Why your cat will be much happier living indoors

If you've recently made the decision to adopt a cat, one of your biggest decisions as a new pet parent is deciding whether or not you will allow your feline to venture outdoors without supervision. While it may seem cruel at first to deny your cat the enjoyment of freely rolling around in the grass, there are far too many risks that could put your cat's health at risk. Here are a few reasons why it's best to keep your feline inside.

1. Animal risks. Even if you don't live in a heavily-wooded area, there are countless other animals that could be threatening to your cat. For instance, raccoons, skunks, unfriendly dogs and even feral cats can choose to pick a fight with your feline. Additionally, these animals could expose your feline to ailments like feline HIV, rabies and parasites that could cause your pet great discomfort and could be life-threatening.

2. Environmental hazards. Being allowed to roam outside could allow your cat to run into a variety of risky industrial hazards. For instance, a car leaking antifreeze could poison your cat if he or she happens to lick the sweet substance off the ground. Rodent traps and other devices could also pose a poison risk, or your cat could end up caught in one accidentally.

3. Oncoming cars. The thought of your cat being hit by a car is probably too much to bear, but this is a huge concern if you allow your furry companion to go outside. Due to their small size and propensity to dart in front of traffic when frightened, cats are usually the household pets that are hit most often by vehicles.

4. Life expectancy. The myriad risks that could befall outdoor cats can severely limit their lifespan. According to MyFoxHouston.com, indoor cats will live anywhere between 12 to 16 years, while outdoor cats will live between three and five years on average.

It's simply not worth it to let your cat go outdoors, whether you live in an urban or rural area. If you'd like a bit more guidance about your feline's pet care, consider making an appointment at a Bideawee Animal Hospital to ensure that your cat is in tip-top shape.