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.

As with everything in life, this thinking is not universal, and many people believe that by keeping your cat indoors you are depriving it of that sense of freedom. This of course is partly true but happily there is a way around it. You simply need to think outside the box and work out ways of bringing the outdoors, Indoors.

So let's start looking at things through a cat's eyes. To begin with you have probably got a window ledge in your house upon which your cat can sit, and they will probably do this hour after hour simply watching what is going on. But if you don't feel that this is quite enough then there is an alternative option.

Another possibility is to have a screened porch or a screen fixed around your porch. This is great because it will allow your cat to have a good view of the world and to enjoy the sun and fresh air without actually letting them out into the backyard or front yard. The only word of caution is to make sure that they cannot jump over the screening.

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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