Living their best life indoors 

Allowing your cat to roam outdoors can actually significantly shorten their lives by exposing them to potentially deadly risk and dangers.

Parasites, catching diseases from other cats, being hit by cars, stolen, attacked by predators, or just plain getting lost are constant threats to an outdoor cat.  There is also the serious risk that they impose on our local wildlife.

Safe ways for your cat to enjoy the outdoors

• If your cat is agreeable, train them to walk on a cat harness and lead and take them into the yard for a stroll. 
• Think about building a screened-in enclosure attached to the house where your cat can benefit from everything ‘outdoor’ without any risk.

Wildlife

If you are still on the fence about keeping your cat inside, consider the welfare of your neighbourhood's wildlife. A cat’s hunting instinct is just that – an instinct. Even well fed pet cats who are allowed to roam outdoors may attempt to prey on smaller animals, with varying levels of success. If your cat can live a safe, fulfilled life indoors, why risk it? 

Ways to keep your indoor cat happy

• A cat’s play is all based on the hunting instinct, so give them plenty of toys to stalk, chase, pounce on, and kill.  You can keep it simple - a ball of aluminium foil and a paper bag can provide endless fun for your feline friend.
• Cats like to observe their world from above, so give or make your feline friend a cat tree or kitty jungle to climb.
• Give them a sunny window so they can watch the birds or bask in the sunbeams.  Just ensure the screen is very secure before opening the window.
• Grow cat grass for them to chew on.
• Give them lots of your time and attention.
• Think about whether your cat may benefit from a cat friend.

Microchip & vaccinations

Just remember, even if your cat is 'indoor only', ensure that their microchip details and vaccinations are kept up to date. In the event of an accidental escape, they are still at risk of picking up diseases in your backyard from neighbouring cats and a microchip is the quickest way to have your pet returned to you.