How To Keep Cats Safe Outdoors
Cats are extremely curious… and have no idea of the danger. Therefore, as pet owners, we must pay close attention and protect our pussies. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to keep cats safe when outdoors.
Should cats leave the house?
This is one of the common questions among people who have just adopted a cat and live in a city. And while this depends on the individual owner, the truth is that you must make a decision while the pet is still small and stick to it over time.
Stray cats generally live shorter lives because they are more likely to get diseased. As a downside, indoor cats are often more obese and sedentary, and some even lose some of their typical ‘instinct’ and curiosity.
Pros and cons of letting cats out
Unlike dogs, cats are independent beings who need some freedom. And that means letting them go outside so they’re happier. These ‘escapes’ – accepted or not by the owners – are the stimulus they need to feel safe.
Another advantage of letting our cat go out on the street is that he will probably do his chores on the lawn or on the terrace. This way you will avoid using the sandbox or changing the sand every day.
Being outdoors will not only allow him to climb trees or roofs, it will also provide the right environment for him to mark the territory. And that way, he won’t attack your furniture or urinate all over the house.
Of course, not everything is perfect when letting your cat out, as being outdoors makes it more prone to contagious diseases such as the feline immunodeficiency virus or rabies. Also, we can’t ignore that he could have more fleas and ticks than if he just stayed indoors.
Safe Outdoor Cats: Is It Possible?
If you have decided to let your pet come into contact with the outside world, you must take certain precautions in order to protect it from any danger:
1. Put on a collar with a card or nameplate
Some cats don’t ‘accept’ the collar, so you’ll need to wear an identifying breastplate. It is necessary that the sign does not make noise, as this would attract the dogs’ attention!
2. Put a microchip in the cat
In some countries or cities it is mandatory to identify pets with these devices, as they cannot be easily removed, such as plates or collars.
3. Castre
Regardless of whether it is female or male, it is essential that the cat is neutered. That way, you’ll prevent your pet from getting pregnant or getting hurt by fighting with other cats.
In addition, neutered animals generally live longer and are quieter.
4. Give all vaccinations
Safe cats are not cats that don’t leave the house, but cats that are protected from any disease. Therefore, we recommend that you adhere to the vaccination schedule and also use the pipette or the flea and tick treatment that you feel is appropriate.
5. Allow it to gradually exit
It’s not about leaving the door open for him to leave and come back whenever he wants. A good technique is to wear a collar so that it gradually comes into contact with the outside. And for the first few moments, you should monitor it so it doesn’t go too far.
You shouldn’t worry if your cat leaves the house because its senses are well developed for it to come back safe and sound. Either way, take steps to keep your cats safe and thus minimize the possible complications of your outdoor forays.
