Maine Coon Cats – Their View of the Outside World
When you first acquire your kitten the breeder who sold it to you will sometimes ask you to sign an agreement saying you will keep the cat Strictly indoors, and it is believed that indoor cats actually live longer and healthier lives.
However not everybody agrees with this and some people believe that it takes away that sense of freedom cats have to roam and climb and chase. Nevertheless the thinking behind keeping your cat indoors is very strong and so I’m glad to say that there is a compromise. You simply need to bring some of the great outdoors, indoors, for the benefit of your cat.
Now to start with hopefully you’ve got a window ledge inside your house and if you have then this is a great place for your cat to sit and watch the world go by, and this helps them to feel that they are actually almost outside. But if this is not good enough for you then let’s look at the second possibility.
If you have a screened in porch, or a porch that can be screened in, this is ideal for your Maine Coon. He will enjoy the fresh air, and the ability to see everything that is going on. Just make sure that he cannot get off of the porch, and that you provide a pet door for him to go in and out at will. Also note that because he is outdoors, fleas may become more of a problem.
I am sure that your cat would enjoy going for a good walk on the grass and this will not harm them at all. The only thing is you must make sure they have a proper harness and leash and that it is fixed.
Of course at first your cat may not be all that keen on using a harness and leash but persist with it and very soon he will associate the harness and lease with having a good time outdoors. And when you go out just remember that your cat may not necessarily want to walk. He may want to just stand or sit around and enjoy the grass or even roll around.
Make sure that your cat isnt bored indoors. Cats have a natural instinct to hunt and investigate. Give him things to do! Purchase toys that enable him to feel like he is chasing prey. Rub new toys in cat nip and hide them in places that your cat can access. Let him use his natural abilities.
Finally, make sure that you are providing the same nutrition and exercise opportunities indoors that are available outdoors. Select food that is specifically for indoor cats or food that is specific for Maine Coons. Purchase or build a cat tree. Maine Coons dont climb straight up very often, but are happy to work their way up at an angle, and this is good exercise for them.
Now I am sometimes asked if it is being unkind to keep your cat indoors and I my reply is always the same that no, it isn’t. Your cat was almost certainly born in the house or in a barn, and they just don’t know the difference, and as long as you are constantly keeping them amused In some way they will be more than happy to stay indoors and enjoy all the benefits.
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