Many people think cats should not be indoor-only pets, that they need to roam, to answer the call of nature, to hunt and to dig.
Cats who are allowed to roam are subject to all the hazards of the outdoors including parasites, disease and injuries from other cats, not to mention death from coyotes, cars, dogs, abuse, frostbite, dehydration and poisons.
The average life span of an indoor cat is between 12 and 15 years, compared to the 2 and 5 years of an outdoor cat.
Keeping cats indoors also eliminates problems incurred when cats roam neighbouring property. Often annoying cat behaviours such as digging, meowing, mating or spraying are the cause of neighbourhood disputes, as well as possible impoundment and fines.
Indoor-only cats also protect local bird populations, which suffer from the hunting instinct of cats.
It’s our responsibility to set rules for feline behaviour and act in the best interest of our cat, even if kitty is showing a persistent interest in going outside. Alternatively, cat runs and modified fencing can give your cat the freedom of being outside and the safety of being kept in your yard. Many cats can also be leash-trained.
Ultimately, choosing to keep your cats as indoor-only pets will increase their mortality rates and decrease your veterinary bill! Indoor-only cats are not suffering and, with a bit of attention and play time, can remain healthy and active members of your family for years to come.
The MEOW Foundation is a no-kill cat rescue charity operating in the Calgary area. MEOW has helped thousands of homeless cats since 2000.
www.meowfoundation.com
(403) 230-6033
