november 10, 2021 Back Home

7 Ways to Keep Your Outdoor Cat Safe

If you have a cat that loves to be outdoors, or occasionally likes to explore, you may be concerned about her safety—with good reason.

From predators to cars, outdoor cats face real dangers. The kind that could cause your kitty harm, and will absolutely keep you up at night if she doesn’t come home.

While keeping your cat completely indoors may not be feasible, there are some things you can do to keep your outdoor cat as safe as possible.

How to take care of an outdoor cat

1. Take a Stroll…Together

Why should dog lovers have all the fun? Get a harness and a leash and go for a walk around the block. Plenty of outdoor cats enjoy safe leash time with their humans—and it’s good for your health, too!

2. Consider a “Catio”

Giving your cat access to an outdoor enclosure is the best of both worlds. Fluffy gets to breathe fresh air and chatter at the birds, and you get to rest easy knowing that your feline friend is safe from danger.

Click here for tips on building your cat’s dream catio.

The World’s Best Guide to Catios
Want a safe way for your cat to enjoy the outdoors? Have you considered a catio? Learn why a catio may be a great option for your outdoor-loving cat.

3. Play Traffic Inspector

Your cat may be quick, but she’s no match for a speeding car. Take a good, honest look at your neighborhood traffic—keeping in mind that the average outdoor cat will roam a 2-acre area—and weigh the risks.

4. Enforce a Curfew

Nighttime is the most dangerous time for outdoor cats — it’s when predators like owls and coyotes are most likely to be on the loose. If your outdoor cat keeps giving you grief about coming home, consider using treats to entice them inside before it gets dark.

5. Visit the Vet

Vaccines are essential for keeping any cat happy and healthy, but they’re especially important for outdoor cats. Outdoor cats are at risk for diseases like feline leukemia, distemper, and upper respiratory infections—not to mention fleas and other pests.

Vaccines can’t guarantee your outdoor cat’s safety and health, but they’re a step in the right direction.

When Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?
Cats, like humans, require regular, preventative care to ensure they live a long healthy life. If you’re unsure of when to take your cat to the vet, remember that preventative care is far better, and cheaper, than reactive care. Don’t wait, schedule an appointment today.

6. Give Your Outdoor Cat a Safe Collar and ID

Choose a collar with a safety clasp that will come undone if it gets snagged on something, to reduce the danger of strangulation. And, make sure she’s wearing tags with her name and your contact information.

7. Get a GPS Tracker

Multiple brands are now offering pet tracking devices that allow you to monitor the whereabouts of your cat when she is outside. While it won’t protect them from dangers, you’ll know where they are and where they go.

If you do decide to let them go out to play, remember there is no 100% guaranteed way to keep your outdoor cat safe.

If you decide that unsupervised outdoor time is essential for your cat’s wellbeing, know the risks and take a few precautions to increase the odds of your cat living a long, healthy life.

And remember, if your cat does in fact stray too far, you may be able to use your litter box to help lure them home. Just be sure to keep an eye on any predators or other animals it may attract before leaving it out too long.

How to Use the Litter Box to Find Your Lost Cat
Putting your cat’s litter box outside, as well as familiar items like laundry and toys, can help lure your lost feline home.