As most of my readers know, I am an avid spokesperson for animal welfare and humane treatment.
To this end, I tirelessly promote and campaign for the concept of keeping one's pet cats exclusively indoors for their own safety. An indoor cat can live up to 3 or 4 times as long as one who is allowed to go outdoors. How much do you love your kitty? Would you like the companionship of your furry friend for up to 15 years, or only for 4 to 6?
Cats allowed outside can suffer any number of unkind fates, ranging from infections stemming from wounds received in fights, being hit by cars, disease, and yes, predation from larger animals including dogs and birds of prey.
Not only is the cat at risk; so is the local wildlife. Outdoor cats can be responsible for the decimation on native species such as birds, lizards and mice. While no one has any particular love for mice, especially when they get into our homes, they nonetheless have their place in the ecosystem.
Today, I came across a video by the National Geographic Society which underscores both points with graphic clarity. It is an important educational movie, and I warn you, parts of it are quite disturbing. However, I urge you to watch it to the end, and share it around. Allow time: it does run just about an hour, but it contains vitally important information.
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Great post. We never let our cats outside. They are quite content to watch the action from the window sill, or through the sliding door to the patio. :)
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