Depressed cat

[KathyS]

My indoor cat seems to be depressed and bored as he does not want to play with the puppy anymore. He has a good appetite and acts stimulated after a while when I put balls out, toys out and rattle in front of him, but then he goes to the window and looks out like he wishes he were outside. The dog goes outside for potty and my other cat has limited hours outside or she goes nuts. Should I be keeping the other cat inside because of this? Usually I let her outside at night when he is not looking. but at some point he sees her come inside. He can't go out because he runs to the neighbors and eats all sorts of junk food and gets in fights. Please advise. thank you!

 

[Dr. Jeff]

he goes to the window and looks out like he wishes he were outside.

How about a catio like:

https://www.chewy.com/timhaka-weatherproof-catio-outdoor/dp/2093134

Should I be keeping the other cat inside because of this?

If she loves going out, then no.

 

[Dr. Christina]

Like with children of different needs - rely on your creativity. maybe train this one to a harness. Use clicker training to teach to come. Try telling her the boundaries and reward her when she stops at the edge of your yard (or hire an animal communicator to try). Discover what brings her great joy - since not the toys anymore, what about mind games, boxes, chase, find the food, chase the food (Julia Child had a brussel sprout on the end of a string).

Feed her high value treats often during the day so she does not want to eat the neighbor's food.

Just a few ideas - let us know what works.

Dr. Christina