How to give your indoor cat a taste of the wild

Spring is here. The birds are singing. The flowers are blooming. And your indoor cat shouldn’t miss out.

You don’t need a garden or a catio to give them a taste of the great outdoors. Here are three easy ways to bring spring inside —minus the muddy paws.

1. Grow an indoor jungle

If your cat is eyeing your houseplants like a salad bar, it’s time to give them a green space of their own. Try growing some cat-friendly plants they can sniff, roll in, or nibble on without worry.

Catnip: The classic. Grow fresh catnip in a sunny window and let your cat go wild. Just be prepared for zoomies.

Cat Grass: Oat, wheat, or barley grass gives your cat a safe, digestible green snack. Perfect for those “I must eat this” moments.

Spider Plant: Non-toxic. And fun to bat at. Just keep it somewhere sturdy. Because your cat will definitely try to knock it over.

Pro tip: Rotate plants in and out of your cat’s space to keep things exciting. And if they get too enthusiastic? Grow extras.

2. Open the Window to the Wild

Spring air is full of scents your cat craves—fresh grass, blooming flowers, and the occasional whiff of an unsuspecting pigeon. Let them take it all in with a safe, cat-friendly window setup.

Crack open a screened window: A gentle breeze will carry in all the best outdoor smells. Just double-check the screen is secure—no great escapes allowed.

Set up a bird-watching station: Place a comfy bed or cat tree near the window, and let the entertainment begin. Add a bird feeder outside if you want to make things extra exciting.

Sunbeam approved: If your cat loves lounging in the sun, move their favorite perch to catch those warm spring rays. Bonus points if it’s next to a window with a view.

3. Bring the Outdoors to Playtime

Not every cat wants to roll in dirt, but they all love a little adventure. Bring nature inside with new toys and experiences inspired by the wild.

Foraging fun: Sprinkle treats or kibble into a crumpled paper bag or cardboard box filled with leaves, shredded paper, or cat-safe herbs (like dried valerian or silver vine).

Bug-inspired toys: Feather wands, crinkly toys, and anything that flutters, scuttles, or dangles will make your cat feel like a fierce outdoor hunter.

The great indoors, upgraded: Rearrange furniture to create new climbing routes or build a DIY obstacle course with boxes and tunnels. A little change goes a long way in keeping things fresh.