Keeping cats outside - safety and well-being in the open air

Out in the great outdoors - for many cats, there is nothing better than the freedom to put their own four paws into the adventure of nature. But while our purring friends are out exploring, we cat owners start to worry. How do we ensure that our furry adventurers stay safe and healthy while they are out exploring their surroundings? A question as old as cat ownership itself, but don't worry - there's a solution to every problem.

Take safety measures

Let's start with the be-all and end-all: safety. There are dangers lurking outside, such as cars, other animals and even poisonous plants. But there's no need to panic, with the right precautions you can give your little one carefree outings:

• Explore the area: Before you let your cat outside, familiarise yourself with the environment. Identify potential dangers and think about how you can minimise them.
• Vaccinated and chipped: Make sure your cat is vaccinated against the most important diseases and has a microchip. If it gets lost, the chip will make it easier to find it again.
• Safety harness: A safety harness can be helpful for the first few outings. This way you can explore the new territory together with your cat and always have them safely by your side.

And remember to always keep a watchful eye, but also have a little faith in your adventurous cat.

Offering refuge and protection

Speaking of the outdoors, there's one thing we mustn't forget - a cosy shelter is a must. Any cat that likes to spend time outdoors should have a safe place to retreat to in bad weather or when needed:

• A cosy cat house: There are many variants of weatherproof cat houses. It is important that it is insulated and equipped with soft blankets so that your cat is warm and cosy.
• Elevated resting places: Cats love to look at the world from above. Make sure that there are safe, elevated places in your garden from which your cat can keep an eye on its kingdom.

This not only ensures the well-being of your furry friend, but also gives them a feeling of safety and security.

Keeping an eye on health

If you play outside, you will sometimes come into contact with dirt - or other, less friendly things. Here are a few tips to keep your cat healthy:

• Regular parasite control: Fleas, ticks and worms love to hide in your explorer's fluffy fur. Make sure they are wormed regularly and use anti-tick and anti-flea products.
• Daily health checks: A quick check can work wonders. Look out for scratches, bites or abnormalities in your cat's behaviour.
• Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet is the be-all and end-all for a strong immune system. Make sure your cat gets all the important nutrients.

And don't forget: If you are unsure, don't hesitate to consult a vet. Prevention is better than cure!

A word at the end

Keeping cats outside requires a good deal of planning, care and sometimes a pinch of creativity. But all the effort is worth it when you see how happy and content your cat is with its outdoor life. There are few things more satisfying than looking into bright, grateful feline eyes as they march back into the house after a long day of adventure. So, let's work together to ensure that our outdoor cats can enjoy their freedom - safe, healthy and happy.

Don't forget, keeping cats outside is a responsibility we should carry with love and care. With the right measures, it's child's play to give your furry friends a fulfilling life in the fresh air.

And as the saying goes? A happy cat makes a happy home. So, let's set off on an adventure!

FAQs

Can you only keep a cat outside?

Adult, healthy cats certainly enjoy the luxury of outdoor access, but keeping them exclusively outside, especially in bad weather, would be neither species-appropriate nor advisable. It is important that cats have the opportunity to seek shelter from the elements, especially in extremely cold or hot weather conditions.

When is it too cold outside for cats?

Temperatures below freezing pose a real threat to cats that are not used to the cold. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks. Indoor cats that are used to a warm home can suffer serious dangers in temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius, even if they are only outside for a short time.

What does an outdoor cat need?

Outdoor cats that spend a lot of time outdoors absolutely need a safe and warm shelter. This shelter is particularly important in the cold season to provide them with a place to retreat to. If they do not have access to the house, an insulated and weatherproof shelter is essential.

At what temperatures can cats stay outside?

Cats are naturally quite resistant to the cold, thanks to their fur coat and the special texture of their paws. Some breeds can even withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. The connective and fatty tissue in their paws offers them natural protection from the cold, wet and snow. Nevertheless, a watchful eye should always be kept on the cat's well-being to ensure that it does not become too cold.