Should I Let My Cat Outside

furry friends red cat and corgi dog walking in a summer meadow under the drops of warm rain

furry friends red cat and corgi dog walking in a summer meadow under the drops of warm rain

Domestic black and white cat with green eyes sits in grass against fence of country house in sunny summer day, village, rural life

The holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT, of “I and love and you” is the author of this essay.

I grew up with cats, both indoors and out. We were a magnet for stray cats, and my house was backed up to a wheat field. Twice in my childhood did two of the six cats I owned leave the house and never return. My mother has always believed that allowing cats to enjoy the outdoors is best for their mental health. I had two indoor cats and lived in an apartment complex while attending college. I was scared to allow them outside because I lived close to a busy road.

My cats have always lived indoors as adults. Shaming cat parents who allow their cats outside was a lesson we learned in veterinary school. We were told that there are far too many threats in the world, including vehicles, other cats, viruses, dogs, people, and predators like bobcats, cougars, and coyotes.

I’ve been practicing for 14 years, and I’ve seen cats both inside and outside. Three categories of cats, as far as I can tell. The first group consists of indoor-only cats who have never experienced anything else. The saddest cats are the ones that venture outside but lack the street smarts to survive. The cats that can be kept indoors and outdoors come in third. The happy and, dare I say it, healthiest group is the third one. These cats experience less stress and are rarely obese. Although I do treat them more frequently for worms and abscesses from cat bites, overall, they are having the best possible existence.

I’ve been wondering for the past year how we can enjoy the outdoors while lowering the risk. How can our kitties play in the grass and bask in the sun without worrying that a coyote may eat them? These are my suggestions for allowing your cat to enjoy the outdoors in safety.

1VaccinesCat Outside?

I would advise getting your cat vaccinated againstfeline leukemia if they will be around other cats..It’s critical to safeguard your cat from panleukopenia and rabies if they are outdoors. Additionally

2Fencing.

You can use this netting to secure your fence at the top so that your cat can stay safely in your backyard. Although these are usually rather robust, major snowstorms may need repairs. Additionally, be sure that tree branches that dangle over the fence cannot be a means of escape for your cat.

3Catios.

Consider a catio if you don’t have a fence you can change! Here is where you may find premade catios. You may also make one yourself with these DIY patterns, if you’re feeling really crafty.

4Day Adventures Only.

Before the evening and nighttime prime predator time window, bring your cat inside. By establishing a routine and joyful coming-in time during supper or treat time, you may easily and stress-free accomplish this change.

5Up to date tags.

It makes sense that a lot of indoor cats don’t wear their collars or tags. I advise maintaining current tags with your contact information and your cat’s information on them for outdoor cats in case they become lost. In addition, I recommend break-away collars, which your cat can effortlessly remove if it gets tangled in something.

You want to keep your cat safe and healthy, I know that! I would be delighted to hear from you if you have any questions! Comment down below!

Whit love

Shahmeer

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