Dogs need to be walked every day for exercise and enrichment. But what about cats—do they need outdoor access to be happy and healthy? Although free-roaming outdoors is dangerous for cats, there can be benefits to safely monitored outdoor time. While some cats love nothing more than sleeping in the sun, other kitties are excited to explore. Here, a veterinarian weighs the need for cats’ enrichment against the risks of spending time outside.

Letting them explore

When Jennifer Cassidy goes near her patio door, her cat, Sesame, kicks up the charm, rubbing against her legs. The message: “It’s time to go outside!” However, “cats do not have a biological requirement for outdoor access,” says Jo Myers, D.V.M., a practitioner with online pet health platform Vetster.

They do, though, need to be able to express themselves through natural cat behaviors such as playing, climbing, exploring, and scratching. “If those needs are met indoors, many cats live very content, healthy lives without roaming outside,” Myers says. “It depends on the individual cat, the home, and how well that cat’s needs are being met.”

Some cats may want to stroll around the yard, which can provide valuable enrichment. Other cats might become overwhelmed by the new environment and prefer the predictability of being inside 24/7. “Unlike a tuxedo cat, feline welfare is rarely black and white,” Myers says. Each cat is different—follow your cat’s lead to see whether they enjoy supervised outdoor time or prefer to rule indoors.

Safe supervision

Myers notes that cats should always be supervised when outdoors. Options like catios, screened porches, pet strollers, and window boxes provide both enrichment and safe outdoor monitoring.

“Roaming free outdoors carries real risks for cats, including trauma, disease exposure, toxins, parasites, and predation,” Myers says. “That’s why I agree with the many veterinarians who encourage either indoor living or controlled outdoor access.” Pet cats allowed to be free outdoors also kill hundreds of millions of birds in the U.S. each year, which can have a devastating ecological impact.

For Sesame’s outdoor time, Cassidy uses a cat harness and a leash. “We stay in the yard,” Cassidy says. “I walk with her as she explores. She stalks—but doesn’t catch—bugs, birds, and squirrels. We’ve been doing it since Sesame was a kitten, and it’s a great way for her to get fresh air and stimulation.”

Ultimately, you want to make the best decision for your cat, whether that means letting them venture outside or keeping them intentionally indoors. “When an owner makes informed decisions that fit their cat and their circumstances, that is when we see the best welfare outcomes,” Myers says.

You Might Also Like