Your answer is:

Birds of prey
Disease
Worms
Injuries
Dogs
Automobiles
Very tall hiding places

What are… “Things that could happen to a cat when he’s left outside?”
That’s correct!  All of these things are dangers for cats left outside unattended.  Cats roaming free can also cause people to have accidents.  It’s all-in-all an unsafe habit to begin – letting your cat outside. 

However, there are safe ways to expose your cat to the outdoors.  Cats can be trained to walk on a leash and harness.  OK, maybe not as reliably as dogs, but that just makes them easier to “walk.” Cats are typically happy to pounce around in the grass chasing twigs or simply bask in the sun.  So you may find it only necessary to walk your cat to the front porch and just sit there with him, holding on to a long light line attached to a harness.  What an enjoyable way for both of you to enjoy the nice weather. 

Do make sure your cat is used to sporting a leash and a harness inside before attempting it outside, though.  If he’s going to be frightened of the equipment, you are best off discovering that inside rather than outside.  Give him time to get used to the idea before trying it outdoors.  And make sure he gets play time and/or treats from you outside as well.  That way he knows who to run to if he gets worried.  Teach your cat to enjoy the outdoors with you rather than running from you. 

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the senior behavior/training specialist at the Richmond SPCA. Call the Behavior Helpline at (804) 643-SPCA for help with crate training and other pet behavior topics.

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