Why is it better for cats to live indoors?
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Although some people choose to let their felines live freely, there are several reasons why having them inside is better
One of the most common questions of people who adopt a cat is whether they should live indoors or if they should have the freedom to leave and enter the house. Although cats have traditionally been allowed to walk free, ideally they should stay indoors all the time, as recommended by veterinarians. Almost everyone has been approached by a cat at the window looking for food, but few decide to adopt it, because it is easier to give them food from time to time without the responsibility of taking care of a pet all the time.
Leer en español: ¿Por qué es mejor que los gatos vivan dentro de casa?
If you finally decide to adopt a small cat, then try to keep it inside. These are some reasons why you should stay indoors according to the Peta Latino site:
Life expectancy
A domestic cat, totally indoor, with the corresponding care and a good diet can live up to 15 years on average, says the newspaper La Vanguardia. For example, the record is set at 26 and 27-year-old cats. When a cat lives outdoors, life expectancy is drastically reduced, since they live between 2 and 5 years on average, as they usually deal with outdoor dangers. By living at home you have better control over its health, deworming, cleanliness, food and above all safety. A feline that lives inside the house will avoid many diseases and will have a better monitoring of your veterinarian.
Outdoor Dangers
Cats' nature leads them to look for the outside, since they are used to traveling great distances and to live all kinds of risks. Among these fights with other animals, such as dogs, in addition to other cats. The latter represent a great risk because they can transmit diseases, among the most dangerous is the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus or FIV, which, like HIV in humans, has no cure.
You can also read: 7 benefits of sterilizing your pet
As if that were not enough, they also expose themselves to being run over or stolen, either because someone adopts it or because someone wants to sell it. City environments are more risky for felines, because animal density grows and, being territorial, the possibilities of fights increase. There are also many cases of animal poisoning, which in some places is already a crime because it is a form of animal abuse. Pest control or anti-rabies services are also enemies of outdoor cats. Although some people find it cruel not to let them out on the streets, the reality is that it is the best way to protect them.
Caring for the cat indoors
Having the cat inside requires some extra care:
Feeding: Felines that do not go out exercise less, so the owner must have control of their diet to prevent weight gain. The food brand Royal Canin stands out, because poor diet brings other problems such as diabetes. There is food for all types of cats, considering their age, breed, activity level, allergies, etc. In addition to food, you should try to play with them to motivate them to exercise.
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Sterilization: Operating the cat will eliminate their anxiety of wanting to leave, as well as other health benefits that will make it less likely to have urinary tract diseases. The problem of sterilized cats is that some tend to increase the amount of food they eat, so we must take a lot of care of their food, affirms the portal Bio Chile.
Dangers of the interior: Inside there are also dangers. Cats are curious by nature, so you have to check everything that can hurt them or intoxicate them, so you can put them in a place where they can not have access. If your cat is bored, it is best to look for toys or activities that keep him entertained, as well as protect your furniture and objects.
LatinAmerican Post | Luis Hernandez Liborio
Translated from "¿Por qué es mejor que los gatos vivan dentro de casa?
