| There are various arguments for and against keeping cat indoors. Their health and safety as well as the well-being of those wild animals they would ordinarily prey on, are two very valid arguments for keeping them indoors, but there is also the school of thought that cats deserve to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors where they can act naturally.
There are various benefits – both to you and your cat – linked to keeping your beloved feline indoors. Benefits to the cat include adding as many as ten to fifteen years to his/her lifespan, better health, fewer injuries, infections and illnesses, and a safer more comfortable environment. What would you gain personally? Fewer visits to the vet, reduced risk of transmittable diseases (especially for pregnant women), a flea-free zone, appreciative neighbours and the peace of mind knowing that your cat is safe.
Cats are, however, curious by nature and need to be given adequate stimulation to ensure that your furniture and curtains do not become their favourite toys.
- Step number one would be to clip your cat's nails – never clip an outdoors cat's nails as they are used in self-defence.
- Ensure that your cat has a resting shelf or high perch close to window so that he/she can see outside.
- Clean your cat's litter daily.
- An open screened window will provide access to the smells and sounds of the outdoors.
- Keep lots of different toys to ensure that your cat gets stimulation. Include bags and boxes, balls and small objects your cat can chase as well as items such as catnip stuffed mice. Rotate the toys – that way there is always a supply of interesting “new” toys available to amuse your cat. Hide treats and toys around the house and make sure that you have some toys that you and your cat can enjoy together – toys dangling from a fishing pole for example would provide hours of enjoyment. Interesting toys will also ensure that your indoor cat gets the exercise it requires.
Another good investment would be a scratching post or something similar. Cats love to scratch and this keeps their claws sharp and provides a good stretch. Should you not provide this type of activity, your feline cat could look for alternative “scratching posts” such as furniture, to fulfil this need.
While the argument still exists that cats should be allowed freedom and should have access to the great outdoors, it is important to take the following risks into consideration. An outdoor cat runs the risk of being hit by a car or drinking commonly accessible poisons. In addition, it could contract a serious or incurable disease such as feline leukaemia, distemper or FIV (cat HIV) through cat fights. There are many cruel humans out there and your cat is at risk of being trapped, deliberately poisoned, stolen or treated inhumanely. Illnesses such as tularaemia and toxoplasmosis can be contracted from consuming a wild bird, mammal, reptile or amphibian.
Finally, make sure that your cat wears identification, if he/she goes outside.
Visit www. petwise.co.za and read more about pet nutrition and pet care. You can also learn about reliable manufacturers in the pet food industry, who are also members of the Pet Food Industry (PFI) Association. |
