Cat Safety

According to The Humane Society of the United States, cats that are allowed to roam freely
outdoors may live for only two to five years, whereas cats that are protected from the dangers
of the outdoors often live past the age of 17.*

What are the dangers to cats of being outdoors?  Here is a list of the most worrisome:

• Predators such as coyotes, dogs, and wolves
• Cars and other motor vehicles
• Fights with other cats
• Feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency, and West Nile Virus
• Fleas, ticks, and other parasites
• Pesticides, fertilizers, and other lawn chemicals
• Antifreeze, tar, and other industrial chemicals
• Sadistic children or adults
• Pet thieves

By limiting your cat's outdoor exposure to a secure enclosure, you can eliminate most of these
risks or at least minimize the likelihood of their occurrence.  Your cat will still be able to enjoy
the fresh air, the warm sun, and the visual and auditory sensations of being outside, such as
birds chirping and leaves fluttering in the wind.  That level of stimulation is adequate to satisfy
most cats, even those with the most strongly independent personalities.

*Reference:  "Spreading the Safe Cats Message from Coast to Coast", HSUS, April 21, 2004