Do Indoor Cats Get Depressed?

Every cat owner knows the joy of being in the presence of a truly happy, serene cat. There is a lot of comfort and satisfaction gained from just being in the presence of our magical, majestic felines. We also know that a cat’s trust and love is hard-earned, never automatic, and once given, you feel very privileged.

So as cat owners, we feel obligated to ensure the environment we provide will keep our cats happy and satisfied. Many cat owners have recognised the dangers of allowing cats to roam free by keeping them indoors. But many also worry that keeping them inside could keep them from natural catty pleasures found in the great outdoors. 

So, in this blog, we are going to explore whether indoor cats get depressed and symptoms related to depression. Its important for cat owners to understand the cause of cat depression in cats so we can create more enriching environments that cater to our feline friends needs. We will share with you practical ways of ensuring that your indoor cat has a healthy and stimulating life and does not get depressed, even within the confines of our homes.

Are Cats Kept Indoor More Prone to Depression?

When we think about whether indoor cats get depressed, we are usually thinking that it’s because they are not allowed from going outside. But this view is probably a little too simplistic. As Ivana Crn points out, depression in cats is usually a result of sudden changes in the environment, being under stimulated or bored, pain or illness and their genetic temperament.

Similarly, Liz Bergstom from the Humane Society of The United States, an organisation dedicated to the respectful and humane treatment of animals, explicitly states that its a myth that indoor cats are more depressed, and that cat owners need to focus on more important aspects of their cat’s care such as playing with them, providing them with stimulating toys and ensuring they have opportunities to climb and run and stay physically active. 

The conclusion, therefore, is that cats do not become depressed simply because they are indoors.

Are Cat Certain Breeds More Prone to Depression?

Some cat breeds are known for their social natures and the strong bonds they make with their owners. Because of their affectionate natures, their curious and intelligent minds, and their need for interaction and companionship, these breeds may be more prone to depression or anxiety when left alone too long.

Siamese: Chatty, highly intelligent, form strong bonds with their owners.
Burmese: Intelligent, form dog-like attachments to their owners, gentle, love affection and pats.
Oriental Shorthair: Energetic, highly social, and interactive; doesn’t do well left alone.
Sphynx: Friendly and loving, follows you around the house, curious and intelligent.

What Are the Causes of Depression in Cats?

Depression in cats can arise from a variety of causes, often linked to changes in their environment, health issues, or emotional stressors. Understanding these factors is crucial for pet owners to recognise and address potential signs of depression in their feline companions. Here are some of the main causes of depression in cats:

1. Environmental changes – Any change to a cat’s routine or environment can cause stress, which can lead to depression. Moving house, renovations, or even changing furniture can disrupt a cat’s sense of safety and stability.
2. Social changes – Adding a new person into a cat’s world, a person leaving, or the addition of a new pet can all cause stress, which can lead to depression.
3. Schedule changes – Cats are creatures of habit, so changing feeding time or even getting a new job so you are not around at the same time can take your cat a while to get used to. 
4. Loss of a companion – Cats can form strong bonds with their owners and other pets. The loss of a loved one can be a distressing time for cats, leading to depression.
5. Boredom – Cat’s are curious and intelligent creatures, born to hunt and explore. Too much time spent alone without play and exercise can cause a cat to become depressed.
6. Pain or illness – Arthritis, injuries, urinary tract infections, or kidney disease can mean your cat is uncomfortable and in pain, which can lead to depression.
7. Separation anxiety – Being left alone for too long can lead to separation anxiety, which can become depression.

What are the Symptoms of Depression in Cats?

Cats can become depressed and will show signs, similar to ourselves. Usually, a cat’s depression will coincide with changes in the environment, routine, or lack of stimulation or companionship, so if any of these things have occurred, then you should consider depression could be a factor. However, as the following symptoms could also indicate underlying medical conditions, so it’s always a good idea to schedule a check-up with your vet.

Signs of depression in cats can include:

• Weight loss
• Changes in appetite
• Lack of interest in interaction
• Avoiding pats or affection
• Hiding
• Lack of grooming behaviours
• Low energy and increased sleep
• Uncharacteristic aggression
• Increase vocalisation
• Poor coat condition
• Eliminating outside of the litter tray
• Not interested in food

How Can You Prevent Depression in Indoor Cats?

The key to preventing depression in cats is to understand their nature and their needs and do your best to provide a healthy, stimulating environment. 

Firstly, cats need an outlet for their instinctual behaviours. Cats are born predators and are driven to develop physical skills that can help them be successful in their hunting. Cats want to climb, jump, explore, hide, run, pounce and survey their territories. Cats can easily practise all of these skills safely indoors, but it does require us to put a few things in place, such as:

• Climbing ramps
• Viewing platforms
• Toys that dispense treats when played with
• Hiding places for sleeping and ambushing
• Dangling strings
• Balls
• Scratching posts
• Cardboard boxes

Aim to provide your cat with the social contact level they prefer. Some cats love cuddles; others are content with an occasional scratch. It’s always best to follow your cat’s lead when determining how they prefer to socialise. 

Most cats love to play. Dangling a piece of string, chasing them around the house, and gently play-fighting is a great ways of keeping them physically active and mentally stimulated.

If you have the space to include it, an outdoor cat enclosure can allow your cat to experience the natural sensory world without compromising safety. Time spent outdoors provides stimulating sights, sounds and smells, as well as exposure to natural sunlight, which can help regulate a cat’s mood and sleep cycle.

Finally, cat’s have specific needs for toileting and feeding. Regular cleaning of their litter trays, access to fresh water and food, and keeping these two activities in separate areas of the house will reduce stress and anxiety. 

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Cat Is Depressed?

If you suspect your cat is depressed, it’s essential to take proactive steps to address their emotional well-being. Here’s a structured approach to help your feline friend:

1. Pinpoint the cause :

Has there been a change to their routine or environment? Are they getting enough interaction with you? Has there been a loss in the family? If you can identify the trigger for your cat’s depression, you can take steps to rectify the problem or give your cat extra love and attention to help them through the change.

2. Visit the vet :

Depression in cats could actually be a sign of underlying medical problems. A visit to the vet to rule out diseases, injuries, or pain is a great first step in managing your cat’s depression.

 3. Spend time with your cat :

If you think your cat is spending too much time on their own, then making the effort to spend quality time with your cat may be exactly what is needed to get them out of their funk.

4. Change the environment :

Take a look around and see what you can add into your cat’s world. Introduce some new toys, create some cool hiding places, install scratching posts, or turn up the heat if it’s cold. 

5. Provide a safe hiding space :

Cat’s love to hide away where they can feel safe, cosy and relaxed. Make sure your home has some hiding nooks where your cat can get some quality alone time.

6. Reduce any stressors :

Teach children how to approach cats respectfully, give them a safe place to hide when visitors arrive, make sure their litter tray is clean, and turn down the noise.

7. Get some new treats :

Beat boredom and stimulate those senses by introducing some new delicious treats. 

8. Get professional help :

If you have ruled out medical issues, tried any of the above suggestions, and your cat’s depressed mood persists, you may want to engage a professional animal behaviourist to help you understand and treat your cat. 

Creating a Safe Space to Prevent Cats from Depressions

In summary, while cat’s can indeed get depressed, understanding the causes and making simple changes to your cat’s environment can really help alleviate and prevent depression in cats. The best thing you can do for your cat is provide them with a sensory rich world that enables them to express their natural behaviours.

Toys and playtime are great tools for providing mental and physical stimulation for your cat, but in our busy lives we may not always have the time to give our cats all the attention they deserve.

A fantastic option, if your home has the space to provide it, is to get an outdoor cat enclosure. Even a small outdoor space can provide your cat with endless access to new sights, smells and sounds that will help those curious minds stay sharp and stimulated without any of the safety risks that come with allowing cats to free roam. Enriching your outdoor cat enclosure with climbing ramps, viewing platforms, shady areas to sleep in, dry areas to escape the rain, bushes to hide in and tree posts to keep those claws sharp can enrich your cat’s life in a natural, no effort needed way. 

If you’re considering enhancing your outdoor space with a cat enclosure and looking for a reliable cat netting enclosure expert in Perth, we can help you. With over three years of experience and over 70 five-star ratings, you can trust us to provide you with the best cat netting enclosure in Perth at competitive prices and expert knowledge to help make a practical and purpose-built cat enclosure for your home.

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