Out and About: The Good and Bad of Having an Outdoor Cat

Do you love having a fluffy buddy as your pet but cannot keep it inside your home? Keeping an outdoor cat can be your purr-fect companion. Scroll through the article for a bird’ s-eye view of the pros and cons of having an outdoor cat.

Pros of Outdoor Cats

Following are a few of the advantages.

Freedom and Independence

The curious feline creatures have a natural tendency to explore and hunt. Indoor cats may become restless or bored due to the absence of stimulus. Contrarily, outdoor cats get the liberty to explore their surroundings.

Following their natural instincts, like climbing trees and hunting, cats are expected to lead a more fulfilling and enriched life.

Moreover, outdoor cats can interact with neighborhood cats. It contributes to their emotional and mental well-being in the longer run, paving the way for a healthier and happier cat. Thus, it gives a major edge to the owners who want their cats to opt for a more natural lifestyle.

Reduced Litterbox Odor

Are you reluctant to have a cat because of its stinky litter box? Do not worry! Keeping an outdoor cat will save you from trouble.

You do not need to constantly clean out the sandbox, as these cats have access to natural areas where they can do their business, whether in your yard or nearby bushes and plants.

It can be a huge relief for those sensitive to strong smells or who have guests over often. It also means less mess and maintenance for you, freeing up time and energy for other activities.

Natural Pest Control

Are you tired of the pesky rodents coming from your backyard garden? In this case, your furry friend can come to the rescue.

With a knack for hunting, outdoor cats can help keep your place free from pests. They relieve you as you no longer need harmful chemicals to kill these rodents and insects.

The outdoor cats can also keep the rodent population in check, preventing them from entering your home while avoiding spreading diseases and property damage.

Cons of Outdoor Cats

The disadvantages of having outdoor cats are listed below.

Poor Quality of Health

If your purring pal spends most of its time outdoors, there is a high chance that it might catch infections. Various instances have been reported in which ticks and fleas damaged the cats’ health and acted as carriers for spreading different diseases.

Not to overlook the fact that the resultant expensive medical bills and emotional distress may add fuel to the fire.

Reduced Life Expectancy

Cats Have Nine Lives. Even though this phrase is just an expression, outdoor cats are more prone to injuries and illnesses. It is due to exposure to other animals and potential toxins. They may fight with other neighborhood cats, encounter predators ( dogs, coyotes, or birds of prey), or be hit by vehicles while crossing roads.

Conclusion

Certain things need to be kept in mind when choosing an outdoor pawsome pal, from personal lifestyle to the cat’s health and personality to the availability of a safe outdoor environment, to ensure that both of you enjoy a good time together.