Are Cats Happier Outside?

If you are a cat owner, you know that you will either have a cat that loves to run out the door or a cat that simply has no interest in what is beyond the couch. In my experience, 75% of my cats have all been quite curious about what the outside has to offer. Living on a small farm, I was used to cats coming into the house for food and leaving when they were ready for their next exploration. In fact, I was under the impression that cats enjoyed being outside more than being stuck inside of a home. According to, “Are outdoor cats happier?” a recent study found that cats who roamed freely shorten their lifespan by 10-12 years!

When a cat goes outside, concerns about cars, other animals, toxic plants, poisons, and other cats are all heightened. Dr. Graham, Chief Veterinarian at Animal Humane Society says, “Though it’s true that it’s much easier for your cat to get enrichment outside, it’s still possible for a cat to live as happy of a life indoors without all the risks'.

There are some alternatives that still allows your cat to be outside. 

• Leash training
• Catio

Since I was a little girl, I grew up with the idea that cats are happier when they can do what they want whenever they want to. Taking something away that they love would be cruel! However, there is always a safer approach in doing so. I have already tried the leash training with no luck! I suppose the next best thing would be a kitty coral!

Source: https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/news/are-outdoor-cats-happier