Caring for an outdoor cat requires some special considerations to keep them healthy, safe and happy. Here are some tips on how to properly care for a cat that goes outside.
Provide Adequate Shelter and Bedding
Outdoor cats need a dry, insulated place to sleep and get out of the elements.
- Build or buy an outdoor cat house, lined with straw or blankets for warmth and comfort. Place it in a protected area of your yard.
- You can also provide sheltered areas under porches, sheds, or decks. Ensure the area is protected from wind, rain, and snow.
- Check the cat’s bedding daily and replace any wet or soiled bedding to keep them clean and dry.
- In winter, use an electric heated pad or microwavable heat packs to provide cozy warmth.
Ensure Access to Food and Clean Water
Outdoor cats burn more calories to stay warm, so they need constant access to food and fresh water.
- Feed them high-quality cat food formulated for outdoor cats. Feed at least 2-3 times per day.
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times in tip-proof bowls. Change it 2-3 times per day.
- Place food and water bowls in a protected area, like under an overhang. This keeps them clean and free of debris.
- Consider getting a microchip-controlled cat feeder to restrict food access to your cat only. This prevents other animals from eating their food.
Sanitation and Grooming
Outdoor cats need occasional washing and grooming to stay clean and healthy.
- Brush or comb their coat 2-3 times a week to remove dirt, loose fur, and prevent mats.
- Trim overgrown claws every 2-3 weeks.
- Give occasional baths as needed with gentle cat shampoo. Dry thoroughly.
- Check for fleas/ticks and treat if necessary. Apply monthly topical flea/tick prevention.
- Clean litter boxes daily. Use an enzymatic cleaner weekly to remove odors.
- Clean food and water bowls regularly with hot soapy water.
Provide Enrichment and Entertainment
Outdoor cats need mental stimulation and opportunities to exercise their natural instincts.
- Provide toys like balls, catnip mice, and interactive feeders or puzzles. Rotate toys to prevent boredom.
- Install a cat tree, scratching post, or climbing platforms for exercise.
- Plant cat-safe plants like catnip or cat grass for them to munch.
- Consider building an outdoor catio or cat fence so they can enjoy the outdoors safely.
- Play with your cat daily with interactive toys like feather wands and laser pointers.
Vaccinations and Identification
It’s critical that outdoor cats receive proper preventative care.
- Make sure your cat is up to date on core vaccinations, especially rabies and feline leukemia.
- Have your vet implant a microchip for permanent identification if your cat is lost.
- Put a safety collar on your cat with your current contact info. Update as needed. Consider a GPS cat collar.
- Have your cat spayed/neutered to prevent roaming, fighting, and diseases.
- Schedule annual vet exams to check their overall health. Request FIV/FeLV testing if concerned.
Safety and Protection
Letting your cat outdoors poses some risks that need to be managed.
- Accompany young or new outdoor cats until they learn the territory. Supervise outdoor time.
- Restrict outdoor access at night when risks are higher. Bring them in overnight.
- Provide escape routes like cat doors and provide high perches for surveillance.
- Deter other animals with ultrasonic devices or scat mats around your property.
- Check your yard for poisonous plants and chemicals. Remove or avoid using.
- Keep cats indoors for 2-3 weeks after moving to a new home so they acclimate.
Monitor Their Health and Behavior
Observe your outdoor cat closely every day for any problems.
- Note changes in eating, drinking, litter box use, or energy level, which could indicate illness.
- Check their coat condition. Patchy fur or excessive grooming may indicate parasites or skin conditions.
- Watch out for limping, which could signal an injury. Check for signs of abscesses from cat fights.
- If your cat stops using the litter box, take them to the vet to check for underlying medical issues.
- Aggression, restlessness, or sudden timidness are signs something may be causing them stress or fear.
Transitioning an Indoor Cat Outdoors
If you want to start letting an indoor cat explore outside, do it gradually.
- Get them microchipped first in case they escape. Consider a GPS collar.
- Start by taking them outside on a harness and leash, supervising closely.
- Next, let them start spending time in a catio or enclosed outdoor pen.
- After that, allow supervised solo time in your secure yard for short periods.
- Increase outdoor time gradually over several weeks. Don’t rush the process.
- Make sure to bring them in before dark. Feed them indoors at first before transitioning.
- If they seem fearful, go back a step and build up more slowly. Some cats adapt better than others.
- Provide ample enrichment indoors too so outside time is not overstimulating.
When to Reconsider Letting a Cat Outside
Certain situations mean keeping your cat indoors is safest.
- If you live near busy roads, it’s best to make them indoor only. Road accidents are very high risk.
- In large city environments, dangers like cars, people, and diseases make outside time ill-advised. Stick to indoor play.
- If your yard is not fully fenced or has poisonous plants, letting them out is risky. Opt for walks on a leash instead.
- Outdoor access is not recommended for declawed cats, elderly cats, or cats with medical issues.
- Kittens under one year old should be kept indoors where they are safer. They can start going out after maturity.
- If your cat stops using the litter box, becomes ill, or seems stressed outdoors, it’s time to revert back to indoor only.
Conclusion
Caring for an outdoor cat entails providing for all their physical and mental needs while also ensuring adequate protection. With proper preparation and vigilance, your feline companion can enjoy the best of both indoor and outdoor worlds safely and happily! Be sure to partner closely with your veterinarian to maintain their health. With some thoughtful management, your cat can thrive as both an indoor and outdoor pet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Outdoor Cats
How often should outdoor cats eat?
Outdoor cats should eat at least 2-3 times per day since they burn more calories being active outside. Feed them high-calorie food formulated for outdoor cats.
What vaccines do outdoor cats need?
Outdoor cats need rabies, feline leukemia, FIV, and distemper vaccines. Annual vet exams are recommended to check for illnesses like heartworms.
Should I get pet insurance for an outdoor cat?
Yes, pet insurance is highly recommended for outdoor cats, who are at greater risk of injury or illness. Accidents and vet bills add up fast.
Is it OK to let cats outside at night?
No, cats should be brought indoors at night when risks like cars, predators, fights with other cats, and theft are highest. Outdoor cats need supervision.
How can I help my indoor cat adjust to going outside?
Start by leash training them, then move to a catio or enclosure. Slowly increase unsupervised outdoor time in a secure yard over several weeks. Bring them in before dark.
What should I do if my outdoor cat goes missing?
Check for them in nearby shelters ASAP. Post signs and notify neighbors. Call microchip registry if they have one. Don’t give up – some missing cats turn up months later!