Can a outdoor cat be changed to indoor and also get used to a harness for walks?

[cherbears]

I have to start walking cat with harness and leash in hallways and building and trying to harness my cat or lead her is a cat scratch fight!

I also wanted to change my cat to an indoor cat. She's been going outdoors for almost 4 years since we moved to city want her to change to not go out but meowing drives me crazy. I'm unable to go for frequent walks due to my health so want to keep the cat in. She does know how to use litter box.

Can an outdoor cat ever really become an indoor cat? Thanks

[Jade59]

Yes, all good suggestions.  A Cat Tree would be appreciated by kitty also...or a sill seat like Pip suggested.  Just as long as kitty can see what's going on out the window.  Even a short cat tree - one tall enough to see out the window is sufficient.  Very careful though if you're on a second or third floor with the window open.  Don't want kitty falling out the screen.  

Keeping the *harness* on (not leash) at all times is a great suggestion.  Our last kitty got used to it quickly, and yes, YOU follow kitty, not the other way around. lol

[evewisewoman]

Hello cherbears,

You say you want to change your outdoor cat into an indoor cat.
It's totally possible. We ( my husband and I ) adopted a male ginger cat
more than 1 year ago from a cat rescue organization. His previous owner
used to let him out. We don't let our precious cat outside. There are too
many dangers outside. So I applaud you for deciding to keep your cat
indoors where she will be safe. Our cat, Sammie, used to meow somewhat
to go outside. This has stopped. Now he's perfectly happy being inside.
He also has lots of toys to amuse himself. It's much safer for your darling
kitty to remain safe inside. Opus88 and Piparskeggr have made some
good suggestions too. Good luck with your kitty.

[Piparskeggr]

It also helps to have toys that can engage kitty's sense of curiosity, like a laser pointer.  My kitties love chasing the "red bug."

Also, a sill level seat by a window with a secure screen is good, too.  Kitty gets to sniff the breeze, watch bids go by...

[opus88]

to leash train an older cat takes alot of patience....if you do manage to get the harness(preferable to collars) on kitty than just leave it on and don't take it off except for grooming days...
also its very unlikely you'll ever 'train' a cat to walk along with you on a leash like a dog does (some do but not common)....
My one kitty is leash trained...but I don't walk him, HE walks me...meaning he walks I follow...lol.
and only in the quiet and privacy of our back yard for he is too skittish to be walking out in public like down the sidewalk like a dog would...good luck:)

yes it is possible to keep a formerly outdoors cat inside, they will protest loudly because of course they are accustomed to being outside and love the fresh air and adventures. You can do it but it, but again will take alot of patience for kitty won't be happy....he'll of course be much safer and healthier as an indoor only kitty tho...again good luck:)