Here at Parkgate Animal Hospital, it is common for us to see outdoor cats. Letting your cat outside and knowing they will come back is a nice reassurance– and we’re sure your cat loves to explore. Take a look at the best option for your cat when it comes to going outside or staying indoors.
The consensus among veterinarians and organizations is that it’s wiser to keep cats indoors. “Considering the potential dangers outdoors, an indoor lifestyle is much safer for cats,” Brunt says. “Indoor cats have a much lower likelihood of becoming hurt or ill from outdoor hazards.”
As evidence, indoor cats live longer than their outdoor counterparts. Cats who are kept indoors can reach the ripe old age of 17 or more years, whereas outdoor cats live an average of just two to five years. Another reason for indoor cats’ longevity is that it’s easier for their owners to identify health problems early, before they become life threatening.