According to an article in USA Today, a study commissioned by the Humane Society of the United States found that two out of three veterinarians said cats should be kept inside.
The average lifespan of a cat who is allowed to roam outside is estimated at less than three years, compared to 12–15 years for the indoor-only cat.
The two most-cited reasons: dangers from vehicles and transmittable diseases. The consensus is that cats live healthier and longer when not allowed outside.Besides the two reasons given in the study, which was based on data collected from 600 veterinarians, other incentives for keeping cats indoors are less chance of cats becoming infected with parasites or injured by other animals, reduced exposure to biting and stinging insects and lower vet bills.
And that doesn't include the neighborhood annoyance factor when your roaming cat uses your neighbors flower beds as litter boxes.
Some will question if a cat can really be happy inside 24/7.
Experts say the answer is yes, if you make its environment stimulating. Some suggestions include:
- Give your cat places to climb.
- Schedule regular play sessions.
- Use interactive toys.
- Provide scratching posts.
- Schedule daily quality time.
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