The #1 Reason Your Indoor Cat Feels Stuck
Most indoor cats aren’t lacking love—they’re lacking choices. Here’s how to give yours more freedom, safely.
Hey Whisker Crew,
Let’s be honest—when we hear the word adventure, we usually think of a cat with a GoPro climbing a mountain or kayaking on a glassy lake. And yes, some cats love that kind of thing (Laura’s cat Travis might be one of them). But this week’s guest reminded me that adventure can be as simple as moving a scratching post or cracking open a closet door.
Laura Moss, founder of AdventureCats.org, joined me on the Golden Whiskers Podcast to share what real feline adventure looks like—and why our cats need it more than we think.
“Every cat is an adventure cat. It just depends what kind of adventure they want to partake in.”
— Laura Moss
In this 9-minute clip from our conversation, we talk about:
How to slowly and safely introduce a cat to harness training
What it means to let your cat define adventure
The surprising story of moving three cats from Atlanta to London
And why giving cats more freedom, more choice, and more stimulation matters just as much indoors as it does outside
Whether your cat’s idea of a thrill is a new hiking trail—or a new towel on the floor—this episode will shift how you think about “enrichment.”
🎧 Listen to the clip here
✅ What to Watch For
One of the biggest takeaways from this segment is simple, but powerful:
🟡 Adventure starts with choice.
Just like people, cats have personalities. Some love attention and novelty. Others prefer routine, safety, and a little quiet time on the windowsill.
Laura reminded me that adventure doesn’t have to mean outside. It means giving your cat the freedom to explore their world—on their own terms.
That could be:
A garden visit with a harness
A quiet stroll in a pet stroller
Sniffing fresh leaves in the bathtub
Or just watching the wind from behind a screen
“So much about adventure is giving cats choices… Do you want to go outside? Do you enjoy watching it from the window?” — Laura Moss
Another big takeaway? Don’t rush the process.
Training takes time. Exploration takes trust. And forcing your cat into something they’re not ready for can backfire—on their wellbeing and your bond.
Adventure should expand your cat’s confidence, not shake it.
✅ Laura’s Action Steps for Cat Parents
Here’s what Laura recommends for introducing enrichment and adventure into your cat’s life, safely and respectfully:
1. Start Harness Training Indoors
Lay the harness near your cat and pair it with treats or toys. Build positive associations slowly—before ever clipping it on.
2. Use High-Value Rewards
Laura used her cats’ favorite treats and toys to make each step of the process enjoyable and stress-free.
3. Let Your Cat Set the Pace
Whether it’s exploring the yard or sniffing a backpack, let your cat make the first move. Never force.
4. Teach Recall Early
Yes, cats can learn it! Laura’s cats know how to come when called—a skill that’s essential if your cat ever slips out or off leash.
5. Always Bring a Safe Space Outside
If you go outdoors, have a backpack or carrier nearby so your cat can retreat to a place they trust.
6. Respect Their Preferences
Some cats love hiking. Others just want to chase the garden hose water (like Laura’s cat Siri). It all counts.
7. Redefine Adventure at Home
Even indoor cats need stimulation. A closet door left open, a new perch, or a window breeze can be their version of “outdoor magic.”
🧡 What I’m Trying with Niko & Milo
After this conversation with Laura, I’ve been thinking a lot about how “adventure” can look different for every cat—and how it often starts with just giving them a little more say in their day.
This week, I’m:
Leaving a few new items in their space—like a basket of towels they’ve never explored
Creating more safe “yes zones” in my apartment where they can jump, perch, and observe
Paying closer attention to what they initiate—when they’re curious, when they back off, and what sparks that tail-flick of excitement
No big gear. No grand outings. Just quiet observation and a little more freedom.
And honestly? That might be all the adventure they need right now.
🐱 This Week’s Cattitude Prompt:
What kind of adventure would your cat choose if you let them decide?
Try one of these:
Place a new scent or texture in their space (leaf, branch, laundry)
Introduce a harness—but don’t put it on yet
Create a little hideaway: a paper bag tunnel or open closet
Watch how they explore, and follow their lead
Let me know what you try—and what your cat teaches you.
🎧 Listen to this week’s episode:
“Your Cat Is Bored — Here’s Why They Need More Adventure” with Laura Moss
👉 Click here to listen to the full interview.
Or search “Golden Whiskers” on your favorite podcast app.
Thanks for being here. Thanks for giving your cats the freedom to grow.
And thanks for being part of the Golden Whiskers family.
Until next time,
💛
Scott | Golden Whiskers 🐾