Introduction to Cat Care - Your New Cat: Lesson 7 - Indoors or Outdoors?

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Introduction to Cat Care - Your New Cat Lesson 7 - Indoors or Outdoors? From Franny Syufy, your Guide to Cats When I was growing up, and for much of my married life, our cats were allowed free access to the outdoors. After all, cats need fresh air, sunshine, and freedom to survive, don't they? In this age of enlightenment, I've reconsidered. Indoor cats do not get killed by cars, dogs, predators, or humans who would harm them. Cats can live very happily indoors. Believe it. Indoors or Outdoors? The Debate Continues Here's how I came about changing my way of thinking. Of the four cats in my home today, only one is allowed outdoors - at 16, he's too crochety to change his ways. The younger cats have lived indoors all their lives and don't know any other way of living. I urge you to consider that lifestyle for your cat. He'll live longer, and I know your goal is a long, long life together. Another Reason to Keep Your Cat Indoors This guy isn't fooling, and his attitude is shared by neighbors of free-roaming cats all over the world. Even if you don't live in Atlanta, take his threats to heart, as well as the reasons he outlined why cats should not be allowed to roam. Compromises to the Dilemma Outdoor Enclosures for Cats Your cat can enjoy the best of both worlds with an outdoor enclosure. It can be as small or elaborate as you have space (and finances) for. Modular kits are available, or if you are handy with shop tools, you can build your own, of your own design, or with purchased plans. Most lumber yards will even cut your lumber to the desired length for you. Please consider this compromise. Plants for Your Outdoor "Catuary" Cats love greenery, and even the smallest outdoor enclosure can include a pot of cat grass, and a small container of catnip is a must! A note of caution: if your planned enclosure will be on lawn, forego fertilizers and commercial sprays, which can be toxic to cats. (A mild soap and water spray makes a good insect killer.) Other Alternatives to Free-Roaming Leash Training for Your Cat It's not all that difficult to train a cat to a leash, provided you let him think it's his idea. Like many other changes, the watch words are slowly and gradually. Don't use a collar, as they are too easily escaped. An H-shaped harness works well if the fit is snug enough. I also like the Walking Jacket for larger cats. Your cat may "belly walk" for awhile, but he'll soon get used to it. The Outdoor Cat - A Menu of Safe Alternatives Would your cat enjoy being pushed in a "kitty stroller?" Carried like a baby on your chest in a vest-style personal carrier? These products and others offer solutions to the indoor-outdoor dilemma. Don't Lose Your Cat All Cats Should Carry Identification Whether indoors only or allowed outside access, all cats should have identification, both permanent (microchip or tattoo) and removable (collar and tags). It's too easy for a cat to escape and become lost or injured. I know you don't want your cat to become a statistic. Did you know that only 3% of owned cats in shelters are reunited with their humans? This email is written by: Franny Syufy Cats Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Missing a lesson? Click here. About U. is our collection of free online courses designed to help you learn a new skill, solve a problem, get something done, or just learn more about your world. Sign up now, and we will email you lessons on a daily or weekly basis. You are receiving this email because you subscribed to the About.com 'Introduction to Cat Care - Your New Cat' email. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2010 About.com   Advertisement