Why doesn't my cat ever come in?

We got a cat from the rescue center about 8 weeks ago. He is a tabby, about five years old. he is very timid, but when he gets close is really loving. Except he never comes in anymore. We live near woods and this is obviously more exciting than being in our house, although we did initially try to give him some stimulation. He used to come inside and eat, but over the past 6 days has stopped doing this. i take his food outside and he will eat it outside but will not come in to eat it. In the last 4 weeks we acquired an older cat who comes and goes at will, but is, in the main more of an indoor cat. Can we make our outdoor cat more indoor?

Answer #1

I would say, honestly… A cat is the type of animal which is more apt to an attitude of their own preferential doings. Mainly because of their high intelligence, I have found in my own personal experiences. Each feline will choose more often what the like. This may be a part of his innateness as a cat. I had the same problem with one of mine; Real loving and affectionate when he is up on the porch. Yet, he is practically off in his own world. Totally owns the place when he feels like coming in, but stays a lot out of site, in the areas were you fear for his safety and well being.

Attempting to lure him in, may work in certain instances. However, I have found with mine. It doesn’t necessarily always keep them; And with not wanting to confine or limit their access or will. Especially when you get them in, and they obviously do not wish to say, be it pawing or meowing at the door or window. It is a very hard choice to decide whether to keep him in side, confined, or to let him wonder. So, roughly to answer you’re question. There really is no set way to make him an inside cat. Simply, keep him maintained, and love him! He knows that you do, I’m sure.

Answer #2

The cat is happy and independent and has probably has a distrust of humans. Just let it do what it wants and enjoy watching the cat enjoy it’s outdoor life. Meanwhile–if you can, install a cat door to a part of the house and leave it’s foodstuff inside by the door, so it will have to come inside to eat.

You may have things going on in your house it just doesn’t want to be around (loud noises, whatever).

More Like This
Advisor

Pets and Animals

Pet Care, Animal Behavior, Veterinary Medicine

Ask an advisor one-on-one!
Advisor

Worthy Cat

Pet Supplies, Subscription Boxes, Toys and Treats

Advisor

My Cat Backpack

Cat carriers and backpacks, Pet accessories, Pet travel supplies

Advisor

My Best Cat Food

Cat Food Reviews, Cat Care Tips, Cat Accessories

Advisor

Reigning Cats & Dogs

Pet Grooming, Pet Boarding, Kennel

Advisor

Pets Feed

Pets, Animals, Pet Care