The Advantages of Indoor Cats
By HollywoodPet.net |
Sat, 30 Dec 2006
Indoor cats have advantages over outdoor cats. Here are a few of the dangers that outdoor cats face. When considering if your cat will be indoor, outdoor or both, keep in mind a few basics concerning cats being left oudoors.
Other animals.
Dogs, cats, and wild animals can be a threat to your cat. Domesticated cats can underestimate the threat from other animals.
People.
It is sad to report that unwanted cats can be harmed or stolen by people. Throwing rocks, scaring or harassing of cats is all too common.
Toxins.
Your cat has a greater chance of exposure to chemicals, pesticides, fertilizer or poisons when let outside. An indoor environment is easier to control.
Parasites.
Letting your cat outdoors increases the exposure to fleas, ticks, mites and worms that would be less common indoors.
Disease.
Coming into contact with other animals outdoors increases the exposure to feline aids, rabies and other diseases. Keep in mind that many vaccines are not 100 percent accurate. Limiting exposure to disease is always helpful.
Cars.
This is a big one. Cars kill a lot of small animals and pets. This type of accident can happen in your driveway or on a main road. Indoor cats that are let outside can underestimate the threat.
Indoor cats can live twice as long as outdoor cats. The stable indoor temperature and lack of exposure to harsh elements is less stressful for an indoor cat. Cats create territory. If a cat is kept indoors, they shrink their territory to the home. If let outside, cats will expand their territory sometimes as large as miles away. The distances create more risk from traffic, people and the elements. Cats do not need to go outside. Make a good judgement about keeping your pet safe is what good pet ownership is all about. The best way to prevent your cat from waiting at the door to go out is to not let your pet out in the first place. Crying at the door will diminish on its own. Way the risks of whether to let your cat outside so you and your pet will be happy.
