always had indoor cats when I was a child. Where I'm from, people generally kept their cats indoors.

They never had a problem with it. They didn't like going outdoors; no worries about them trying to bolt through legs or whatever.

It's possible.

I wish my little cat would stay indoors. We managed it for her first year but she goes out now.

I seriously dread even thinking about the road as we lost 2 kittens a few years ago and it was horrible.

As others have said I guess it can work with the right cat.

My two kittens (must start calling them cats, they are one tomorrow) are not at all keen on the idea of Outside. They are only willing to venture into the garden because I am there & they spend the few minutes that's the most they've ever tolerated at a time cowering on the ground or shivering violently in my arms.

I'm still hoping that nicer weather will persuade them that Out is a place they might like to consider. I do wonder, though, if there's a Scary Smell in our garden: it is fox central after dark & I've noticed the local cat population have started speeding across the fencetops rather than strolling through the garden: is that possible?

What my two seem to love best is snuggling on my bed with me. They have been known to try to hide my clothes when I'm in the shower before going out; and they routinely beat up my rucksack, shoes & coat. So in their case, not forcing them outside more often seems a definite kindness.

Indoor vs Outdoor is very definitely something that should be considered on a cat-by-cat basis, so it would be best to get a feline friend (or two) from a rescue who can advise you as to suitable Indoor Cats.

I have two sphynx cats. They would be die of the cold if they went out. They also get sunburn in the summer. They are both extremely happy and healthy cats who have the run of the house. They show no interest in going out and they will remain house cats. Those who think it is cruel needs to see them.. Being inside doesn't suit every breed but for others they prefer it.