Anyone that really knows cats can tell you they’re not entirely domestic. Let a mouse run by and see what happens or watch what your feline friend does when a bird flies by the window.
Indoor cats love to chase string, jump, climb and claw. Even though we’ve been ‘domesticating’ them for a long time, there’s something innately rambunctious and wild in young, healthy cats.
This innate wildness is probably why so many people let their cats venture outside, even though most know that the hazards that accompany being outdoors significantly shortens their lives.
While we can’t fully protect them when they’re out on the prowl, we can do things to help ensure we’re doing our best to keep an indoor/outdoor cat as healthy as he or she can be.
1) All cats that go outdoors should be vaccinated against Feline Leukemia Virus – it’s usually fatal once established but a simple annual vaccine provides good protection
2) Microchip your cat and have an ID tag on their collar so he or she is identifiable if trapped, found or injured
3) Keep your cat’s other vaccinations up-to-date, such as Rabies and the FVRCP (called the feline distemper virus)
4) Have your cat on a heartworm, flea and intestinal parasite preventative such as Revolution
5) Make sure your cat is examined by your family veterinarian every 6-12 months to ensure that they remain healthy
6) Annual FIV/FeLV testing is essential – if your cat is positive for either virus, the outside poses a threat to their immune systems and they pose a threat as they will perpetuate the spread of these viruses
Urban Animal doesn’t judge whether cats should be indoors only or inside and out. We’re here to bolster your companion animal’s health regardless of the life they live when the sun goes down. Call us to schedule an appointment or consultation so we can help your companion feline live his or her life to the fullest!
