I’ve always been an avid cat lover ever since my younger years. Even today, I live in an upstairs apartment and have a cat that I let in and out.
If you want to learn how to let a cat in and out when living upstairs in an apartment, I am here to provide you with the best tips I have.
The thought of allowing your cat outside if you have only ever owned indoor cats may scare you or even cause you to recoil in fear. However, most cats thrive in the outdoors, as this is their natural habitat.
If you are living in an upstairs apartment, you can still let your cat in and out with enough preparation and an understanding of your cat’s behaviors, personality, and needs.
Knowing how you can let a cat in and out while living in an upstairs apartment will help you to put your mind at ease while allowing your cat to embrace her freedom while exploring all there is that life has to offer.
How to let a cat in and out when living in an upstairs apartment?
Letting your cat in and out when living in an upstairs apartment is possible by adding stairs, pet-friendly doors, ladders, and additional access points. Creating special and secret passageways for your cat is another way to provide them with hiding spots and defense mechanisms against predators.
How to Let my Cat Outside Easily with Less Effort in an Upstairs Apartment
Depending on the apartment or apartment complex you live in, you may be permitted to add an additional entrance to one of your doors or windows.
Some apartments may permit you to add cat stairs on the exterior of your building, depending on your landlord.
Additionally, it is also possible to train your cat to have an indoor/outdoor schedule based on their meal times as well as your own work and home schedule.
How to Add Exits to my Apartment for my Cat
First, consider the layout of your apartment as well as the setup and structure of your building.
Do you have a back door that leads to a courtyard where your cat can roam freely? Do you have a pet door you want to install?
Visualize the entryways as well as the exit points currently available in your apartment building to determine which additions are likely to work best for your feline friend.
Inquire about your options and flexibility with your landlord before removing doorways or adding your own entryways and exit points.
Adding a pet door to one of your own main doors is a possibility, but will often require permission and may require you to invest in the doors as well.
Set a Time Limit When I Allow my Cat to be Outdoors
While it is not usually as easy to train cats as it is to train dogs, it is possible with the right connection and enough patience.
Although you may never be able to set a time limit for the time your cat spends outdoors, you can train your cat to abide by a feeding and sleeping schedule.
When your cat becomes hungry and is not free-fed, they are more likely to hang outside near their home(s) and return regularly.
Advantages of Living in an Upstairs Apartment with a Cat
Living in an upstairs apartment with your cat is not entirely restricting. In fact, having an upstairs apartment provides your cat with views that are unavailable from the ground floor.
Your cat may be perfectly content with simply having a great view from inside of your apartment when you have an apartment that is on the upper floor.
In your apartment, you can also guarantee that your cat is safe, protected, and fed at all times.
How to Tell if my Apartment is Right for a Cat
Not all apartments and apartment complexes are right for cats or any pets. It is best to speak directly with your landlord or leasing department to determine whether or not you are permitted to own a cat in your upstairs apartment.
If you live in a complex, it is important to consider the outdoor terrain and atmosphere and whether or not it is appropriate for a cat.
Is the surrounding area of your apartment safe, or is there an excess of traffic that is too dangerous for an outdoor cat?
Do you have a courtyard or a common area where all tenants can freely mingle and spend time? Is there a space where your cat can enjoy the outdoors without putting herself in harm’s way?
If you know your neighbors, speak directly with them to clarify if they are okay with having an indoor/outdoor cat in the building.
Showing common courtesy and respect for not only your neighbors but also your landlord can go a long way when you are thinking of adding a cat to your household.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Let a Cat In and Out When Living in an Upstairs Apartment
Is it safe to let my cat outdoors?
While cats thrive in nature, some may fare better than others. It is imperative to consider your cat’s personality as well as his own behavioral patterns before allowing him outdoors. Keep in mind that your cat will also be susceptible to weather, traffic, and other people when outside on his own.
Can I use a leash on my cat whenever he is outdoors?
If you are with your cat, you can use a leash on your feline pal. Most apartments and apartment complexes will not approve of leaving any animal attached to a leash unattended. There are leashes and entire body harnesses that are optimal for indoor/outdoor cats of all sizes.
How can I train my cat to come home before bed?
The best way to keep your cat safe and indoors at night is to take him inside after dinner time. Keeping your feline regularly fed on a schedule will keep him coming home on time.
What can I do to track my cat when he is outside?
It is advisable to have your cat (and any other pet you own) microchipped. Additionally, it is also possible to invest in a GPS collar or tracking device made for both dogs and cats.