Indoor vs Outdoor Cats
Many people let their cat outdoors to explore, but the outside world can be a dangerous place. Just like dogs, cats need supervision to stay safe from traffic, other animals, toxins, and disease – not to mention the risk of getting lost.
Dangers for Outdoor Cats
Cats that spend time unsupervised outdoors are at a higher risk of:
- Diseases like feline leukemia, feline AIDS and distemper.
- Parasites such as fleas, ticks, ear mites and intestinal worms.
- Poisons and toxins including antifreeze and rat poison, which can taste appealing to cats but can be lethal in even small amounts.
- Predators and vehicles – coyotes, dogs, and cars all pose serious threats.
Outdoor cats are also a danger to wildlife. Several studies suggest that domestic cats kill millions of birds every year. With Canada’s bird populations already stressed from the impacts of climate change and habitat loss, letting cats roam freely adds extra pressure on wildlife.
Tips for Keeping Cats Safe and Happy
The good news is that with a little effort, you can give your cat a safe, happy and fulfilled life indoors or with protected outdoor access, without exposing them to unnecessary risks.
Spay or neuter your cat.
Preferably before 6 months of age to reduce health risks, minimize spraying and territorial behaviour, and prevent your cat from contributing to the tragic problem of pet overpopulation. Contrary to common myths, having a litter of kittens does not benefit the mother’s health, and in fact puts her at higher risk of certain cancers.
Trim your cats’ nails regularly.
Clipping your cats nails every week or so reduces unwanted scratching. Ask your veterinarian to demonstrate the proper technique so you can do this yourself at home safely.
Remember: Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, serving to help remove the dead outer layer of their claws, mark their territory, stretch and work off surplus energy. Rather than try to stop scratching all together, be sure to provide surfaces that your cat is allowed to scratch (see scratching posts below).
Provide safe outdoor access.
Screened-in porches, enclosed balconies, or ‘catios’ are great options. Make sure the area is sufficiently enclosed so that the cat can’t escape.
You can also train your cat to wear a harness (starting young helps). Let your cat get used to the harness by wearing it for short periods at a time before taking them outside. When outside, be sure to always stay close to your cat and away from traffic and other loud noises that could startle them. Be prepared to walk at your cat’s pace, and don’t pull on the leash. Important: Never leave your cat unattended on a leash.
Consider a feline companion.
If you are able to welcome another pet into your home, a second cat can be a great way to provide company, especially for younger or social cats. This can be especially helpful if you work long hours away from home. Just be sure to make introductions gradual, giving both cats time to get used to one another.
Enrich your cat’s environment.
The more opportunities for stimulation that you provide, the less likely your cat will seek adventure outdoors.
- Window perches: Place a cat shelf next to a properly screened and secured window, allowing your cat to survey the outdoors from the safety of home.
- Cat trees and furniture: Provide your cat with stable places to climb and perch, adding more space to their territory.
- Scratching posts: Use a post that aligns with your cat’s scratching preferences (vertical vs. horizontal, soft vs. rough) and place it in proximity to any of the places they are already scratching. Use deterrents like tape or foil to protect furniture until your cat is reliably using their cat post.
- Toys and puzzles:Try a variety and see which ones your cat prefers. In general, the best toys are safe, novel, and destructible – bonus points if they are ingestible! Store the toy collection out of sight and give your cat a few at a time. Rotate them every few days to provide variety and keep your cat’s interest. There are lots of interactive and puzzle toys that can be especially effective, but a simple cardboard box or a paper bag can provide hours of entertainment! You can also hide toys for the cat to find on their own.
- Interactive play: Encourage running, pouncing and leaping around the house to keep your cat entertained and fit while also encouraging the expression of natural behaviours and strengthening the human-animal bond.
- Catnip, honeysuckle and cat grass: Catnip works by triggering feline brain receptors that affect mood and play behaviours. Not all cats respond to catnip, but those who do may enjoy it in toys or just sprinkled around. Honeysuckle and cat grass (also known as oat grass or wheat grass) are other great alternatives. Be sure to offer these in moderation and let cats engage as they want to.