In-door or Out-door? The Great Cat Debate

"Cats need to be outdoors. It's unfair to keep them inside."

"Letting a cat outside is dangerous and irresponsible"

Who is right? Should cats be allowed to roam free through the neighbourhood or should they be kept safe-and-sound indoors. The experts are still out, with plenty of arguments on both sides. It seems to come down to unique circumstances, but here are some things to consider as you join the debate.

It is true that cats that live outside are at no loss of entertainment. Prowling through the neighbourhood, hunting small critters, and lazing in the sun are some favourite pass-times of outdoor cats.

You can help keep your outdoor cat safer by taking the following steps:

• Ensure that he/she is well fed at home to deter eating garbage or scraps from other homes
• Provide a break-free collar that will release should it become caught. This reduces the risk of strangulation
• Keep your cat indoors during harsh weather
• Provide a safe outdoor source of water to avoid dehydration
• Microchip your pet for easy identification should he/she become lost

When should a cat be kept indoors?

There is evidence to suggest that indoor cats live longer and experience fewer health emergencies when they are kept indoors. When deciding if your cat should be kept indoors you should evaluate the risks that your area presents. If any of these significant risks are present then you may want to consider keeping Felix indoors:

• Busy roads
• Unfriendly dogs
• Predatory animals such as hawks, coyotes, and raccoons

You should also keep your cat indoors if it has been declawed. Although it is scary to think about, there is always a risk that your beloved pet will come in contact with an unfriendly animal such as another cat or dog. If your pet does not have claws, it could be at an unfair disadvantage.

Finally, cats that are not spayed or neutered should remain indoors to prevent unwanted pregnancies and litters.

And don't worry. Cats can lead completely fulfilling lives within your home. You can help ensure that your cat enjoys his/her indoor lifestyle by taking the following steps:

• Decide early on to keep your cat indoors and stick to your conviction. A kitten will adapt to an indoor lifestyle more readily than an older cat that has already been living outside
• Provide plenty of opportunity for exercise and mental stimulation, including lots of playtime with you and some independent toys as well
• Give him/her a place to climb. Cat gyms can be as elaborate as your imagination (and space) will allow, or they can be as simple as a secure series of shelves

Regardless of which you choose, it is always important that you are putting the welfare of your pet first. Whether indoor or outdoor, cats need plenty of love and attention from their owners.

MORE TH>N can help keep your cat healthy with Pet Insurance from as little as £6.79/month. Learn More >

< Back to articles