The Dangers of Outdoor Living for Cats

It is estimated that the average lifespan of a free-roaming outdoor cat is less than three years, compared to 12-15 years for the average indoor-only cat. These numbers likely have fueled the trend among pet parents to make the safety, health, and happiness of their cats a priority by keeping their cats indoors, creating safe enclosures for outdoor activity, and enjoying the outdoors with their pet in shared activity.

Virtually everything your cat needs - play, exercise, proper nutrition, rest, and companionship - can be readily had indoors. Your cat does not need to go outside to feel complete, and you should not feel guilty if you choose an indoor lifestyle for her. The notion that a cat must roam free to be happy is a myth that may end her life prematurely. She can get all of the fresh air and sunshine she needs safely under your supervision.

Outdoor hazards

Cars, Dogs, and Predators

There are many outdoor dangers that free roaming cats must face. One of the most common dangers for outdoor cats is vehicles. An outdoor cat darting across the street is a perfect target for a moving vehicle, and cats that are hit by cars rarely survive. Another hazard is an unfriendly neighborhood dog. Dogs can inflict life-threatening injuries on cats, especially those who have learned to be trusting towards dogs. Predators such as coyotes and raccoons are hazards that many pet parents forget about in the city, but predators are not just found in the country. In many areas, wild animals are not only potential predators, but also possible carriers of disease.

Cats and People

Don't forget about dangers from other cats. Intact male cats tend to be especially prone to territorial fights with other cats. If your cat gets into a territorial fight with another cat and is bitten, it could result in the spread of disease or a painful abscess, with a need for veterinary care. Always check your cat for painful lumps and bumps. Other types of injury or cruelty may also be inflicted by a person who does not like cats. Cats have been known to have been injured by angry neighbors who dislike cats digging in their gardens or hunting birds.

Diseases and Parasites

Diseases can pose a big risk for outdoor cats. Contact with wild animals and other cats can result in the transmission of life-threatening diseases such as feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus, or even rabies. Be sure that your cat is current on all recommended vaccines. Your veterinarian can determine which vaccines are recommended for your cat's lifestyle. The risk of infestations with fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, and other parasites increases in outdoor cats.

Poisons

Poisons pose a very real danger to outdoor cats. Although you may have "cat-proofed" your outdoor area, others may not have, and your cat could be exposed to toxic substances such as antifreeze or pesticides. Poisons meant to control pests such as rat poison or slug bait can also poison other animals who ingest them. It is also important to remember that if your cat ingests an animal such as a mouse that was poisoned, your cat can be poisoned by ingesting that mouse.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can change abruptly and become harsh with little warning. Your cat could experience frostbite in the winter or dehydration and heat stroke in the summer. If your cat is outdoors, be sure she has shelter from the elements as well as food and water available at all times.

Getting Lost

Your cat could be trapped in a building, stolen, taken to an animal shelter, or adopted by someone who found her roaming in their yard. Many cities have laws against stray animals, including cats. Make sure you keep identification with current contact information on your cat at all times.

Make the Indoors More Stimulating

There are many ways you can make the indoors more appealing to your cat and give her similar activities as she would have outdoors. This can help prevent a curious cat from trying to escape.

Cat Trees, Scratching Posts, and Toys

Cat trees and play furniture provide tall places for climbing and observation, and scratching posts and toys for stimulation. Available in a range of colors, styles, and options to fit your decor as well as the needs of your cat. Find toys that appeal to your cat, and remember to rotate them on a weekly basis to prevent boredom. Simple things like cardboard boxes, paper bags (not plastic!), and rolls of paper can provide many distractions. You can also put treats or kibble into a treat dispensing toy to not only provide stimulation for your cat, but also exercise as well.

Treats

To keep her alert and active, break up your cat's routine. Stash delicious treats around your home to reward your pet for a good hunt. Provide an occasional catnip treat, for some energetic fun and excitement.

Window Perches

Install a window perch to afford your cat a warm place to nap in the sun, and a "birds-eye" view of the outdoors. Remember that if there is an animal hanging around your yard, your cat may become agitated by being able to see the animal but not being able to go outside.

Companions

Some cats will do much better with another pet in the house; another cat or a dog can provide companionship. Hours of play can also provide exercise.

Videos

Believe it or not, some cats love to watch TV! Special videos for cats will provide hours of mental stimulation and will distract them from wanting to go outside.

Making the Outdoors Safer

If you do want to allow your cat to go outside, there are ways you can make the experience safer.

Identification

In preparation for any outdoor activity, make sure your cat has a harness or breakaway collar with identification. An identification tag should include your cat's name and your current contact information. Microchipping is an alternative if your cat refuses to wear a collar or loses her identification tag frequently.

Preventive health measures

If your cat will be outside, be sure he or she is fully vaccinated, and spayed or neutered. Talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate worming schedule. Be sure to have fecal exams done periodically throughout the year to be sure your cat has not become infected with intestinal parasites. It is also a good idea to have your cat on a heartworm preventive (yes, cats can get heartworm disease!) as well as a flea and tick preventive.

Runs, Pens, and Fences

Commercial mesh cat runs set up quickly and protect your cat, allowing her to enjoy fresh air, watch birds, and bask in the warm sunshine. Sections can be connected giving her more space to roam. Because cats are great leapers, erecting a fence tall enough to keep your pet in, and others out, can be challenging. Wire mesh, hung at a 45 degree angle along the top of the fence, can effectively limit escapes.

Pet Doors

Installing a cat door connected to a screened-in porch, fenced yard, or a run frees your cat to enjoy the outdoors as he desires, and provides a quick escape from predators.

Leashes

Because most cats won't walk on a leash naturally, you must teach them. For your first walks, try starting in the late evening or early morning in a quiet area. Your cat is much more likely to venture out when there is no one else around. Most cats take a few days to adjust to the idea of leash walking. Because cats don't like to feel restricted, use a lightweight nylon leash that's about four to five feet long, or a retractable lead which will help eliminate tugging, pulling and straining, and enable your cat to roam up to 16 feet. For cats, it is best to use a harness instead of a collar.

Carriers and Pet Strollers

You can carry your pet anytime, anywhere, and protect her from other animals. With adjustable shoulder and waist straps, many carriers are comfortable for you and your pet. They are also ideal transport for ailing or disabled pets. Another option is a pet stroller which allows you to take your pet for a walk while keeping her safe.

A Few Final Tips

Attach a bell to your cat's harness or collar to prevent her from killing songbirds or small mammals and to alert people that she is around. Buying a reflective collar or harness can make your cat more visible at night to passing motorists.

Following this advice can help your pet have a happy, long, and healthy life.