Do you let your cat go outdoors? If so, you may want to consider grounding your feline buddy. Kitties are actually much better off staying inside! In this article, a local Ellicott City, MD vet lists some great reasons to keep your kitty in.

Safety

First and foremost, cats are much safer staying indoors. As soon as Fluffy sets her tiny paws outside, she is exposed to some very serious risks! Cars, toxins, parasites, and predators are just a few of the things that endanger kitties outside.

Reduce The Odds Of Fluffy Getting Lost

This may be stating the obvious, but if you keep your feline pal in, the chances of her getting lost, injured, or stolen will really plummet. (Note: we still recommend microchipping your cat, even if you plan to keep her in. Better safe than sorry!)

Less Shedding

Did you know that cats who are allowed to go outside may shed less than indoor cats? Outdoor kitties are exposed to seasonal weather changes that trigger shedding, while indoor cats enjoy relatively stable temperatures. If you keep your kitty inside, you may not have to deal with as much pet fur getting stuck to everything.

Protect Local Wildlife

Fluffy may look innocent, but in truth, she’s actually a tiny, adorable serial killer. Cats kill billions of small animals each year! Keeping your tiny little huntress inside will help protect fragile wildlife populations. (Bonus: you’ll also be spared your feline friend’s ‘gifts.’)

Eliminate Pawprint Art

Cats enjoy all sorts of fun outdoor activities, like chasing butterflies, rolling around in the grass, and ignoring you when you call them. They also love leaving pawprints on our cars. Keeping Fluffy inside will curb her habit of creating kitty graffiti.

Purrs

Although your adventurous pet may cry at the door for you to let her out right meow, Fluffy may eventually become quite comfortable staying indoors. After all, your furry little friend won’t have to deal with weather extremes, and will be able to spend her time napping, eating, and chasing catnip mice. Even former strays can come to enjoy the indoor life in time, and will sometimes lose all desire to go out.

Do you have any questions about your cat’s health or care? Please feel free to contact us, your Ellicott City, MD vet clinic, anytime. We’re dedicated to offering great veterinary care.