Indoor Cat Health & Happiness (And How to Resign as Door Attendant)

Indoor cats are essentially tiny, unemployed roommates with sharp weapons. To keep them from turning your sofa into confetti, they need three things: routine, movement, and a space where they can judge you in peace.

Here is the no-nonsense guide to keeping them healthy and solving the "I’m tired of letting the cat in and out 40 times a day" problem.

The 60-Second "Vibe Check" (Health Scan) This isn't a vet visit, just a quick scan to make sure your roommate is operating within normal parameters. Do this while you’re petting them:

• Ribs: You should feel them with light pressure, but you shouldn't see them.

• Coat: Dandruff is out. Glossy is in.

• The Litter Box: If they’re straining, it’s not a power move—it’s a medical emergency. Go to the vet.

• The Rule: If something looks weird or painful, close Google and call the professionals.

Enrichment: Give Them a Job Most "behavioral issues" are actually just boredom. Your cat isn't plotting your demise (probably); they just have too much energy.

• Hunt Play: 10 minutes with a wand toy. Let them actually "kill" the toy at the end. It’s good for their ego.

• Go Vertical: Cats like looking down on you. Literally. Clear a shelf or get a tree.

• Foraging: Make them work for dinner. A puzzle feeder is great for keeping them busy while you watch Netflix.

The "High-ROI" Move: Stop Being a Doorman We’ve heard the feedback loud and clear: You don't want a "smart" door that requires a firmware update just to let the cat pee. You want something that works.

Setup 1: The "Dog-Proof" Zone (Litter & Food) The Problem: Your dog treats the litter box like an all-you-can-eat buffet ("kitty roca"—gross, we know) or inhales the expensive cat food. The Fix: A simple interior cat door on the laundry room or closet. What you need:

• A Simple 4-Way Lock: In, Out, Locked, Open. No Wi-Fi, no apps, no nonsense. Just a mechanical latch.

• A Quiet Flap: If the door makes a loud CLACK, the cat will suspect it’s a trap. Look for brush seals.

Setup 2: The "Safe Room" The Problem: Multi-pet chaos. The cat needs a break from the Golden Retriever’s toxic positivity. The Fix: Give the cat a VIP lounge. A simple door installation allows them to escape the chaos and nap in a sunbeam undisturbed.

Setup 3: The Great Outdoors (Controlled) The Problem: You want them to have fresh air, but you also want them to come home. The Fix: A Catio or enclosed run. The Gear: If you do go through an exterior wall, this is the one time tech might help. If you have neighborhood raccoons, a microchip door ensures you aren't hosting a trash panda dinner party. Otherwise? A solid weather-sealed flap is all you need.

The Installation: Yes, You Have to Cut a Hole We know. Taking a jigsaw to your door feels like a commitment.

• The Golden Rule: Measure the cat, not the vibes. Measure their shoulder width and the distance from the floor to their belly. That’s your cut height.

• Hollow Doors: Most interior doors are hollow. It’s fine, just be prepared to frame it out or use a door with a "self-framing" tunnel.

• Panic Button: If you’re staring at the saw and sweating, send us a photo of your door. We’ll tell you exactly what fits so you don't end up with a drafty hole and a confused cat.