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Should Your Cat Be Indoors or Out?

This topic has been discussed almost as much as which was first, the chicken or the egg!

Some people feel that all cats should be outside, while others feel very strongly that they should be indoors only. What we're going to do is look at both sides of the issue so that you can make the best determination for your pets and your situation.

Keeping Cats Indoors

While some people think all cats should live outside, one statistic alone seems to argue against that. Cats who live outside have an average life expectancy of 4 to 5 years, while cats who live inside average 12 to 18 years.

There are very few humane societies or experienced owners who recommend keeping a cat as an "outside" member of the family.

Outside cats suffer from more disease and certainly more trauma, from anything to accidents involving cars, fights with other cats, encounters with dogs or wild animals, predator birds, falls, foxtails, poison - the list goes on, and it includes greater possibility of skin cancer in light-colored cats.

Why People Keep Cats Outdoors

Scratching is often a reason for not having a cat inside, but there are many safe devices on the market today that will deter them from furniture or counters.

Also, some people feel a cat indoors will become bored, lazy or out of shape. This isn't true. Cats don't become bored if they're inside, but it's always a good idea to have some activities for them, and if they like greens, maybe a small pot of grass that will be safe for them to eat.

Suggestions and Alternatives

If you feel an inside cat suffers from not being outside, it's always possible to build or buy a completely enclosed "run" in the yard that, combined with a pet door, offers safety with outdoor time.

This is really not pampering a pet so much as it is being a concerned owner. There are several types of fencing sold, too, that can make a safe and exciting area for a cat, which should always include a shady place for comfort on a hot day.

Don't forget that most cats can be leash trained, and as long as there's grass to protect their paw pads, walks can be a lot of fun.

Careful Of Certain Houseplants

If you do choose keep your cats or kittens indoors, be careful because some plants are poisonous to cats, and these should be avoided in or around the house. They include hibiscus, any of the Easter lily family, philodendron, dieffenbachia (cane plants), and holly berries or mistletoe during the holidays.

Whichever life style you choose, good luck to you and your feline companion.