Why Go Outside With Your Cat

Spring is here, and summer is just around the corner. The leaves are budding on the trees. The birds are singing. Warm breezes are in the air. It is the perfect time to be enjoying the outdoors with your cat.

I agree that indoor cats live longer lives, however, I also know that it is possible to safely, periodically, enjoy the outdoors with your cat. Doing so also provides health advantages to your kitty. Going outside safely can be good for your cat’s mental health, and reduce its risk of obesity. They are also allowed to express their natural behaviors and enjoy the outdoors.

I personally know from experience that I enjoy the outdoors more with Kali-Ma, and I am more motivated to outside with her. I walk longer, and we meet many people along the way that stop and talk to us just because they see a cat on a leash or in a stroller. I have made friends because of it. It’s healthy for her and me. 

Before You Take Your Cat Outside

Before you take your cat outside you have to be safe. In fact, I believe, even if you have an indoor cat you should be using a year-round flea, heart-worm preventative. Fleas live year round and can come in with you on your pants, your groceries, your guests, other animals, etc.

I purchase my preventative from my veterinarian. This protects my cat from fleas and heart-worms. If you choose not to do this then at the very least purchase a flea only preventative as the one I have shown below. You can click on the link here, or get one at a pet store. Please do not take your cat outside unprotected!! 

I also recommend that you have a microchip in your cat. Every pet should have a microchip. I have discussed this in detail in my previous article: Teach Your Cat How To Walk On A Leash

Enjoying The Outdoors With Your Cat

There are several ways in which you go about enjoying the outdoors with your cat. Kali-Ma and I have a routine that works for us. This may not be for everyone, but we enjoy it! 🙂 

I begin by walking with Kali-Ma in her stroller down by the creek we live near. There is a beautiful path that we have come to know together. She sits in her stroller and I walk her until we get to the garden portion of the path.  

When we get to the garden I take her out and let her walk around on her leash. (If you would like more information on how to teach your cat to walk on a leash please refer to this article: Teach Your Cat To Walk On A Leash. She explores and walks about. People come by and talk to us. We always have a wonderful time. 

Her stroller has always been a key tool for me. It allows her a place to sit, rest, or nap when I walk. It also has a screen that protects her from insects. I can leave the screen open or closed. She LOVES her stroller. I pull it out and she JUMPS in ready to go! I purchased it over three years ago and it is still in excellent condition after much use. 

There are also other ways a cat can be outside safely. People have told me about pet “outdoor enclosures”. I have not personally tried these, but they seem very viable as long as you remain with your cat at all times, and they have excellent reviews.  I live in an apartment, so this is not an option for me, but if I could try it I would!  I have listed the links to some of these enclosures below,  as well as listing them on our shopping page Shop Kali-Ma.

Individual Cat Owner Choice

Each cat owner needs to make their own educated choice as to what will work best for them and their cat. I only know that when Kali-Ma and I come home from a walk she puts all four paws in the air and snores herself into a cat nap. Enjoying the outdoors with your cat may not be for everyone, but I certainly hope I have presented enough information for you to consider it. 

Until Next Time….Happy Tails To You!