Do you let your cat go outdoors? Kitties definitely enjoy getting some fresh air and sunshine. They also love fun outdoor activities like rolling around in the grass and chasing butterflies. However, they are both safer and healthier inside. Here, a Marietta, GA vet discusses keeping Fluffy indoors.
Dangers of Going Outside
Our feline friends may think they are tough, ferocious predators, but in reality, they are very small and vulnerable. Kitties that go outdoors are much more likely to get hurt, lost, or even killed, than indoor pets. As soon as your pet sets her adorable paws outdoors, she is exposed to many different dangers, such as cars, weather, chemicals, and other animals. In summer, heat and storms can also endanger your pet. And, if that weren’t enough, there’s also the possibility of Fluffy getting trapped somewhere.
Convincing Fluffy To Stay In
If you try to tell Fluffy why she should stay inside, she’ll probably just blink and yawn at you. Therefore, you’ll need to make your adventurous little pet rethink the pros and cons of outdoor adventures. One way to do this is to make her wary of the door. Whenever your kitty starts sniffing around the entrance, squirt her with water or make a loud noise. These things won’t hurt your furball, but they will startle her, and may make her a bit leery of going too close to the door. However, you should never punish your cat for trying to get outside. This could backfire, and make her even more determined to slip out!
Make The Indoor Life Fun
If you want to keep Fluffy indoors, you’ll need to make the indoor life fun and interesting for her. Fortunately, this is pretty easy to do. Offer your kitty plenty of cozy beds to snuggle up in, and give her some pet furniture, like a cat tower or pet tent. Your cat will also enjoy a comfy window seat with a good view. Make sure your furball has plenty of toys, and play with her regularly. If you want to give your furry pal a taste of nature, turn a spare room or patio into a catio by adding cat furniture and pet-safe plants. Check the ASPCA website for good options.
Do you have questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your Marietta, GA pet hospital, anytime!
