Should you allow your cat to wander outdoors? Aside from declawing, this question is often one of the most difficult ones a cat owner will face. Below, the veterinarians at Texas County Veterinary Clinic in Houston, MO, take an objective look at a few of the pros and cons surrounding the debate. 

Keeping Your Cat Inside

Pros

The most significant consideration when deciding whether to allow your cat outside is safety. A cat that is kept indoors is obviously less likely to have encounters with motor vehicles, get into spats with other animals, and contract illnesses such as feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus.

Cons

Cats that are kept indoors can become dependent on their owners for stimulation, resulting in added stress levels during periods of the owner’s absence, as well as the added potential for “clingy” behavior when the owner is home. Furthermore, cats must be provided opportunities for exercise (playtime) to ensure optimal health levels. This can often prove more difficult in an indoor setting. 

Letting Your Cat Outside

Pros

Cats that are allowed to roam outdoors have far more opportunities to get adequate exercise. Additionally, time spent outside can promote mental health, as it provides cats with added stimulation and time to explore.

Cons

Allowing your indoor cat outside equates to a higher risk of fleas, posing a health concern to the cat as well as its owner. Even cats who are only allowed outdoors every so often will require additional care and pet vaccines to combat the occurrence of feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus, both of which are fatal and highly contagious.

Declawed Cats

As a general rule, indoor cats that have been declawed should not be permitted to roam outside unsupervised. A cat’s claws are their main defense against larger predators. Without them, cats are extremely vulnerable.

If you require quality veterinary care in Houston, MO, Texas County Veterinary Clinic is the pet hospital for you. From pet health exams and vaccines to emergency vet service, you can depend on this team of veterinarians for the friendly, professional service you and your pet deserve. Visit the practice on online or call (417) 967-3857 to speak with one of their knowledgeable staff members.