Is a cat happier outdoors than indoors?

We all think that cats are happier if they have access to the outdoors. Is it true ? There is no exact answer to this question. An indoor cat can be unhappy if it lives in too small a space. For its part, an outdoor cat faces many dangers. Does the feline need to have access to the outside to be happy? Can an indoor cat be fulfilled? Today we will answer these questions.

What is the life expectancy of a cat?

Before tackling the big question of the well-being of cats, we will look at their life expectancy. A cat lives on average between 12 to 14 years. Know that if you take care of your companion, and more particularly of his health and his diet, he can live more than 15 years! Cats live longer than cats, on average 15 years compared to 13 years. Sterilized animals also have a longer life expectancy.

Purebred cats live shorter than crossbred cats. However, some breeds show excellent longevity. Among them are:

• the Manx,
• the Siamese,
• the Savannah,
• the oriental,
• Russian Blue,
• Bombay,
• the Sphynx,
• Persian,
• the Balinese,
• the Ragdoll,
• the burmese,
• Burmese,
• the Chartreux.

You should know that indoor cats live longer than those who have free access to the outside. They live an average of 11 years. Life expectancy can be reduced depending on where you live.

The causes of death in cats are very varied. Cats that die before their 5th^th birthday are most often victims of trauma and especially accidents on the public highway. Older cats, on the other hand, die of diseases. It could be kidney disease or cancer.

What are the dangers facing outdoor cats?

If outdoor cats have a shorter life expectancy than indoor cats, it is because they face so many dangers. If you have a purebred cat, the risk of theft is high, but it can be reduced if you sterilize the animal. It is then useless for traffic! A cat can also get lost. In this case, the risk is reduced through identification.

Other dangers threaten cats that take advantage of the outdoors. Accidents on the public highway are numerous and claim the lives of many cats each year. If you live in a rural area, your feline may be confused with another animal during the hunting season. He can also be attacked by another animal and even bitten by a snake! Bees are also very dangerous for cats, especially if they sting them in the wrong place. A cat can also be inadvertently locked up or even ingest poison.

A cat that has access to the outside can be in contact with its congeners and contract diseases. such as leucosis, coryza or even typhus. Know that if your cat is vaccinated, he fears nothing. Your feline can also be injured during a fight with another cat or with a dog.

As you will have understood, a cat that has access to the outside must face many dangers that can cost it its life. But can an indoor cat be happy?

Our advice for a happy indoor cat

There are many received ideas about cats. We believe, for example, that felines are happier if they have access to the outdoors. However, a cat simply needs to feel at home. You need to make sure he has everything he needs in your home.

Here is what you should plan for your companion.

• Your cat should enjoy a minimum of space. If your home is too small, he may not feel comfortable there. Remember that a cat is a territorial animal. He needs his space for his basic needs like sleeping and feeding, but also to play and even hunt. Make sure that your animal has a space dedicated to rest, kibble available and water.
• Your cat must have an accessible, suitable and perfectly maintained litter box. Be careful, the litter should not be near the bowls. If your cat smells it, he won’t use it and will do his business everywhere in your home.
• Your cat should have several scratching posts in your home and toys.

Some cat breeds are particularly suited to apartment living. They love comfort and tranquility. Among these breeds are:

• the Persian,
• the British Shorthair,
• the Munchkin,
• the Sphynx,
• Russian Blue,
• the Sacred of Burma,
• the Ragdoll,
• Chartreux,
• the Maine Coon.

How to stimulate an indoor cat?

Food, a source of stimulation

Indoor cats need stimulation to thrive. This stimulation can be done in different ways. Especially with food. Of course, you have to give your pet quality food. But you can offer various food sources such as kibble, mash and even homemade food. To stimulate him, you can offer him a kibble dispenser toy. In addition to being fun, it keeps your cat busy while you’re away.

The game for physical and mental stimulation

Playing with your cat is essential to ensure its well-being. This advice is especially valid for indoor cats. Play helps cats stay active and avoid overweight. The cat is able to play alone or with you. There are a multitude of toys such as the ball, small stuffed animals, fishing rods, feathers… So that he can move every day, make sure he has the possibility to do so. Its environment must be in 3 dimensions thanks to one or more cat trees, shelves and observation points in height. One of them may be at window level! Also remember to set up hiding places!

You will have understood that a cat can be happy inside and outside. Whatever you choose for your pet, you must ensure its well-being. If your cat has everything it needs, it will thrive. Finally, know that indoor cats are closer to their masters.