Indoor Vs Outdoor Cats | What are the Key Differences?
As cat owners, you’ve probably been tempted to let your cat outside for fresh air and sunshine. You’ve seen other cats around the neighborhood, so what’s the harm? Before you let your cat roam free, it’s important to understand the benefits and risks of keeping your cat indoors vs. outdoors.
Health & Safety Concerns - Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats
There are health concerns associated with both indoor and outdoor cats. Indoor cats typically have a lower level of activity which poses an increased risk of diabetes, arthritis, obesity, and heart disease. With the proper accommodations, though, indoor cats are generally healthier and have longer lifespans than their outdoor counterparts.
Cats that free roam outdoors can catch diseases such as feline leukemia (FeLV), upper respiratory infections (URI), panleukopenia (feline distemper), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Outdoor cats are also exposed to parasites and fungal infections such as fleas, ticks, mites, intestinal worms, and ringworm. Many of these, like fleas, ticks, and ringworm, can spread to humans also.
Hazards such as busy roads, pesticides, poisons, and wild animals put your outdoor cat at risk for harm or death.
These health & safety concerns also create financial concerns, as unexpected veterinary costs from these risks can amount to a large bill.
How To Protect Your Outdoor Cat
If you choose to let your cat explore outside, there are a few steps you can take to make sure they stay as healthy as possible.
Vaccinations: Stay up-to-date on all required and recommended vaccinations such as rabies, FVRCP, FeLV, FIV, FIP, and Bordetella.
Microchip: Ask your vet about microchipping. This provides a unique identification number to your cat should they be picked up by animal control.
Prevention: Administer flea and tick prevention to keep your cat from bringing home any unwanted pests.
Supervision: If possible, keep an eye on your cat for the duration they are outside. Cats can be trained to walk on a leash with a harness!
Even when implementing all steps to keep your cat safe, there is still a risk. In addition to your cat's safety, studies have shown that outdoor cats are decimating local bird populations as well. Keeping your cat indoors helps protect the ecosystem in your area as well as your feline friend.
Keeping Your Indoor Cat Stimulated & Healthy
Indoor cats don’t have to lead mundane, boring lives. There are plenty of ways to ensure your cat is receiving enough mental stimulation and exercise indoors. The indoor vs. outdoor cat debate doesn't have to be a decision of denying your cat fun vs. putting your cat in danger.
Here are some ideas for boosting your cats happiness without compromising their safety.
Cat toys come in many shapes and sizes. Even the simplest toys provide stimulation through activation of the prey drive. It’s in your cat's nature to stalk, chase, and play, and toys are a great outlet to do so
Scratching is a natural part of your cat's routine. It keeps their claws healthy and helps get rid of debris and claw sheds. Providing your cat multiple places and surfaces to scratch is a great way to promote healthy movement and happiness.
Just like humans, cats need companions too! Having more than one cat (or any other animal that gets along with your pets) is a great way to reduce stress and eliminate boredom.