What happens if a cat is kept tied up?

Keeping a cat tied up has multiple negative effects. First, cats naturally love to climb, hunt, and explore; if tied up for long periods, these basic needs cannot be met, leading to negative emotions such as depression, boredom, and anxiety, and in severe cases even self-harming behavior.

Second, a cat kept tied up long term may have its free movement restricted, leading to insufficient exercise that harms muscle and joint development and may even cause obesity or arthritis. Finally, cats kept tied up for long periods may urinate and defecate indiscriminately; if not cleaned promptly, the cat is very likely to contract skin diseases or other illnesses.