INFORMATION
Keeping your kitten safe
Many people have asked me about whether or not to allow their kittens to roam free.
In todays fast world it is difficult to balance the cats natural desire to explore and hunt with the perils of free roaming in todays fast society.
Having owned moggies for a number of years and presuming they could roam free safely,
I have found that a cat living in a quiet suburb can still be put at risk. In fact we lost two cats to cars whilst living in the village
on a quite road which prompted us to look into alternatives. In opposition my mother had a cat for twenty years and she lived on a major road
and went out daily.
So is there an answer? It is now possible for you to buy cat proof fencing to put around you garden.
Although initially expensive, it will save in the long term. You could, off course, make your own version.
Not only does it give freedom to roam and hunt in a safe environment, but also keep other cats out, another significant danger
as stray and unvaccinated cats can carry a multitude of viruses, some fatal, to pass onto your cat.
Alternatively a combination of freedom indoors and a cat run outside can, depending on size be an alternative solution.
Keeping a cat indoors is never really ideal for a cat, but like us they learn to adapt, and provided they are given enough stimulation,
is a successful outcome handy if you live in an apartment. There is always the cat harness to get your cat out into the fresh air.
Or the extreme is to do as I did move to the country away from roads and people
The problem with free roaming is not only the threat of traffic, but disease and injury from cats and dogs and also theft
if your cat is a little unusual someone will want him. Also many cats each year are stolen and sold to labs.
It is acknowledged that some breeds including Abyssinian are not suited to the great outdoors. Some breeders will not allow
pedigree kittens of any breed to be sold to a home where the cat will be left to roam unsupervised.
There is no right answer, just up to you. Weigh up the consequences including the vet bills for accidents, and even public
liability if your cat causes an accident, insurance and cost of replacement? and the heartbreak. Look at your budget
and create the best and safest choice for your new kitten.
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For more details contact me