Are you considering keeping your cat inside because you don't have a safe outdoor area for your cat to explore? Are you scared to let your cat roam around outdoors? In this article, we will reassure you about your decision to keep your cat indoors.

Contrary to popular belief, a cat can be very happy indoors, especially if they have never spent time outdoors. With that being said, the reverse case is much more complicated. If your cat has been outside before, they will most likely have a harder time staying indoors. It is important to know, however, that by keeping your cat indoors, you are protecting them harm.

For more information, you can read this article: Outdoor cats: what are the risks?

Outdoor cats are more likely to catch diseases and parasites

In April 2019, a study showed that cats with access to the outdoors are three times more likely to catch parasites and diseases. For example, they are more likely to carry fleas, ticks, and other parasites. Moreover, when they return home, they can also contaminate your house and other pets that you might have.

It's important to keep in mind, though, that even indoor cats need to be protected from fleas and worms. This is because they can be contaminated from us as well.

Outdoor cats are more likely to get into cat fights or get hurt

Every year, thousands of cats are killed on the roads, mostly by cars. Even if you live in the countryside, the risks are still high. No cat is really safe outdoors.

In addition to road accidents, cats can also be the victims of ill-intentioned people. For example, cats can be poisoned, kidnapped, or shot by accident.

In addition, cats can get hurt by falling off or getting stuck in a fence. They can also be poisoned by toxic plants or products found in people's gardens.

Lastly, a cat who goes outside will also be confronted with other cats. When they are in these situations, it's possible that your cat might fight. They also might mate with another cat, resulting in a litter of unwanted kittens if your cat is not spayed or neutered.

Cats hunt when they are outdoors

When cats go on outdoor adventures, they can be very good hunters. According to La Ligue pour la protection des oiseaux (LPO), felines are responsible for the death of 75 million birds in France alone. On average, a cat captures about 2.4 prey per week and half of them are left dead untouched. Cats often hunt for small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Is it possible to keep a cat indoors?

If you decide to keep your cat indoors from an early age, it makes things a lot easier. However, cats are curious animals. If you are able to, you can allow your cat to access the outdoors under supervision. For example, you can use a leash or keep your cat in some sort of enclosure in your yard.

In addition, you can adapt your house to let your cat run around and play. For instance, it's helpful to have a cat tree or toys that encourage them to run around inside. Additionally, you should also adapt their diet because who don't go outside get less exercise. Make sure that their diet suits their daily needs.

Have you made the choice to keep your cat indoors?

You might also like reading this article: Indoor or outdoor cat?

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