How to make an Old outdoor cat indoors?

Question

Hey everyone.

So, we had these two cats for a while now. And they are outdoor cats. One of them has been indoors before, and one hasn't. We live on a pretty low traffic road, and they always stayed in the yard, so I figured they would be OK.

Sadly, this morning, one of them was ran over by a parked car. We rushed him to the Vet and he died in the car right next to me. So we want to bring the other one in so this tragedy doesn't repeat itself.

So, he's about 7, and hasn't been in a litter box for probably about 5 years now. How could I get him adjusted to make sure he uses it again? Any tips are appreciated.

Answer 1

First, get the cat vetted for infection, parasites, fleas, etc.  Then get a litter box and put a little litter in it and a lot of dirt from where he usually goes outdoors.

Confine the cat to one room for several days, preferably with a floor that is easy to clean if he decides to mark his territory, which he'll do if he is intact.

Clean the box daily, slowly adding more litter and less dirt. Give your fellow more room to roam if he behaves.  It is hard to make an indoor cat out of an outdoor cat.  You will need to be very patient and loving.

Answer 2

Scroll down on this website, there are some excellent articles on converting outdoor cats to indoor cats: http://www.geocities.com/heartland/point...

I'm so glad to hear you'll keep him safely indoors from now on, I'm terribly sorry about your other cat :(

Answer 3

Be sure to have two litter boxes - take lids off and put some catnip around the boxes to temp him to the area.  Is he neutered? If not - you may want to do so - non neutered males may spray liberally and often.  Good luck

Answer 4

Well first, if your cat ever asks to go outside never open the door.  usually owners cant resist their eyes and there devestating meows.  To get him used to the litterbox, put it infront of him and if he just stares at it all confused, put him in it a couple times a day.  put some treats around it so he gets attracted to it.  he will probably pee around the house because he really wants to go out and doesn't want to use the litterbox but he will get used to it.  good luck!