Indoor vs. outdoor cats
Posted by cheryl on Apr 17, 2012 in General Information, Health & Wellness | 0 comments
This post was written by Claudia Gale
Email: claudia@bittypaws.com
The birds are chirping and the weather is warming up, and all your kitties want to do is roll around in the grass and warm their whiskers in the sun. But should they roam free?
The indoor vs. outdoor question is hotly debated among cat owners, and there is no universally right answer; it’s up to the owner to decide what is right for their cats. But be aware of the overwhelming evidence, stacked in favour of our indoor companions. Indoor cats tend to live longer lives, have fewer instances of infectious disease, parasites and injuries. The big city also has some very scary predators, including racoons, skunks, vermin and lots of cars.
The tides are shifting, and more owners are choosing to keep their kitties inside. The consensus among veterinary professionals is that it’s much healthier to keep cats indoors. The dangers to an outdoor cat far outweigh any potential benefits and it’s easier to keep your cat cooped up inside when you know it’s in their best interest.
It’s possible to give our feline friends the best of both worlds – exercise, fresh air and freedom, without the risks. Owners can safely allow their cats to enjoy some time outdoors by providing a screened-in enclosure or fenced-in yard, spending time outside together, leash-training for walks, and making sure to keep up to date on vaccinations. Whether keeping your cat indoors or letting him roam free, as pet owners we are responsible for providing the best for our loved ones.