Cats kept indoors are safe from dogs, cars and snakes – and the wildlife is safe from them – but they are at risk of obesity, anxiety and boredom.

Canberra Cat Vet’s information night on Thursday 27th October at 6pm targets these problems. Supper is provided so let us know if you are coming on 6251 1444 or reception@canberracatvet.com.au so we have plenty for all! Location details on the invitation above.

Many cat carers choose to keep their cats indoors and the newer suburbs in the ACT require owners to contain their cats. While this is a great idea from a human and wildlife perspective it is frustrating to many cats who see themselves as cooped up tigers.

A confined cat will sometimes express its frustration and anxiety in behaviour that is not acceptable to humans. Frustrated or anxious cats toilet outside the litter box or become aggressive to other pets or even people in the household. Urinating on curtains, carpets, the laundry or clothes is a common feline response to confinement indoors. This behaviour escalates if not addressed early and many cats are rehomed or lose their lives because of an entirely normal feline response to an abnormal situation.

More laid back indoor cats eat too much because they are bored with life. Obesity is an ever increasing problem in the feline population as it is in the human population. A sedentary lifestyle coupled with overeating rapidly lead to obesity in cats as young as 4 months.

Intelligent cats – and whose cat is not intelligent?! -  become bored with restriction if not adequately challenged. A rotation of toys and humans who play or spend time with them help alleviate their boredom. Mobile and fixed feeding puzzles help conquer both boredom and obesity.