A Note on Outdoor Cats...
- Katie Virtue
- Mar 29
- 1 min read
As tempting as it can be to let cats roam in the fresh spring air, the outdoors comes with far more risk than reward. Traffic, toxins, parasites, and encounters with other animals can turn a simple outing into an emergency or sudden heartbreak.
Did You Know?
The life expectancy of indoor cats is 12-18 years, while outdoor cats average just 2-5 years.
It's true! Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives with far fewer vet bills and heartbreak. The good news is that with open windows (and secure screens), sunny perches, and a bit of enrichment, cats can enjoy everything spring has to offer without ever stepping outside.
If you have a cat who is determined to be outside, you should know that every outing has the potential to be life-threatening. In fact, cars are the #1 cause of accidental death for outdoor cats.
Make sure your outdoor cat is:
Spayed or neutered
Up to date on all vaccinations, including rabies
On monthly flea/tick/heartworm preventatives, year-round
Microchipped with current information, AND
Wearing a collar with correct identification tags
Many cats look very similar! Keep plenty of current photos in your phone of your cat from all angles in case distinctive markings are needed to identify your cat.
My # 1 advice for outdoor cats? Become indoor cats.
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