Guest guest Posted November 12, 2003 Report Share Posted November 12, 2003 I understand all the benefits for keeping cats indoors, especially at night, but I can't quite agree that doing so all the time is the right way to go. I welcome other's opinions, but from my AR perspective, cats, like all animals, should have the right to freely choose how they like to spend their time. I have two cats, one of which is essentially in-door all the time because he simply doesn't like or is afraid to go out (I don't know about his life prior to his adoption from the SF SPCA, but it's his choice to not go out). He has thus become overweight (around 25 lbs) and is on a low-cal diet. My other cat, on the other hand, is quite active, with a healthy weight, and loves to play outside. Again, perhaps he grew up knowing the outdoors before I adopted him. I think just like humans we should take the necessary precautions, such as getting periodic vaccinations, so our risk in playing outdoors is minimized. It's just as true that while there's no such thing as a " healthy tan " , it would be ridiculous to keep oneself indoors all the time just because of the fear for such a risk. I'm an avid backpacker and I'd find it cruel to be forcing my animal companions to have to sit next to a window and stare out of it all day, instead of sitting on the grass or exploring the bushes, even if they often come home dirty. Most cats are domesticated, but I don't think that means they would be happy being " captive " all the time. I'd rather they take some risks and knowing that they have led a meaningful life. Erhhung Kelle K [kkacmarcik] Wednesday, November 12, 2003 11:06 AM erhhung; ' ' Re: [sFBAVEG] Advice needed for racoon in my house Kasie's reply was right on in terms of keeping cats indoors! All major humane organizations in the US recommend keeping cats indoors. But I also had to write in response to the rabies reference. The entire US averages one to two cases of human rabies per year. Raccoons are the most common carrier in No. Cal but the risk to you is still very, very low. Your cats on the other hand, be sure they are vaccinated for rabies and keep them indoors at all times. They are just as likely to get into some brawl outside with who knows what other animals or vehicles. Car beats cat every time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.