Traditionally, most cats have spent their lives outdoors, perhaps only seeking shelter in a barn or by a fireside in their owners’ homes on the coldest and wettest of days. In the last ten to twenty years, however, many veterinarians, animal welfare experts, and owners prefer to keep cats as indoor-only pets. Some of the reasons include:
- Busier neighborhoods with more traffic; more cats are hit by cars
- Rising rate of abuse and torture by neighbors who dislike cats
- Conflict with bird-loving neighbors (cats will hunt the birds they are trying to attract to their backyards)
- Higher populations of coyotes, fisher cats, and other predators
- Transmission of disease including rabies, FIV, Feline Leukemia, and respiratory infections
In trying to keep cats safe, however, many owners worry about quality of life issues. Do cats miss feeling the sunshine on their backs, grass under their paws, and the ability to chase flying insects on a whim? Is it wrong to deny them their instinct to hunt prey?
Many cats adapt to an indoor life with no problems, especially those that have never known the outdoors. But there are still some cats who race to the door every time someone is getting ready to enter or leave, looking for that opportunity to escape and explore. Are there any solutions?
A few owners have trained their kittens to walk on a leash. Under close owner supervision, cats can enjoy a daily stroll in the backyard, sniffing flowers and observing insects while being far less vulnerable to attack by people or predators. Never leave your cat unattended on a leash, as they may inadvertently become tangled in it, or a coyote may venture too close. More information on leash training can be found here.
Some owners have found a screened-in porch (or balcony, if they live in an apartment or condo) to be a good alternative, where cats may move freely around to find a cozy seat to sun themselves. It’s crucial to use cat-proof screening to be sure your cats cannot break through the screen if another animal or flying insect comes by. You might add some pots of cat grass so the cats can experience the tactile pleasures of grass, without making a mess inside your home.
If you don’t already have a deck, porch, or balcony that you can adapt, there are pre-made solutions.
Habitat Haven sells kits for outdoor mesh enclosures of varying sizes and configurations. With cedar flooring and shelves and special tunnels to connect the enclosures, cats can climb, pounce, chase, and rest, all within the safety of the enclosure. They can be installed on the outside of a cat door or a window, allowing cats to move outdoors at whim. The enclosures are designed to withstand heavy snowfalls and “will not collapse under the weight of a coyote.” Safe Kitty, a home-based company in Maine, builds enclosures made of Maine White Cedar, a rot-resistant wood. There are standard sizes available, but they will also build a custom design according to your needs. They passionately support the work of animal shelters, and donate a portion of each sale to the animal shelter of the customer's choice. Kittywalk Systems sells portable net enclosures for placement on lawn or patio.
If you are handy with power tools and prefer to create an enclosure yourself, instructions are available at Just4Cats. Check out this cat owner’s project for inspiration.
Another great option for cats is special mesh fencing by Affordable Cat Fence. The fencing attaches with steel stanchions to the top of your existing fence, creating an angled, netted barrier that your cats cannot cross. It also prevents other animals from climbing into your yard. There are tree barriers available to prevent the cats from climbing up and over the main fencing. Affordable Cat Fence offers your cats the most freedom of movement while still providing excellent protection.
Whether or not you decide to offer your cats outdoor options like these, it’s important to provide opportunities for mental and physical exercise indoors too. A cat tower or cat tree will encourage them to climb, perch and rest at varying heights, and to stretch and scratch, which are instinctual behaviors. Fishpole toys, with a feather or shiny object at the end of a plastic wand, provide a way for cats to hunt and pounce while not harming wildlife. There are endless choices available to help prevent feline boredom and obesity, and allow you to enjoy some fun with your cats too!
With so many threats to cats’ health and safety, allowing them to roam outdoors across neighborhoods is no longer an option. With a little creativity and planning, your cats can still enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of nature without the risk.
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