Steps to take before allowing your cat outdoors

Cat containment vs. the great outdoors

You've probably heard our rap on allowing your cat to roam outdoors. The abridged version? Don't do it! The great outdoors isn't so great for domestic felines, who are more likely to be exposed to infectious diseases than their indoors-only counterparts. Cats who spend time outside may also encounter wildlife and off-leash neighborhood dogs--as well as smaller, equally problematic critters, such as fleas and ticks. And an estimated five million cats die from car accidents each year. Life is a lot cozier, and safer, on the inside...

Proper cat fencing outside

...unless, of course, you exercise your option to let your kitty exercise in your fenced-in backyard or enclosure.

Are you the proud parent of a cat who tends to channel his excess energy into undesirable behaviors, such as using the new couch as his personal nail file or attacking your ankles? Or perhaps you've got a couch potato who could use some extra motivation to exercise. Spending time in a safe, secure backyard enclosure can open up a whole new world for your feline companion. You can build your own by securing chicken wire or wire hardware to a simple wood frame. Be sure to include shelves and furniture for climbing and resting. For extra durability, We recommend using chicken wire or wire hardware cloth rather than regular window screening. If you have a fenced-in yard, you'll need to add cat-proof netting before allowing Fluffy outside.

Don't forget vaccinations and cat flower bed fencing

So, you've completed the first requirement for a fenced-in backyard or enclosure? Your cat is almost ready to go out. Once you've taken the following precautions to ensure a safe outdoors adventure for your pet, she's home free:

•  An up-to-date vaccination record is important for indoor cats, but it's absolutely crucial to the health of cats who are allowed outside.
• Will you be letting Sunshine out in warmer weather? Then please make sure she always has access to fresh water and a shaded area to which she can retreat.
• Is your cat spayed or neutered? Unneutered males may learn to spray indoors if they smell another cat's marking scent or a female in heat. On the flip side, if you allow your unspayed female outside when she's in heat, she may attract some unwelcome visitors—i.e. stray toms or neighborhood male cats who are allowed to roam. Yet another reason to make that appointment with the veterinarian!
• And finally, we recommend that you supervise your pet at all times when she is in her enclosure or roaming in your fenced-in yard. If you can't remain outside with her, bring her in the house.