Indoor moves prove easier than expected for most cats and owners
Edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew Zinin
Australian and New Zealand researchers surveyed 87 cat
owners, revealing that most who transitioned their pets to indoor living
reported the change was ultimately worthwhile, with the benefits to both cats
and owners outweighing the challenges.
The study, published in Applied Animal Behaviour
Science, found that while owners initially worried about their cat's
happiness and behavior, more than two-thirds said the process was easier than
expected.
Lead author Dr. Julia Henning, from Adelaide University's
School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, said the findings challenge the
perception that cats cannot adapt to an indoor lifestyle.
"Many people worry that keeping a cat indoors will be
stressful for their cat, but our findings suggest that the transition was often
easier than expected," Henning said.
"Owners certainly faced some challenges during the transition, particularly in the first few weeks, but most found these were temporary and that the long-term benefits far outweighed the difficulties."
The research found cat safety was the strongest motivation
for moving cats indoors, with owners concerned about traffic, attacks by other
animals, disease, parasites, poisoning and cats' threats to local wildlife,
particularly birds. After the transition, these same issues were overwhelmingly
cited as the greatest benefits, alongside improved peace of mind.
Owners also reported being better able to monitor their
cat's health, spending more quality time with their pet and, in many cases,
experiencing closer bonds with their cats.
The study found approximately half of the cats adjusted to
indoor living within a matter of weeks, while younger cats generally adapted
more quickly than older animals.
However, the research also identified several common
challenges. Cats were more vocal, scratched at doors and windows, or appeared
frustrated during the adjustment period. Owners also reported concerns about
providing enough environmental enrichment, maintaining litter boxes and
preventing weight gain.
Moving cats indoors increased some costs (including food,
litter and household modifications); however, veterinary costs decreased over
time because cats faced fewer injuries and health risks associated with
roaming.
Many owners described feelings of guilt about restricting
their cat's freedom, despite believing they were making the safest decision for
their pet. Others worried their cat might become bored or unhappy indoors.
Senior author Dr. Susan Hazel, from Adelaide University,
said these findings highlight the importance of supporting both pets and their
owners.
"Keeping cats indoors offers significant benefits for
their safety and welfare, but successful transitions depend on supporting
owners as much as their cats," Hazel said.
"Our research shows that owners often need reassurance
that the behaviors they see during the transition are temporary and that there
are practical strategies—such as providing climbing spaces, scratching posts,
toys and opportunities for play—that can help cats adapt successfully."
The study also found that transitioning cats indoors was
often prompted by unexpected events, including injuries, illness, moving or
sudden safety concerns. More than one-third of owners reported having little or
no time to prepare, while almost half made no preparations before the
transition.
Despite this, most owners still described the experience as
easier than anticipated.
Researchers say the findings highlight the need for readily
accessible information and practical resources to help owners make the
transition successfully, particularly when circumstances change unexpectedly.
Publication details
Julia S.L. Henning et al, Owner-reported experiences of
transitioning cats from outdoor to indoor living, Applied Animal
Behaviour Science (2026). DOI:
10.1016/j.applanim.2026.107120
Journal information: Applied
Animal Behaviour Science
Sadie Harley:BSc Life Sciences & Ecology. Microbiology lab background with pharmaceutical news experience in oil, gas, and renewable industries. Full profile →
Andrew Zinin: Master's in physics with research experience. Long-time science news enthusiast. Plays key role in Science X's editorial success. Full profile →
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