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> Please Keep Your Cats Inside!, danger to outdoor cats
Ken Albin
post Mar 18 2008, 07:00 PM
Post #1





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 504
Joined: 30-April 05
From: St. Augustine, Florida
Member No.: 854



This may be somewhat graphic and I apologize for that, but I feel that I need to share this with those who have cats outside.

I teach high school Anatomy. Most of my students plan on pursuing a medical career. Part of our curriculum involves an extensive dissection of cats that have been euthanized at various shelters. These cats would wind up in landfills otherwise so at least they are providing a learning platform for future doctors and vets. I would imagine that many of these cats were rounded up from neighborhoods by animal control when people complained. These appear to be your typical cats who people feed outdoors.

This term we found that two of the cats had been shot. One had a pellet lodged in his hind leg. Another cat had a .22 bullet in her back. Both wounds had healed over, though there were signs of systemic infection. That was probably the reason why they were euthanized instead of being treated and then adopted.

If you have outdoor cats please consider bringing them in. There are a lot of cruel people in this world who do not hesitate to inflict pain upon any animal who comes into their yard. I have heard the argument that cats belong outdoors and are only happy there. I can only tell you that we have 9 indoor cats who are extremely happy. Most of ours are semi-feral and were trapped before being domesticated. Yes, it did take a lot of effort, scratches, and time for us to tame several of these guys but I am convinced that with patience and effort almost any cat can be acclimated to a happy life indoors.
Many people simply do not want to put forth the effort to do this. Even our Freddie, who to this day goes wild when we take him for a vet visit, is very happy inside. He sleeps next to me most nights and plays with the others. He will always be very shy and you have to pet him when he allows it but he has acclimated very well to home life.

My intention in writing this post is not to cause any dissention or hard feelings. Based upon what I have seen I know the hardships that cats can experience when they interact with some people outdoors. One of our cats, Daddy Cat, had a .22 bullet removed from his side by our vet when we took him to be initially checked out. Please consider taking the time to work with outdoor cats and bringing them inside. They will live happier and much safer lives.


--------------------

Daddy Cat left this world at the age of 17. His tribute page is at Daddy Cat's Tribute Page
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LoveThem
post Mar 18 2008, 07:22 PM
Post #2





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 2,171
Joined: 2-November 07
Member No.: 3,876



I wonder if you have any suggestions about my new adoptee, Lucky. He is supposed to be about 2 years old...was an abandoned cat and I am beginning to believe he lived outside for a while.

He tries to dash for our backdoor to go outside. I am training him not to go there with a water squirt bottle but I have read in cat magazines that if a cat has been outdoors it is hard to train them to stay indoors.

My original 3 furbabies I had from birth and they were never allowed outside and did not want to go out.

I don't know how long Lucky lived outdoors but it is his learning years and I'm not sure I will be able to break him from running to the door or being there when we come in from the outside. I understand some people had adopted him and then moved and left him and a neighbor took him to the SPCA after she discovered him alone. He is microchipped and he has run past me 2x (which is 2x too many). Once he is outside, he just looks around and doesn't run away so I get him pretty quickly. But there are stray cats around and I'm afraid one day if he goes out and sees one and starts chasing it to who knows where....we could lose him. We don't want to lock him in a room everytime we go outside to get the mail or something like that but he is not afraid of anything and will run if he sees the bottle but I can walk by the service area (which cannot be shut off) later and see him standing right at the door..only no one is coming in.

It's like a big adventure to him..he must have learned no fear when he was outside, who knows for how long.

If you think of anything..let me know.
Thanks.

P.S. I wrote cause of your topic t*itle. I didn't read what you wrote as graphic bothers me too much but I do agree with your topic.


--------------------
LITTLE GUY - May 28, 1991 - Sept 10, 2007 - Always in my Heart.
His story: Section D&D: How do I stop crying? and also... My Boy is Gone Forever.

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Ken Albin
post Mar 18 2008, 09:54 PM
Post #3





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 504
Joined: 30-April 05
From: St. Augustine, Florida
Member No.: 854



Our little girl kittens would make a dash for the door every time we opened it. Day after day of putting our foot in the door to block them, along with a stern "NO NO NO!!" and carrying them away from the door/depositing them on the chair, has done the trick. After a couple of months of daily training they both wait for us away from the door. It just takes a lot of repet*ition and patience. I use the same type of consistent approach I do with my students. Cats are intelligent and learn the ground rules of the house quickly. It takes a little longer to conquer their stubborn streaks and bullheadedness. It's a lot like horse training. tongue.gif


--------------------

Daddy Cat left this world at the age of 17. His tribute page is at Daddy Cat's Tribute Page
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gillian
post Mar 19 2008, 10:44 AM
Post #4





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



My cat Sasha is almost 6, and Darcey is 1. They are outdoor kitties and very happy. They couldn't bear to be locked indoors. In the freedom of the outdoors, they climb trees, and hunt, and interact with other kitties. They lie in the sun, defend their territory, and have fun trying to catch flies etc.

They get indoors in the evenings for a cuddle, and then are allowed out at night again till the following evening. But I couldn't bear to lock them in permanently. In the evening, even after only being in for an hour, Darcey goes to the back door and miaws till she gets out.

In my opinion, I think cats are in a sense wild and should be allowed to express their wild instincts. We complain that chickens should be 'free range' and yet lock our cats in. That makes little sense to me. Not once have my cats got in any trouble. No I'm sorry. My cats are outdoor kitties. If I tried to lock them in, they'd cry at the back door till I let them out.

I can see reason for some people doing it. Worried about them being run over, getting into a fight, people hurting them etc. But there are always dangers. For us too. When we go outdoors we know there are dangers, but that doesn't mean we don't do it. We like to go outdoors, regardless of the dangers involved. I don't think wrapping them in cotton wool is the answer. Do we lock our children in permanently because of the dangers of being outdoors? No. We let them out to play, and to go to school, even though they are innocent and to lose a child would be far far worse than to lose a cat. Not to mention the fact that Social Services would not allow us to lock our children indoors knowing it to be cruel. So why is it not cruel to do it to a cat?

Cats thrive in the outdoors. They are happier outdoors. Anyone would be. The way I see it, would you like to be locked in your house for the rest of your life?

The reason all your cats dash for the outdoors is because they crave the freedom, the fresh air, the ability to hunt and climb, they crave it. They want it. If it were me, I'd let them out. What about fresh clean air? They don't get to breathe anything other than stale indoor air. If your cats eventually stop dashing for the outdoors, you have merely trained them that outdoors is forbidden, just as you train a dog to sit on command. It doesn't mean they want to go out any less.

I never worry about my cats, they stay around the house, never go far ... they know never to go near a main road, and don't allow strangers to touch them. They are intelligent and streetwise. I have them annually vaccinated, wormed every 3 months, spayed and microchipped just in case.

However, if you buy a kitten and choose to keep it indoors, it can be happy I'm sure because its never experienced freedom. But if you have an outdoor kitty, I think it would be unfair to just bring it in after it being used to being outdoors. They want to be outside; right now I'm looking at Darcey climbing a tree, and Sasha is sitting on my garden shed hunting flies. (she never catches them! smile.gif ) I could call them in now, but they wouldn't come in. Besides, my aunt has an 18 year old male whose been an outdoor kitty all his life, and has never had a brush with danger.

If you think it's best for your kitty to keep it indoors then that's your choice. But in my humble opinion, let them live free like the beautiful wild animals they are. I know there are accidents etc, there are accidents and dangers for every living creature, but noone knows how to look after themselves as well as a cat.

Oh and Ken, just wanted to add this in extra, the cats you were describing sounded like wild cats, rather than owned cats. So surely they were begging for food from one house to the next. And therefore they were very vulnerable. My cats stay close to my house, and don't really go near other peoples' yards, or other people. They know where they are fed. And it's nothing to do with lack of effort that people keep their cats outdoors. It's to do with believing that cats belong in the freedom of the outdoors. I'd keep my cats indoors if I thought it was best for them, but I don't. I believe it's best for them to decide, and they have decided to live outdoors. I don't kick them out of the house. They have catflaps and they come and go as they please, and it's ironic because they rarely come indoors apart from the evening, preferring to be outdoors. It's their decision. Such is the nature of a cat to decide for herself what she would like to do. smile.gif I love their independance. At any rate, it's very rare for cats to be run over where I come from, and I used to work in an emergency veterinary clinic! And my cats are never in fights or wounded. They've always been fine. I know there is risk but that is the case for all of us. I'm still content with my decision.

'People on both sides of the debate need to understand that there is in fact no right or wrong answer regarding keeping a cat inside or not. The decision is influenced by environmental factors. The outside world in parts of America is massively more dangerous to cats than the outside world in Britain and Ireland (where I live). Remember cats that are allowed outside in the UK already have a very healthy life expectancy (up to early twenties!) and this is not likely to be increased by keeping them indoors with no access to the "wild" that they were born to be in.

Not many of the dangers that face outdoor cats in America are faced by those in the UK. The UK for example does not have a coyote population, or any deadly spiders or insects. Dogs are kept away from cats and besides, most cats could give a British dog a run for its money! Dogs in the UK are more domestic pets rather than trained guard or attack dogs and most owners train their dogs to be wary of and sometimes friendly with cats.

Cats can of course get into fights with each other, but most are territorial and stick to their own areas, they then generally learn to get along with each other too. I personally have not heard of many cats who have died as the result of a fight with another cat.

There is of course always a small chance in the UK that a cat may fall victim to mindless thugs who have in the past done terrible things to them However, this is very rare in the UK and one does not hear, thankfully, of many cases.

The main danger to cats in the UK in most peoples opinion is traffic. Most people however, when faced with a cat in the road will thankfully stop or in the worst case scenario, if the cat is hit, will contact a vets, rescue centre or try to locate the owner. The majority of cats are road savvy in the UK.

And with regard to illnesses and diseases, like humans, any cat can get ill regardless of whether a cat is allowed outside or not. Studies have shown that cats living inside a smoking house are more likely to develop respiratory illnesses and significantly more likely to suffer from feline leukemia. This chance is in essence increased if a cat is unable to go outside and benefit from the fresh air.'

BTW I'm not sure if that is Daddy Cat in your display pic, but that is one handsome cat. Lovely colouring, very unusual. Lovely!

My Sasha and Darcey below.
Attached image(s)
Attached Image
 


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
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LoveThem
post Mar 19 2008, 03:17 PM
Post #5





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 2,171
Joined: 2-November 07
Member No.: 3,876



Thanks, Ken. That's about what we are doing but it hasn't been a lot of time. Who knows what Lucky did for 2 years while abandoned? I don't expect him to listen to something new after only a couple of months but he just loves to challenge me..just like a kid.


Gillian: I believe people should do with their animals what they feel comfortable with and are willing to accept any consequences. Outside or inside...that is their choice and I would NEVER tell them not to do it. Just a note because of your reply...you might be interested in knowing when I was very young...I had a cat and we let him be outside. One day he was missing for 3 days. He came home with maggots in his head..apparently from being in a fight. My parents said we had to kill him because the maggots would eat his brain. I was the only one who could touch him and my father made me put him in a barrel that my father had attached a hose to from the car and I heard my cat frantically trying to escape while dying. I swore I would never have a cat outside again. I hate that reminder and I have never spoken of it until now but reading all your words about it is cruel to keep them inside...I decided to tell you my story.
That's why I never judge indoors or outdoors even though I see others have done so before in the forum. I also read where their cats were killed by other animals and again I don't say keep them inside. It is up to the owner. I wouldn't want anyone telling me what is best for my babies. I am comfortable with the choices I have made.


--------------------
LITTLE GUY - May 28, 1991 - Sept 10, 2007 - Always in my Heart.
His story: Section D&D: How do I stop crying? and also... My Boy is Gone Forever.

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gillian
post Mar 19 2008, 03:54 PM
Post #6





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



LoveThem,

I'll just repeat what I said in my post:

"If you think it's best for your kitty to keep it indoors then that's your choice."

I wasn't telling anyone what to do, just giving my own opinion, which regardless of what happened to your cat (and I'm sorry to hear that it did) stands. Such a story will not scare me into locking my cats indoors now or ever. Nothing will. Because I still think it would be most cruel for me to just bring them indoors for the rest of their lives after their having being used to experiencing a life of freedom and independence. They would be so unhappy, especially Darcey as she is practically feral and will only come to myself and my fiancé.

With my animals, I try to imagine what I would like in their situation, and if I would hate to live indoors, so would they. You see what I mean? So I do what I feel is best, just as you do what you feel is best. We don't lock our children up because of dangers, so why our cats? Even some farmers refuse to lock their chickens up (regardless of the threat of foxes and the financial losses that would cause) because they think it is cruel ... and I believe that it is. Which is why I only buy 'free range' eggs!

Everyone I have known in my lifetime who has cats keeps them outdoors (that's about 20-30 cats) and none of them have had so much as a scratch. Any which have passed away did to natural causes.

I'm confident Sasha and Darcey will live long and healthy lives. I would be shocked if anything bad happened to them, but if it did, I wouldn't feel guilty, and my cats would continue to live outdoors. I'm as comfortable with my choice as you are with yours.

But as I said, everyone must do what they think is best for their kitty. I think it's better for them to live outdoors. You obviously don't, so lets agree to disagree. smile.gif


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
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LoveThem
post Mar 19 2008, 04:29 PM
Post #7





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 2,171
Joined: 2-November 07
Member No.: 3,876



I definitely agree with that..agreeing to disagree.

Your friends who have had 20-30 cats that never had a problem..that is a wonderful thing. Of course, I have read some sad stories here about cougars apparently getting cats and other things like one was upset her cat was hit by a car and dumped in a dumpster. Like I said it is always up to the owner because that is the person who has to live with the consequences, if there are any. And, I wish I could perform miracles and guarantee there never would be any for anyone but that's just wishful thinking.

It is unfortunate that no matter what we do..when it is time for these babies to leave us, whether by cancer, kidney disease, we cannot stop that ....and again I admire that your friends' many furbabies ALL passed away of natural causes....It is wonderful they never had to go through the pain of watching a disease attack their babies.

I've just never met people who never had any problems. I guess some do have a charmed life..I just never met them.

By the way, my story was not meant to SCARE YOU...it was very very hard to me to even tell you what to me was a very horrible experience...I was basically telling you why it was important to ME to keep my babies inside. I told you MY REASON FOR DOING SO. It had nothing to do with trying to scare you, which was never my intention because as I said I believe it is up to the owner and I would not tell them to keep them in or put them out..that would be like the "nanny" state our government does so many times telling us what is best for us. I don't believe in doing that at all.
And I definitely agree no one else should either.

I do agree with what you said about you doing what you feel is best and that I do what I feel is best. We all must do what we feel comfortable living with..so there are no regrets and we can sleep better at night knowing we did what we felt was right.


--------------------
LITTLE GUY - May 28, 1991 - Sept 10, 2007 - Always in my Heart.
His story: Section D&D: How do I stop crying? and also... My Boy is Gone Forever.

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gillian
post Mar 19 2008, 04:35 PM
Post #8





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



When I said my friends had 20-30 cats, I'd meant various friends, not just one. And when I said natural causes, I meant dying to either disease or old age or whatever. I meant they didn't die due to being run over, or involved in a fight, and they would have died in the way they died whether they had been outdoor or indoor kitties. Yeah?

Well maybe it's to do with where we are from. I'm Irish! And it's usually only badgers and foxes which we see run over, very rarely a cat. I've seen more dogs run over than cats.

However, I'm glad no hard feelings! And again, I'm sorry about your cat. x


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
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Ken Albin
post Mar 19 2008, 05:09 PM
Post #9





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 504
Joined: 30-April 05
From: St. Augustine, Florida
Member No.: 854



Guys,

I want to thank you for talking about this in a kind, civilized way. When I was thinking about making this post I almost scrapped the idea because so many times posts like this just degrade to the point that people are screaming at each other. I really did feel I needed to get the information out there. I greatly appreciate the differing opinions and I honestly do read and consider them. No one should ever close their minds to the thoughts of others or be afraid to listen and consider other viewpoints. Even when we "agree to disagree" I think it is good that we get exposed to alternative ideas. You all are the best! *hugs*

Ken


--------------------

Daddy Cat left this world at the age of 17. His tribute page is at Daddy Cat's Tribute Page
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libby
post Mar 19 2008, 06:55 PM
Post #10





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 10
Joined: 17-March 08
Member No.: 4,590



I live out in the country but I still worry about my three kitties. In addition to the hazard from cars there is also the hazard of wild animals, some predatory, some prey, who may have various diseases or murderous intentions that can hurt your cat.
My 3 have always roamed free and I sometimes wish I had never gotten them in that habit. It's too late now though, if I tried to keep them in they would claw through the walls to get out!
If I ever get a new kitty, I will keep them as an indoor cat. If I ever get a new dog, I will restrict thier ability to roam as well. Since my Tripper got hit by a car and died, I find myself wishing I had never instilled in him that wander lust.
Pets are animals yes, with instincts just like thier wild counterparts, however, through breeding and domestication they are ill equipped to live in the wild and need to be watched over.
Keep your buddies close!! Not everyone loves animals as we do.
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gillian
post Mar 20 2008, 06:19 AM
Post #11





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



Each to their own. smile.gif

Actually I could probably use you indoor cats peoples' (if I can call you that! smile.gif) advice.

We're moving house. Oh Lord I am not looking forward to that. My pet birds, fish and dogs will be easy, but the cats! God! I have to keep them indoors for 2-3 weeks so they get used to the new environment before allowing them out. They are going to be going insane. I can hear them already, miaw miaw miaw and scratching at the back door at 3 in the morning, and then when I do let them out eventually, they will huff with me for locking them in at all!

I'm going to feel so sorry for them as they are outdoor cats, and I can't give them the run of the house either cause they'd try to eat my birds and fish, and all the midwives and doctors say cats are a danger to babies. (I have a 6-month-old) So they will be confined to the kitchen. Not to mention the fact that they have sharp claws (declawing is illegal in Ireland) and I have leather sofas which I am still paying off! So they will need to stay in the kitchen unless we are supervising them in the living room.

How do you preoccupy your cats locked in a house all the time? I have scratch posts and toys but they lose interest very quickly ... and on top of that Sasha and Darcey don't like each other at all ... I imagine they will fight locked indoors, so I don't know how on Earth I will manage. At the moment, Sasha's territory is the front area of the house, and Darcey's is the back so they manage to avoid each other outdoors, but when I bring them in to feed them and give them a cuddle, it's big arguments; a growl here, a hiss there, and Sasha often bats Darcey too ... But both of them in a kitchen for 3 weeks a lot of the time unsupervised! ... I'm sensing big fights. Thank God I have pet insurance ... sad.gif But that's not good. I don't want a fight, especially as they have full claws. Help Help. I suppose the only answer really is to keep them in seperate rooms, but that'll be awful hassle. Any thoughts?

Thanks


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
Go to the top of the page
 
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gillian
post Mar 20 2008, 11:09 AM
Post #12





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



Hi,

I noticed your 12 step programme ... but I have no intention on ever moving my cats indoors. I believe cats should live outdoors. But as I said, each to their own. I've just got to keep them in temporarily for 2-3 weeks when we move ... That's all. I'd never make it permanent.

Yeah I know when I do let them out, I run the risk of them never coming back. But they are loyal, and I feel they will.

With Sasha, she's only 5, and we've moved home twice already, introduced 3 new dogs, a new cat, birds, fish and a baby into the house, and she's still with us. She chooses to stay with us, even though she is a grumpy moggy. And Darcey adores me ... She'd never leave me. Would you believe she even comes along with me when I walk my dogs; she walks alongside the pram. I used to hate her doing it cause I walk along a main road, but she seems to know to stay by my side, and she never leaves our home area and garden without me smile.gif Crazy kitty. Sometimes I wonder if she loves me so much because she remembers what I did for her. When I first came across Darcey, she was about to be drowned by the farmer who owned her mother as vermin ... I understand this is procedure on a lot of farms. But I stepped in, saved her life; she was 7 weeks old, and she clung to me for weeks afterwards. Poor girl.

Yeah, it'll be a handful, but it's fine. Animals make a house a home.

Sorry you've been though such a rough time losing your Rassy Cat. I lost my dog Bono 17 months ago too, so I understand the numb grief ...

Thanks. x


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
Go to the top of the page
 
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LoveThem
post Mar 20 2008, 11:35 AM
Post #13





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 2,171
Joined: 2-November 07
Member No.: 3,876



Gillian: You might consider locking 1 in the bathroom and if there are more than 1 bathrooms....put another in another one. I found the bathroom would get the least damage. The only thing that happened when I put a puppy in one was my whole roll of toilet paper was all over the floor when I got home from work.biggrin.gif

Also maybe you could rent or buy the kind of cage crate...very large..that sometimes I see in the vet hospital when I am in the waiting room. They have one of these with a cat inside with its foods, blanket, litter, and they usually are sleeping., and a note saying they are available for adoption. Normally I wouldn't suggest this but since you are saying temporary...maybe that's a thought. that would help keep them from fighting and also save your furniture. It probably wouldn't keep them quiet if they are used to meowing to get out but it would protect them from each other and your furniture. Oh, yes..I went back and read you can use the kitchen..add that to the thoughts of bathrooms.

By the way, in reply to your other post, I'm glad to hear it is rare for you to see a cat run over where you live. I have always lived in cities and dread driving down the street to a signal light at times when I can see a lump in the road and see it is someone's or a stray cat...dead. So I really am glad it is a rare sight for you and can understand why that picture doesn't jump into your mind as it did in mine.

You do have a dilemma on moving. Have you moved with them before? What did you do then? How many hours do they have to be alone with each other without your supervision? I know of nothing that occupies a cat when they get bored.
They always seem to choose when and what they will play with.

Maybe you can use Google and research the subject on the Internet...I find behavior questions sometimes answered in other forums or on vet sites or just about lots of cat places. There are sites devoted to cats that usually have lots of suggestions.
You might try looking at those.


--------------------
LITTLE GUY - May 28, 1991 - Sept 10, 2007 - Always in my Heart.
His story: Section D&D: How do I stop crying? and also... My Boy is Gone Forever.

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gillian
post Mar 20 2008, 11:45 AM
Post #14





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



LoveThem,

We've moved with Sasha before, but that was before we had the baby, 2 of the dogs, the birds, the fish and Darcey. So Sasha was good to have a spare bedroom to herself which we won't have this time as we need a nursery now for our son. But we've never moved with Darcey ... The bathroom is a good idea! And the cage idea, although I'm not sure they'd ever forgive me. Darcey might. smile.gif That's interesting thoughts, and it's far better than risking a fight.

Oh that sounds nasty about the cats being run over a lot where you are from. Yes it does happen here too, but very rarely. I sometimes see animal carcasses on the road, and I slow the car down to take a look to see if it's a cat or dog (which I would take with me to locate the owner if there is any) but it seems to be always badgers or foxes I see, and sometimes the odd dog, but rarely a cat.

But yeah I know accidents happen everywhere. But still its been about a year since I've seen a dead cat on the road. I think the last dead cat I saw was about a half mile from our home and it was pure black like Sasha, and I pulled over feeling myself go cold with fright that it was my girl. But thank the Lord it wasn't. It was a stray ... My 2 seem to know to steer clear. I know there is a romote possibility one might get run over, but it's too romote for me to take drastic action to move them indoors. Maybe you'd see things differently if you lived where I'd do, and vice versa.

As for the house situation, thanks for the ideas!


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
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Ken Albin
post Mar 20 2008, 02:34 PM
Post #15





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 504
Joined: 30-April 05
From: St. Augustine, Florida
Member No.: 854



How to keep cats occupised indoors? That is a tough thing to do but it is possible. Here are the things that have worked for our 9 cats here:

1) Adopt a couple of younger cats/kittens. They will pester the older cats and give them exercise, as well as provide active playmates for those older cats who are kittens at heart and want to play.

2) Have a large number of different types of balls available. We have tons of rubber balls around for them to chase.

3) Have a couple of "kitty condos". These are two story rug covered circular objects with two openings. They love to chase each other around and through these.

4) Use the time you are home to actively play with them. I use feathers on a stick and lasers to encourage them to run all over the place. Quality time is important.

5) They love to play in boxes and paper sacks so I always have some on hand.

6) Our indoor bunny sometimes knocks bits of hay out of the cage. The cats love to play with these pieces of hay. It reminds me of the kid who plays with the boxes instead of the Christmas presents! It is a pain to clean up but they get so much enjoyment out of battling with pieces of hay that I encourage it.

I hope you can use one or more of these suggestions. With these our guys are all very well adjusted and happy.

Take care,
Ken Albin


--------------------

Daddy Cat left this world at the age of 17. His tribute page is at Daddy Cat's Tribute Page
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goliath
post Mar 20 2008, 08:06 PM
Post #16





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 1,153
Joined: 10-January 08
From: Michigan
Member No.: 4,239



Hi Ken..............LOL laugh.gif I loved your list of "things to do" to occupy your furry kids indoors. I know it brings me great happiness and joy to play with my furry kids.

What you said in your first suggestion made me laugh pretty hard. Those youngins definately have the prize for being little pests and send their over abundance of energy all around them. One of the reasons we are considering a new and young addition to our family is that since my Goliath passed away my Gidget isn't nearly as active as she was. We hope a new youngin in the house will put a little pep in her step.

Also in your 4th suggestion I loved the idea of playing with the laser. It is fun for both a furbaby as well ourselves to engage in lots of playtime. They stay healthier and happier and so do we.

When I kittysit next door for Brunis and Cherokee we play the whole time I am there. I use a flashlight that they love to chase around. When they get tired of the flashlight both of them like to get into my yarn. I don't get much knitting done when I am over there. But I sure get a lot of fun and pleasure out of the time spent with them.

Thanks Ken for your deep and true caring of others as well as the suggestions you offered. smile.gif


--------------------
Topics that include Goliath are:
Death of my Furry Baby Boy Chihuahua
Heartfelt Letter to my Goliath
Goliath and Gidget Pics
Happy Birthday Goliath
Goliath's Blessings
Bouncing Baby Browser (Goliath & Gidget's New Baby Brother)
Browser Is Missing!
Goliath Aloysius 1/25/1997 til 11/6/2007
My Gidgie Girl
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gillian
post Mar 21 2008, 07:13 AM
Post #17





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 210
Joined: 19-October 06
From: Ireland
Member No.: 2,199



JackJackBoJack,

I'm from Ireland, and so our summers are never particularly hot, and even at that, they have 24/7 access to catflaps and can come indoors whenever they choose. But they only ever seem to want to come indoors in the evenings. In the daytimes, even in warm weather, they prefer to lie under a bush in our garden.

As for the sick people around, yes there are sick people, but I've rarely heard of an incident over here where a cat has been harmed. And we live in a good area as well ... It's normally dogs who are victims to abuse over here, being hung, fought, beaten ... But rarely a cat. And even then, my cats do not go anywhere near strangers whilst they are outside the house, and even indoors, my cat Darcey will not allow someone she does not know to touch her. Shes been that way since I brought her home at 7-weeks-old. If I was to worry about any of my animals it would be my dogs. They have a yard and gardens where they run out our back, and I check on them often. I don't worry about my cats at all. I know they'll be fine.

It's also rare to see cats run over where I live. Mostly it's badgers, foxes and occasionally dogs. Sometimes there are cats, but rarely. And even then, my cats do not go near a main road. They stay close to my home. I can go outside and clap my hands and they come running to see what I want, so they're always close by.

As for animal control, both my cats are microchipped, which means animal control has access to my address and telephone number if they found my cat, and it's just a matter of phoning me or taking the cat home if they found either of them.

Yes there is risk but there is even more risk when we allow our children out to play that they might get lost, be kidnapped or run over, but we don't hesitate in doing that, so I don't see why we shouldn't allow our cats freedom as well, just because there is risk. There is risk for every living creature.

We don't have snakes, rabies or mosquitos here in Ireland. And my cats are wormed against every form of worm including heart worm every 3 months.

So it seems there may be more of a danger to your cats than mine, because of where we live. I am very comfortable with my decision to allow them to live freely, and they are very happy cats. Darcey is practically feral anyway, and she would become severely depressed if we brought her inside. She can't bear to be kept in for more than about half an hour at a time, and when she is indoors she's nervous and won't even nap. But the moment she is outside, she relaxes and begins to purr.

Glad your kitties are as happy as mine.


But each to their own. smile.gif


--------------------
My Beloved Bono: This Void is Immeasurable
Born: 25th March 1998
Died: 16th October 2006

My Beautiful Darcey: Come Home to Me
Born: 11th August 2006
Disappeared: 11th September 2008

Bono's Webpage:

http://www.in-memory-of-pets.com/personalt...te.php?ID=62356

Bono's LS Post:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3317

The Rainbow Bridge:

http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
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nyzki
post Mar 25 2008, 07:57 PM
Post #18





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 107
Joined: 3-April 07
From: Roseburg Oregon
Member No.: 2,799



I can tell you that I highly respect the advice that is given on here in regards to cats being kept indoors, however, my cats have gone outside ever since they were little. I have never had a problem with them roaming. More than likely since they are spayed and neutered. They dont seem to go far. Believe me I keep a close eye on my cats.

I have even gone as far to put a belled collar on my cats. So I can hear where they are at all times. My cats are vaccinated against possible diseases that can be transmitted by other animals.

Since I do live in a area where there are predatory critters, but they dont seem to bother my cats. And to tell you the truth there hasnt been a do%%ented case of Rabies in my town for years.

And my animals are not allowed out at night especially Boo since he is black and, I am afraid of him not being seen by the constant flow of traffic that we have on our street. But as posted earlier. whether to keep your cats inside or out is a personal choice,

And i am a very responsible pet owner who does care about my animals and ever one elses too.

Boo, nyzki & Poppy
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Ken Albin
post Mar 31 2008, 08:44 PM
Post #19





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 504
Joined: 30-April 05
From: St. Augustine, Florida
Member No.: 854



I don't know if you have anything like this available in Ireland but the hormone Feliway by Comfort Zone is a great calming spray. It really kept Princess from trying to kill the others while she adjusted to them. It is on the internet if you are interested. I highly recommend it and have used it with a number of rescue cats with good results.

Take care,
Ken Albin


--------------------

Daddy Cat left this world at the age of 17. His tribute page is at Daddy Cat's Tribute Page
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toonie
post Apr 1 2008, 05:41 AM
Post #20





Group: Pet Lovers
Posts: 628
Joined: 25-February 07
Member No.: 2,632



Must be a good day today but I sort of agree with everyone on this post biggrin.gif biggrin.gif biggrin.gif
Isn't it all simply a question of who what when where and how?
WHO :The cat must be wise to the ways of the outside world. If a cat was brought up inside without learning to fear other humans or other animals, it could be very dangerous for it to be placed in a vulnerable situation: an outdoor cat must beware of :other humans, dogs, cats , coyotes and fishercats! If the cat is wise to the ways of the world, that cat gets to live a fuller life, simple as that and good for the animal's soul.
Both my cats were free to roam for over their 12 years but illness got them instead.
WHAT: What condition is the cat in? I was told that it wasn't a good idea to let out a diabetic cat, in case it goes into a diabetic coma outside. Likewise an older, deaf or partially blind cat is sure to be hit by a car or tricked by a predator.
WHEN: There may be times where it is safe to let your cats out, for example here, when the dog is also outside we know that she will protect the house cats from danger. If we went out, the cats and the dog would be kept inside for their own safety. When we are outside too is a good time to share the fresh air, I have this lovely memory of my Yukon going a little bit beyond the backyard gardens here, headed towards a fox's den one early summer evening and the fox hissing and yelling his particular cry at Yukon, as if he was saying : Hey Buddy, you stay away from my turf, you go back to yours fellow!
WHERE: If I lived on Fifth Avenue NYC, or right by a highway, I would not let out my cat.
HOW: Using your own guidelines and common sense.


But I must agree with Ken Albin,there are many dangers out there and it is essential that we be aware of them. Unfortunately, I wonder if other people are not your pet's worst dangers. Not everyone gives them the respect and considereation that they deserve. Some will trap and drown your own pet if they find that they are annoying them (getting in their garden, spraying on their garage doors etc...). mad.gif I have known one person to kidnap her sister in law's cat and lose it out in the country. sad.gif
Some will use cats for their target practices ohmy.gif
So make sure you know your cat, your environment then decide for yourself.
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