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I have a 7-month-old cat (Gandalf). He stayed at my parents’ house for 1.5 weeks and has been with me in a studio for 2.5 weeks. I’m not home most of the day and he gets lonely and bored. The adoption agency suggested he live with another cat, but it’s expensive to own another cat in my apt. My parents have three cats. One of them (Kenya) doesn’t like other cats. So I’m thinking I could swap them. Problem is Kenya (6 yrs) is used to going outside whenever. Advice to make them both happy?

I have a 7-month-old cat (Gandalf). He stayed at my parents’ house for 1.5 weeks and has been with me in a studio for 2.5 weeks. I’m not home most of the day and he gets lonely and bored. The adoption agency suggested he live with another cat, but it’s expensive to own another cat in my apt. My parents have three cats. One of them (Kenya) doesn’t like other cats. So I’m thinking I could swap them. Problem is Kenya (6 yrs) is used to going outside whenever. Advice to make them both happy?

Updated On January 21st, 2020

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 1 year old

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

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It sounds like this is not an easy situation. Some cats will not like being kept inside while others adjust easily. You won't know until you try. There are some things you can do which can benefit any cat (a bored cat and a cat adjusting to a new life style). Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play (really get him moving) and switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Try feeding him out of a food puzzle. Hide food for him to find. Provide a stand or resting place by a window so he can look outside. You may also try clicker training him for positive behavior. Here is a link about training cats: https://www.petcoach.co/article/can-i-train-my-cat/ Most cats response best to combination therapy. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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