Should I let my cat outside? Does this make me an irresponsible cat owner? Welcome to the common cat questions.
Depending on environment and the personality of your cat, the outdoor option may be perfectly acceptable for your feline friend.
Ten years ago, I adopted Allie, the one-year-old independent Tabby with a love for adventure.
At first Allie was accepting of her indoor environment.
She was content lounging on furniture and playing with toys.
But as time passed, her curiosity grew and she longed to explore the outdoors.
Allie would meow constantly, paw at the door and try to escape at any chance.
There are risks letting a cat outside.
Kitty could be hit by a car, hurt by another animal or run away.
However, I wanted Allie to be happy and as my vet said have "quality of life".
I knew Allie had some anxiety and in fairness, I needed to entertain the idea of her embracing the outdoors.
Before letting your cat outside make sure of the following: •Train your cat to come when you call by name or a whistle.
Reward your pet with a little wet food or tuna fish •Vaccinate your pet •Be responsible and neuter or spay your pet •Kitty must be over 6 months of age •Install a microchip or purchase a collar with current information •Make sure kitty is in by dark.
I'm happy to say Allie has been an indoor/outdoor cat for six months.
She's happier, less anxious and smiles often.
Allie has also learned to come inside when I call for her.
I would like to think she misses me, but I know that tuna fish is her true love.
Depending on environment and the personality of your cat, the outdoor option may be perfectly acceptable for your feline friend.
Ten years ago, I adopted Allie, the one-year-old independent Tabby with a love for adventure.
At first Allie was accepting of her indoor environment.
She was content lounging on furniture and playing with toys.
But as time passed, her curiosity grew and she longed to explore the outdoors.
Allie would meow constantly, paw at the door and try to escape at any chance.
There are risks letting a cat outside.
Kitty could be hit by a car, hurt by another animal or run away.
However, I wanted Allie to be happy and as my vet said have "quality of life".
I knew Allie had some anxiety and in fairness, I needed to entertain the idea of her embracing the outdoors.
Before letting your cat outside make sure of the following: •Train your cat to come when you call by name or a whistle.
Reward your pet with a little wet food or tuna fish •Vaccinate your pet •Be responsible and neuter or spay your pet •Kitty must be over 6 months of age •Install a microchip or purchase a collar with current information •Make sure kitty is in by dark.
I'm happy to say Allie has been an indoor/outdoor cat for six months.
She's happier, less anxious and smiles often.
Allie has also learned to come inside when I call for her.
I would like to think she misses me, but I know that tuna fish is her true love.