The Great Outdoors: Keeping Cats Safe And Happy

Cats are natural explorers, and many owners feel guilty about keeping their cats inside, worrying that they are depriving them of their natural instincts. However, letting cats outdoors comes with a host of risks, from traffic to toxic substances, animal attacks, and cruel humans. While outdoor cats get more exercise and are able to express their natural behaviours, they are also more likely to catch illnesses and parasites, and their lifespans are significantly shorter than those of indoor cats.

Cats are at risk of being hit by cars

Cats are at a significant risk of being hit by cars, with around 4% of veterinary emergency appointments for cats being attributed to road traffic collisions. This equates to approximately 230,000 cats being run over each year in the UK alone.

Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, which unfortunately aligns with peak traffic times. Their natural curiosity and exploration can also lead them into dangerous situations near roads.

Male cats are almost twice as likely to be involved in road traffic accidents than female cats, and cats under two years of age are also at a higher risk. Unneutered cats are more prone to roaming and are therefore more likely to be involved in such incidents.

To prevent cats from being hit by cars, cat-proof fencing or a catio can be installed to create a safe outdoor environment. Keeping cats indoors is the ultimate way to prevent road accidents, and reflective collars can also help increase their visibility to drivers.

Cats can catch diseases from other cats

Cats can be wonderful pets, but they can also carry and transmit diseases that can infect other cats and even humans. Here are some common diseases that cats can catch from other cats:

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

Feline leukemia is a serious and potentially fatal disease that can be transmitted between cats. It is caused by a virus that affects the cat's immune system and can lead to cancer, anemia, and other health issues.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

FIP is another deadly disease that can be spread among cats. It is caused by a coronavirus that infects the cat's intestines and can lead to inflammation and fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest.

Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia)

Feline distemper is a highly contagious virus that can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with infected cats. It causes fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and suppression of the immune system. In some cases, it can be fatal.

Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)

Upper respiratory infections are common in cats and can be easily spread through close contact with other cats. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, eye discharge, and fever. While not always fatal, these infections can cause significant discomfort and require veterinary treatment.

Gastrointestinal Worms

Worms are a common issue for cats that spend time outdoors. They can pick up these parasites from the environment or from other infected cats. Gastrointestinal worms can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and other health issues.

Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect the skin, hair, and nails of cats. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected cats or their environment. Ringworm causes circular skin lesions and can lead to hair loss and itching.

In addition to these common diseases, cats that spend time outdoors are also at risk of being exposed to toxins, poisons, and injuries from wild animals or traffic. Therefore, it is essential for cat owners to take precautions, such as regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control, to ensure the health and safety of their cats.

Cats can be exposed to toxins and poisons

There are many common household items that are toxic to cats. These include:

• Human medicines, such as antidepressants, ADHD medications, laxatives, aspirin, paracetamol, and ibuprofen
• Motoring products, such as antifreeze, brake fluid, petrol, and windscreen washer fluid
• Beauty products, such as hair dyes, nail polish, and suntan lotion
• Decorating materials, such as paint, varnish, paint remover, and wood preservatives
• Household cleaning products, such as toilet bowl cleaners, laundry detergents, drain cleaners, and carpet cleaners
• Insecticides, such as lawn and garden treatments, powders, or granules
• Flea treatments for dogs, especially those containing permethrin

Signs that your cat may have been poisoned include gastrointestinal issues such as drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhoea; neurological issues such as hiding, excitability, incoordination, tremors, seizures, lethargy, or coma; respiratory issues such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing; and skin issues such as redness, inflammation, and swelling. If you suspect your cat has been poisoned, remove them from the source of the poison, isolate them from other animals, and contact your vet immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a vet.

Cats can be stolen or subjected to animal cruelty

Cats who are allowed to roam outdoors are at risk of being stolen or subjected to animal cruelty. While it is rare, cats who are allowed to roam freely may be at risk of animal cruelty. Some people have been known to shoot cats with BB guns or arrows, while others trap, abuse, and kill cats in the name of "sport" or "fun".

In addition to animal cruelty, cats who are allowed outdoors unsupervised are vulnerable to a number of other dangers, including being hit by cars, attacked by dogs or wild animals, and ingesting toxins or poisons. They are also at a higher risk of contracting diseases such as feline leukemia, feline distemper, and upper respiratory infections.

To keep cats safe, it is recommended that cat owners provide them with a safe and stimulating indoor environment, such as by providing toys, scratching posts, and access to fresh air and sunlight. Cats can also be taken for walks outdoors on leashes or allowed to explore securely fenced yards or "catios" (outdoor cat enclosures).

By taking these precautions, cat owners can help ensure their feline companions have happy, healthy, and long lives.

Cats can get lost

When a cat is lost, it is likely that they are hiding in silence, not far from the escape point. They will not meow, as this would give up their location to a predator. They will seek out areas of concealment, such as under a deck, house, porch, or in heavy brush.

If your cat is lost, the first step is to search the area. Crouch low and scan high—lost cats can be found anywhere from under porches to up in trees. Think like a cat—where would they go? What are their favourite hiding spots? It's also a good idea to let your neighbours know, as cats rarely stray far from home.

There are a few things you can do to increase the chances of finding your lost cat. Put out food and water, as hungry cats often slink out after dark. Leave a baby monitor near the food to detect faint meows. Set up a trap, or a wildlife camera to confirm their location. Put up posters, spread the word on social media, and call local veterinary clinics and shelters.

To prevent your cat from getting lost, make sure they have a collar and identification tags. You can also get them microchipped, so that a vet or shelter can identify them if they are found.

Frequently asked questions