Outdoor Cat Problems

Domesticated house cats have their friends and foes. There are those who love cats, and those who love them not so much. The debate over whether cats should be allowed to live outdoors, or given unfettered access to the outdoors, is a controversial one.

  1. Problem for the Cat

    • According to the Humane Society of the United States, free-roaming cats live 1 to 3 years, indoor/outdoor cats live 6 to 8 years, and indoor-only cats can live 20 years or more. This is because outdoor cats are at risk for a number of dangers. They can get into fights with dogs or other cats, eat a poisonous lizards or bugs, get hit by a car, chased by a dog or become a victim of cruelty.

    Problem for the Birds

    • Outdoor cats, especially feral or wild cats, survive on the small animals they hunt. Wild birds are at risk from free-roaming cats because cats will catch fledgling baby birds when they fall to the ground and cannot defend themselves. People who put collars with a bells on their cats in an effort to save birds is not doing enough to keep birds safe. Birds cannot hear well, so the bells are useless.

    Problems for Wildlife

    • Infant rabbits and squirrels are also at risk for becoming a meal for a hungry cats. And while some might be happy to keep rats and mice away, most people would agree that baby bunnies and squirrels are invited guests in urban backyards.

    Problems for the Community

    • Intact cats roaming free contribute to the pet overpopulation problem facing many American communities. Cats can be responsible for car accidents as drivers suddenly brake to avoid hitting a cat in the road. Cat bites, from frightened or defensive cats, are serious and can lead to dangerous infections.