Letting Cats Outside: Should You Let Your Indoor Cat Out?

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

Many new cat owners ask whether letting cats outside is ok. The opinions of pet owners are strong and varied.

Let's look at indoors vs outdoors for Maine Coons.

It's a question all cat owners must ask themselves; "Should I let my cats outside?" Lets take a closer look.

Changing Perspectives

Personally, I have been on both sides of this topic. I grew up in a small city, and our cats always went outside when I was a kid.

They were careful about crossing the street, and mostly stayed in the yard. They all lived full lives as well.

But now, as the owner of two great Maine Coon cats, we keep them indoors. Our breeder specified it, and I agreed. You may wonder why I see things differently now.

Historical View on Letting Cats Outside

In the past, it was common to let cats roam freely outside. People believed that cats needed to explore the great outdoors to stay healthy and happy.

Cats were often seen hunting, climbing trees, and enjoying the fresh air. This was especially true in rural areas where the dangers of traffic and urban life were less of a concern.

For many years, the popular belief that cats belonged both indoors and outdoors was rarely questioned. It was simply the way things were done.

How Perspectives Have Shifted with Modern Pet Care Awareness

Over time, our understanding of pet care has evolved. Today, we know much more about the risks that outdoor life poses to cats.

---

Influence of Breeders, Veterinarians, and Animal Welfare Organizations

Breeders, veterinarians, and animal welfare organizations have played a big role in this shift. Reputable breeders often require new cat owners to agree to keep their cats indoors.

They understand that this is the best way to ensure the health and safety of the cats they raise.

Veterinarians, with their firsthand experience treating sick or injured outdoor cats, frequently advise owners to keep their pets inside.

---

Benefits of Letting Cats Outside

Natural Behavior and Instinctual Fulfillment

For many pet parents, letting cats explore the outside world seems like a great way to let them follow their natural instincts.

Cats, whether they are domestic cats or feral cats, have an innate desire to hunt, climb, and roam.

These behaviors are part of their DNA. When allowed outside, cats can engage in activities like stalking birds, chasing insects, and climbing trees.

These activities fulfill their natural instincts and can make them feel more like their wild ancestors.

For first-time cat owners, seeing their feline friends exhibit these behaviors can be both fascinating and rewarding.

Physical Exercise and Mental Stimulation

The outside world offers a lot of opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation.

Adult cats that go outside are more likely to stay active, which helps keep them fit and healthy.

Social Interaction with Other Animals

Another benefit of letting cats outside is the chance for social interaction with other animals. In the wild, cats are solitary hunters, but domestic cats often enjoy some level of social interaction.

When allowed outside, they can meet other cats and even other animals, like friendly dogs or curious squirrels.

This can be especially beneficial for cats that live alone without other pets at home.

Meeting other cats can help them learn social cues and behaviors. They may play, communicate, or simply observe each other from a distance.

This social interaction can be enriching, as it adds variety to their lives and can help them develop a broader range of social skills.

However, it's important for pet parents to remember that not all interactions will be positive, so monitoring these encounters is essential.

In summary, letting cats outside can provide significant benefits. It allows them to engage in natural behaviors, get plenty of exercise, and interact with other animals.

For both first-time cat owners and seasoned pet parents, understanding these benefits can help make informed decisions about their cat's lifestyle.

By considering the ways the outside world can enhance their cat's life, pet parents can create a fulfilling environment for their feline friends.

---

Risks of Letting Cats Outside

Health Risks

Exposure to diseases: Feline Distemper, Upper Respiratory Infections, FELV, FIV, FIP

When cats explore the outside world, they are exposed to many diseases that can harm them. Feline Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious and often deadly disease.

Parasites: fleas, ticks, worms, Lyme disease, heartworms

Outdoor cats are at a high risk of getting parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms.

Fleas can cause itchy skin and spread other diseases, while ticks can transmit Lyme disease, which is dangerous for both cats and humans.

Intestinal worms, such as roundworms and tapeworms, can live in a cat’s intestines, stealing nutrients and making them sick.

Heartworms, spread by mosquitoes, are particularly dangerous as they can cause severe heart and lung problems.

Safety Risks

Traffic accidents

One of the biggest potential dangers for outdoor cats is traffic. Cats are quick and curious, but they don’t always understand the danger of busy streets.

Many cats get hit by cars each year, leading to serious injuries or death.

Attacks by dogs and wild animals

Poisoning (accidental and intentional)

Cats that roam outside can accidentally get poisoned by things like antifreeze, pesticides, or poisonous plants.

Unfortunately, there are also cases where people intentionally poison cats, causing them immense suffering.

Human-related Risks

Getting lost or picked up by Animal Control or well-meaning cat lovers

Outdoor cats can easily get lost in a new environment. They might wander too far and not be able to find their way back home.

Sometimes, well-meaning cat lovers or Animal Control may pick up a cat, thinking it’s a stray, which can lead to the cat being taken far from home or put in a shelter.

Theft for sadistic purposes or laboratory use

Sadly, not everyone has good intentions. Some people steal cats for cruel reasons, including sadistic purposes or selling them to laboratories for experiments.

This is hard to fathom, and something that pet lovers don't want to think about.

Keeping cats indoors gives pet parents more peace of mind about their furry friend's safety.

Environmental and Social Risks

Impact on wildlife

Cats are natural hunters, and when they are outside, they can significantly impact local wildlife.

Birds, small mammals, and reptiles are often preyed upon by cats, which can upset the natural balance in an area.

Roaming into neighbors' yards and causing disturbances

Cats that roam freely can wander into neighbors' yards, leading to conflicts.

---

Life Expectancy Comparison

Statistics on the Lifespan of Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats

The lifespan of pet cats can vary greatly depending on whether they live indoors or outdoors.

Indoor cats generally live much longer than their outdoor counterparts. On average, indoor cats live between 12 to 15 years, with many reaching 20 years or more.

In contrast, an outdoor kitty has a much shorter lifespan, typically living only 4 to 5 years.

Factors Contributing to the Longer Life Expectancy of Indoor Cats

Several factors contribute to the longer life expectancy of indoor cats.

---

Indoor Enrichment and Alternatives to Outdoor Access

There are plenty of easy ways to keep your indoor kitty happy and fulfilled!

Creating a Stimulating Indoor Environment

To ensure a happy life for your cat, creating a stimulating indoor environment is key.

This helps keep them mentally and physically active, reducing boredom and stress.

By providing plenty of activities and cozy spots, you can make their indoor space as exciting as the outside world.

Interactive Toys, Climbing Structures, and Window Perches

The Concept and Benefits of Outdoor Cat Enclosures

Outdoor cat enclosures are a safe way to give your cat outdoor time.

These structures, sometimes known as "catios," provide a secure space where your cat can enjoy the fresh air and sights of the outside world without the risks.

They can be attached to a window or a screened-in porch, offering your cat a safe way to experience outdoor access.

Leash Training for Controlled Outdoor Experiences

Leash training is another option for giving your cat a taste of the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) About Letting Cats Outside:

Top of Letting Cats Outside

« Back to Maine Coon Care