10 tips for a cat in a flat

Can you keep a cat in a flat? The answer is: yes! You certainly can. Of course, it is true that it is a bit smaller and your cat will have less space to explore the world. That's why we wrote this blog, with 10 tips for keeping a cat in a flat.

Tip 1: Ensure privacy

The size of your flat doesn't matter much, but your cat needs to be able to retreat. A two-room flat is therefore ideal, but you can also put up a hutch, box or scratching barrel that only your cat has access to.

Tip 2: Scratching and hunting is a must

Scratching and hunting is also very important for an indoor cat. So a scratching post, scratching barrel or scratching board on the wall is essential. But also plenty of toys! Be careful with feathers/mice attached to a stick with a rope. A kitten can entangle itself in the rope, so only use these if you are there yourself!

Tip 3: Catnip!

Most cats absolutely love catnip. You can buy it as a herb, in a toy or as a spray. Spray it on their sleeping spots, toys, scratching posts, etc., and your cat will stay off your sofa. .

Tip 4: Screen off your balcony

There are countless tips online to let your cat in a flat go outside anyway. While not a requirement, it can be nice. Span a net over your balcony and your cat can chill outside undisturbed.

Tip 5: Keep that litter box clean

A clean litter box is always essential, but especially in a flat. To keep your cat happy, but also to avoid nasty smells in your flat.

Tip 6: Feed and water bowls in different places

And away from the litter box! Cats are a bit pickier than dogs, so it is a good idea to put food and water in different places. If your cat doesn't drink a lot of water (they are a bit known for that), you can also think about a water fountain. That will make it just a bit more fun!

Tip 7: Create lying areas in height

Cats like to sit ‘up high’. What you can do is fix some sturdy shelves to a wall, so your cat can sit and lie down up high (and look down on you).

Tip 8: Start with a kitten

Moving an adult cat from a house with lots of space to a flat with less space can cause problems. A kitten in a flat is not used to anything else. It always works better and the kitten will feel more at ease.

Tip 9: Ability to look outside

That's a very important one though! Even if the cat cannot go outside, they are always the curious neighbours who like to look outside and find it interesting what is going on outside. Therefore, make sure your cat has the opportunity to look outside.

Tip 10: Play, play and play again!

Play with your cat daily. Just a mouse or something else is not enough. It doesn't have to be hours either, a few minutes is often enough.