3 Reasons Why Your Cat Should NOT Be Allowed Outside

In some areas of the world, pet cats are allowed and even encouraged to go outside.  I know, your cat may want and like to be outside but it is not worth the risk!  Here are the main reasons why cats don't belong outside.  

Cat Fights & Illnesses

There are lots of stray cats around, even if you don't see them.  If your animal obsessed like me, you will be feeding the strays (I feel so bad for them!).  Your cat will almost certainly fight with these cats and there is a high chance of your cat getting hurt.  Whether it is an injured eye or an infected scratch, it's not worth the risk.  

Another risk for your cat is illnesses and diseases.  This could come from something as small as a tick to rodents and other ill cats.  A high risk for your cat are diseases that come from rats and mice.  Your cat will most likely hunt, kill and eat rodents.  The problem is that these rodents have plenty of terrible illnesses that can spread to your kitty.  

Human Dangers

Whether by accident or on purpose, humans cause lots of problems for outdoor cats.  A huge number of cats are killed by cars every year (in Scotland you don't even need to tell the owner if you hit their cat, so horrible!).  This isn't just on busy roads, even if you live in the country your cat is still in danger.  If there is one reason that you shouldn't let your cat outside it's because of the danger that cars cause.  

There are other man-made dangers such as your cat getting poisoned.  Things like anti-freeze, rat poison and types of paint can be deadly for cats.  If your cat does get poisoned while outside, you may not have time to help OR you won't be able to find the cat.  

Predators

Another huge problem for outdoor cats is their predators.  Wildlife like foxes and badgers (here in Scotland) kill many cats every year.  Unfortunately, people often feed these predators close to pet homes (even if unintentionally) which causes major danger to cats.  Also, if you live close to other houses who have dogs then this is also risky.  I personally witnessed a cat being attacked by a dog after the cat jumped into the dog's garden.  Long story short, both the cat AND dog were put to sleep.  Clearly, this was a terrible situation that I never want anyone else (or any pets) to go through.  Don't risk it.  You never know how a dog will react.  

*Disclaimer*  

I am not any type of animal expert but instead only an animal lover who wants to share her tips.  Please consult relevant animal specialists and do not only take my advice.

 The Rider's Pets