Indoor vs. Outdoor Lifestyles: Which Is Better for Your Cat?

Every cat owner will need to make the decision: indoors, outdoors, or a bit of both? For some, your living situation might make that choice for you, especially if you live in an apartment or townhome where roaming outdoors isn’t an option for your cat.

However, those with yards or back gardens will consider whether their cat should be able to access the outdoor area. Though there are pros and cons to both, one option does come with more drawbacks than the other.

Why Indoor Living Is Better for Cats

Many vets and experienced cat owners agree that indoor living is simply the safer, healthier choice for cats.

Although some owners worry that their cat’s quality of life may be decreased if they’re never allowed outdoors, there’s no data to suggest that outdoor cats or cats that toggle between both are any happier overall than indoor cats.

In fact, indoor cats are known to live an average of 10 to 15 years, while outdoor cats live an average of 2 to 5, which is a substantial difference!

Even if you’d like to let your cat roam the outdoors, the many risks associated with it shouldn’t be ignored — including for outdoor areas that are small and enclosed.

Safety and Health Risks for Outdoor Living

Cats that go outdoors are more likely to develop diseases that indoor cats simply would never be exposed to. This could include anything from various upper respiratory diseases to serious conditions like feline leukemia and immunodeficiency.

Outdoor cats are also much more likely to pick up pests. That includes fleas, tapeworms, mites, and ticks. They may also encounter the dangers of potential contact with wild animals, neighborhood strays, or cars. 

Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Healthy and Happy

You can choose to decide to keep your cat indoors for their safety. There are still many ways to provide them with the enrichment that roaming in nature can give them. For example, you can install stimulating activities and toys like scratching posts and climbing areas in your home.

If your cat is lonely, adopt a friend so that they can keep each other socialized and mentally stimulated. Some owners even leash-train their cats so that they can enjoy safe outdoor time.

Keep Up with Regular Checkups at Feline Medical Clinic

Whether your cat enjoys an indoor or outdoor lifestyle, make sure you’re always up to date on your cat’s checkups. At Feline Medical Clinic, we provide a cat-friendly environment to make your feline friend’s visit as comfortable as possible. Contact us today to schedule your next one!