Tips on Having an Outdoor Cat

Cats love the great outdoors, and some cat owners choose to let their pets roam outside. Although spending time outdoors may help cats from becoming overweight and allows them to control the population of small pests around your home, outdoor cats face a variety of dangers. According to BestCatArt.com, some experts place the average lifespan of outdoor cats at 18 months to five years. If you decide to let your cat outdoors, there are some tips to make it a better experience for you and your cat.

  1. Spaying and Neutering

    • Have your outdoor cat spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted litters and to help keep the cat population under control. Neutering your male cat can also improve its temperament. According to Best Cat Art, neutered male cats are less aggressive, so they may be less likely to get into a fight with another cat. They are also less likely to stray as far from your property.

    Identification

    • Letting your cat outdoors increases the chance that it will run off or become lost. Be sure that your cat is wearing a collar with an attached ID tag that contains your contact information. Collars are also available with built-in microchips so you can track your cat's location. To prevent possible injury, check with your veterinarian to ensure that the collar you choose fits your cat properly.

    Be Vigilant

    • Cats are curious by nature, so it's easy for them to crawl into spaces that can be dangerous. If your property contains an outbuilding such as a shed, be sure to take a look inside before closing the door. Cats also love warm places, especially during the winter, and will often seek refuge underneath a warm car. Although the cat will probably be startled by the sound of a starting engine, it's still a good idea to take a look around before backing out of the driveway. Cats also love to nibble on plants, so check your property for any that may be poisonous.

    Protection Against Disease and Parasites

    • Outdoor cats face increased exposure to parasites and disease. As a result, it is important to make sure your cat is up to date on its vaccinations to protect against potentially fatal maladies such as feline leukemia. You should also check your cat regularly for fleas and ticks and protect it with a flea collar or spray.

    Traffic Dangers

    • Outdoor cats are highly susceptible to being hit by a car. If you live in a high-traffic area, keep your outdoor cat in an enclosed area if possible, and try to limit the time it spends outdoors. If you live in an inner-city environment where there are no good areas for your cat to roam freely, you should strongly consider keeping your cat indoors.