By Dr. Sonnya Crawford
Grays Harbor Veterinary Clinic
There are plenty of reasons veterinarians recommend that cats be strictly indoor pets. Here are just a few:
• House cats are not native to the United States; they are a human-introduced predatory species that disrupts nature’s balance. They kill native birds and wildlife.
• The outdoors is a dangerous place for our feline friends. They are exposed to contagious diseases, most of which are fatal. Many cats are victims of vehicle injury and are exposed to poisons, leg-hold traps, and abscesses resulting from cat fights.
• The average life span of an outdoor cat is two to three years. An indoor cat can live 15 years or more.
It is best to keep your cat indoors from the beginning. Although older cats can become accustomed to living in the house, the transition can be difficult, with yowling and attempts to escape. Most cats that grow up inside show no inclination to leave the safety of the home.
It isn’t difficult to transform the house into a cat paradise. If your floor space is limited, expand upward with kitty condos, climbing trees, perches and cat shelves. Cat wall-climbing shelves allow your cats to explore and lounge up high, which they love. Catsplay.com sells easy-to-install kits — or, if you are a do-it-yourselfer, there are many ideas and designs on Pinterest.
Cats are vulnerable while sleeping and prefer to rest in areas where they feel safe and secure. A room or area of their own is appreciated. Offer a cat oasis in a quiet, comfortable location where your cat can escape from the rest of the family. Include food, water and litterbox in their safe space. Although you can buy cat beds, a simple towel or blanket will do just fine.
Remember, don’t disturb your cats when they are sleeping. You don’t like to be bothered when you are asleep, right? Respect their privacy when they are resting, and they will be more likely to seek you out when they’re ready to interact.
Most important, make sure you have plenty of litterboxes and clean them daily. This is probably the single most important thing you can do to reduce stress, inappropriate urination and behavioral issues. The rule of thumb is one litterbox per cat, plus one. If you have two cats, you’ll need three boxes. If you have three cats, you’ll need four boxes.
Humans were responsible for domesticating cats, and therefore we are now responsible for their health and safety. Don’t gamble with your cats’ lives. Keep them indoors where they are safer, healthier and happier.
Sonnya Crawford, DVM, is a veterinarian at Grays Harbor Veterinary Services in Montesano. Her pets include two cats, numerous parrots, a giant bunny and saltwater fish. Her special interests are in avian medicine, veterinary dermatology and dentistry. Reach her at drsonnya@gmail.com.
