Indoors vs Outdoors

Hello everyone,

I have spent all off my life as an indoor cat; it’s a great way to live. However for some humans the decision to raise a cat as indoor cat or an outdoor cat can be a difficult decision. So I thought we would make a pro and con list for indoor verses outdoor cats.

• Some humans may live in an apartment block on a busy road which can be life threatening for outdoor cats. Most cats have little to no awareness of a moving motor vehicle. Cars are the most common reason outdoor cats lost their lives; this is a sad but true fact. Indoor cats are safe from being hit by cars.

• Indoor cats are not at risk of being injured by other animals such as dogs, foxes or other cats.

• Outdoor cats are at risk off getting lost or worst still picked up by animal control.

• Outdoor cats may bring a treat home for their humans such as a dead bird or mouse. I am told humans do not view such a gift favourably.

• Outdoor cats are risk to contract parasites such as fleas or ticks. Those are not very preppy!

• There are many myths that indoor cats are predisposed to having a weight problems because we do not get the exercise that we need.  Firstly, I do not have a weight problem I am just big boned and have a thick fur coat that is all. Stop lying N2 you're fat and you know it! No I'm not Kona .

• Sorry about that everyone, Kona always tries to take over but I'm not going to let her. You can bring the outdoor life instead by ensuring your home is as stimulating as possible for cats. I spoke about some ideas to keep preppy felines entertained in an earlier blog so you may wish to refer back to that.

• Indoor cats live an average 10-17 years while outdoor cats live an average 2-5 years.

• You can teach your cat indoor cat to walk on leash, just be sure to use an ultra-lightweight, retractable leash that's attached to a harness, not a collar. I suggest letting your cat get used to the harness for short periods indoors. Always reward your cat with tantalizing cat treat at the conclusion of each training session. Once you feel your cat is comfortable, pick a safe outdoor area to explore with them on the leash. This gives them the best of both worlds, they are safe from hazards and sharing moments with you!

 

Stay Preppy

Love N2

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