There’s no denying a cat’s right to roam, to hunt out wildlife from surrounding gardens and endlessly taunt the neighbour’s dog, but as more and more of our feline friends fall victim to the dangers of the wide world, many cat owners are asking whether they should keep their cat indoors.
Well, unfortunately, there is no definite answer. There are many arguments for and against. Top zoologist, John Bradshaw, has recently stated that cats who are permitted outside may have a much more stressful life. Let’s not forget the outside world is a pretty big place, and although most cats can find their way about perfectly fine, it’s easy for a cat to get lost or trapped, end up in a fight for territory with rivals, get hit by a car, contract a deadly infection or disease or get chased, and even caught, by dogs and other predators. So then, it seems perfectly acceptable, even practical to keep your cat safe and protected from these dangers, inside the house. But that does depend on each cat’s individual situation.
Benefits of an outdoor life
Mr Bradshaw also explains that it is only ok to keep your cat indoors if it is happy and healthy. So for example, a cat raised as stray or adopted from a previous owner who let it wander outdoors will have developed the skills to hunt and explore. If you keep a cat like this indoors, chances are he will be very unhappy, and could cause much more stress as the cat searches for a way out.
Outdoor cats usually live shorter more dangerous lives, but for some this may be more fulfilling than long boring lives, trapped indoors. They can develop natural behaviours and earn a bigger territory, explore an ever-changing and exciting environment and get plenty of exercise to keep them healthy.
How to keep outdoor cats safe?
- If your cat is an outdoor cat, there are things you can do to minimise the risk to their health.
- Let your cat out during the day time, but teach them to come in overnight when dazzling headlights and nocturnal wildlife pose a bigger danger.
- Train your cat to come when called – treating them whenever they come back on command will ensure your cat never wanders too far.
- Get them a reflective collar so they can be easily seen in bad weather.
- Keep your cat fully vaccinated, and up to date with worming and flea treatments.
- Ensure microchips are kept updated with current addresses and telephone numbers, and invest in an ID tag with the same details.
- Make sure your tom cat in neutered. This will stop him roaming as far and will mean he gets into fewer fights. If you have a lady cat, spaying her will stop any unwanted pregnancies. So when is it ok for you to keep a cat indoors?
When to keep your outdoor cat, indoors
There are certain times of the year when it is advised cats, and all pets, are brought inside. For example, bringing them in on bonfire night and New Year’s Eve when people are likely to set off fireworks that could spook your feline friend will stop them running into danger and get lost.
During the winter months when the temperature drops, if there’s a frost or snow forecasted, or heavy rain and winds, your furry friend will thank you for the comfort and warmth of the indoors.
After any surgeries, if pregnant or whilst on any medicines, your cat should be kept indoors so you can keep an eye on their health.
New kittens should be kept indoors until they have had all their vaccinations, and been neutered. When you do let them out, consider investing in a long lead while they get used to your garden, and don’t leave them alone until you are confident that they can find their way back.
Keeping indoor cats happy and healthy
If you are adopting a cat, and intend to keep him indoors, try to choose one that has either been born and raised indoors, or adopt a kitten that has never been outdoors. You could even consider adopting sibling kittens, so they can keep each other occupied and entertained.
Provide plenty of toys to keep your moggy entertained. They can be expensive toys, simple motorized mice and laser pointers, or even a simple paper bag they can play with – but keeping them occupied is key to keeping them happy indoors.
A cat’s need to scratch is a natural instinct; it helps them to strengthen muscles, mark territory and maintain their claws, so unless you want your furniture destroying, invest in a scratching post. If they don’t give it any attention and you’re concerned for your curtains, lace it with catnip to get them interested.
Make sure your feline has a good view. Watching the outside world from the safety of a window sills can provide lots of entertainment, and lets them laze in the sunshine on warm days, but be sure to tuck blind cords and curtain ties out of the way to avoid accidents.
You could try planting an indoor garden of catnip for them to nibble at and roll about in. Wheatgrass, alfalfa and oat grass can all be grown indoors and your cat will enjoy grazing on them to get a taste of the outdoors.
Green Lane Farm
Here at Green Lane Farm, our team will take care of your feline friend while you’re away. Even if it’s just for a few days, keeping a cat happy and entertained in a cattery is essential, especially if your pet is used to company.
With years of experience, if you’re concerned about keeping your car indoors, or how to safely let it outdoors, simply give us a call, or pop into see us. We’ll be happy to share our tips on the best way to keep your cat safe and happy at all times.
