Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: Making the Right Choice

Hello, I'm Matt Young from Companion Animal Veterinary Hospital. Today, we're exploring the pros and cons of keeping your cat indoors versus letting them roam outdoors, to help you make the best decision for your feline friend.

Why Keeping Your Cat Indoors is Preferable

• Safety: Indoor cats are safe from traffic accidents and fights with other cats.
• Health: They have a lower risk of contracting diseases like FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus).
• Wildlife Protection: Indoor cats can't hunt and harm native wildlife.

Dealing with the Desire to Escape

Between four to six months of age, cats may try to escape. If you resist letting them out during this period, they will eventually adapt to being indoor cats.

Outdoor Access: Safe Alternatives

If you do want your cat to experience the outdoors, consider a cat enclosure in your yard. This allows them to explore safely without the associated risks.

Guidelines for Letting Your Cat Outside

• Wait until they are at least 5 months old.
• Ensure they are desexed, microchipped, and vaccinated for FIV.
• Allow them to acclimate to your home for at least a month before letting them outside.

To conclude, while it's preferable to keep your cat indoors for their safety and the protection of wildlife, if you choose to let them outside, take the necessary precautions.