Indoor cats may live safer lives than their outdoor counterparts — but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to health problems. From dental disease to obesity and boredom-related stress, there are real challenges to keeping a house cat genuinely healthy and happy.
At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre, we see indoor cats regularly with conditions that could have been caught earlier or prevented entirely. Here’s our practical checklist for keeping your indoor cat thriving.
Your Indoor Cat Health Checklist
🦷 Dental Health
Dental disease is one of the most common conditions we see in indoor cats — and one of the most frequently overlooked. Many cats show no obvious signs until the disease is quite advanced. Watch for bad breath, drooling, reluctance to eat hard food, or pawing at the mouth.
🦓 Flea & Parasite Prevention
Yes — indoor cats can still get fleas and worms. Parasites are brought in on clothing, shoes, other pets, and occasionally on visiting animals. Untreated, they can cause weight loss, skin irritation, anaemia, and significant discomfort. Stay on a regular, vet-recommended prevention programme.
⚖️ Weight & Nutrition
Indoor cats burn fewer calories than their outdoor counterparts and can easily become overweight without careful feeding and regular activity. Excess weight raises the risk of diabetes, arthritis, and liver disease. Use measured portions, choose an appropriate life-stage diet, and get regular weight checks with our nurse team.
🧠 Enrichment
Boredom and under-stimulation cause real stress in cats — and stress often manifests as overgrooming, aggression, or inappropriate toileting. Rotate toys, use puzzle feeders, and provide climbing and hiding spaces.
🚽 Litter Tray Hygiene
Changes in toileting habits — straining, blood in urine, or going outside the tray — can indicate urinary infections, stress, or kidney disease. Keep trays clean and observe regularly.
💉 Routine Vet Visits
Even if they seem fine, your cat still needs annual vaccinations, health screenings, and physical examinations. Many conditions are undetectable at home but visible to a vet on examination.
Since 2024, microchipping has been a legal requirement for cats in England — not just dogs. If your indoor cat isn’t microchipped, it’s a quick, simple procedure we can carry out for just £20 at Paws & Co.
Book Your Cat’s Health Check
Whether it’s a first visit or a long-overdue check-up, our team will give your cat a thorough examination and discuss their individual needs. No fuss, no pressure — just straightforward care.