I was never really was one to give catnip to the cats, for no real reason. They always stayed entertained when they were outside and they were equally happy inside.
cats do eat catnip. not all of them. they say if they eat it they fall asleep but snort it they get a little high lol.
worst part about owning a cat is when they die. dont leave them at the vets to put them to sleep, make sure you are there with them to the end.
i let my cats out, but i built them a big cage. if you let them out and they are killed it is your fault. a cat can be happy inside if they are loved. lots of them are.
abe, I know what you mean that cats can be very happy living indoors, and it it safer for them. I happened to grow up in a family with cats, and we let them go outside, and they would come inside whenever they wanted.
I've seen young cats teach themselves to climb trees. I've also seen them get out of trees. It's interesting.