One option to keep outdoor cats close is to offer food and water regularly to keep the cat in place. A fence or a gate can help, but make sure the cat can’t get out. Owning an outdoor cat close to home can be tricky, but it’s possible with some planning and effort.
Keeping an Outdoor Cat Close to Home
Enforce a Curfew
Cats are nocturnal animals and need their sleep to function correctly. It would help if you enforced a curfew for cats, so they don’t get stuck outdoors during the day or experience any health issues. Furthermore, having them indoors by 8 pm will help reduce their chances of getting lost or injured. If your cat starts behaving abnormally, it may be time for them to be rehomed, as it may not fit well in your home anymore.
Get a GPS Tracker
If you’re like many cat owners, you worry about where your pet is and what might be happening to them. An excellent way to reduce that anxiety is by getting a GPS tracking system for your cat. There are many different models on the market, each boasting features that make it better suited for specific situations. Choosing one with a wide range is essential so you can cover as much ground as possible.
Additionally, ensure the tracker has high accuracy so you can track down your kitty even when they’re out of sight! And finally, remember to install the tracking system properly; this will help ensure accurate readings every time.
Get It Microchipped
Getting your cat microchipped is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure its safety. Not only will this help if he gets lost or stolen, but you can also use it as a way to keep him close by when you’re out and about. For example, you can attach a collar with a bell to his neck so that you’ll be able to find him quickly, no matter where he might go.
Consider an Outdoor Enclosure
An outdoor enclosure can provide your cat with plenty of fresh air and a view of the outside world. Please ensure the enclosure is weatherproof and has a roof to keep them dry on rainy days. Outdoor enclosures are perfect for cats who love running and playing – give them lots of space!
Make Food and Water Available
One of the best ways to keep your cat close to home is to provide them with a warm place to sleep, plenty of toys, and access to food and water. This way, they will not only be content but also safe. In addition, make sure their playing area stays clean so your cat doesn’t get bored or injured there.
Make It Familiar With The Surroundings
Make sure the cat you’re bringing home is used to its surroundings. Introduce it gradually to new people and places, slowly acclimatizing it to your house. Feed the cat outside so it gets used to being around people and familiar surroundings – cats love the outdoors!
Plus, set up a scratching post or ramp for the cat inside so that climbing in isn’t a problem. And finally, give your new kitty treats as rewards for good behavior! This will help keep him entertained and close by while you get acquainted with him better!
Get a Bright Collar With Your Contact Info
It is essential to keep your contact information and identification documents close in case of an emergency. Not only will this help you if something happens to you, but it’s also a safeguard against cat strays or theft who might wander away from home.
A bright collar with your contact information can also be helpful for outdoor cats – by making it easy for people to find them, it reduces the chances of them getting lost or injured. For example, you can buy unique collars that emit a loud noise should your cat try to escape.
Get Another Cat
If you cannot find another cat that suits your needs, try training your outdoor cat using a leash and a clicker. Ensure to provide plenty of toys so they don’t get bored and run away. You can also try getting an indoor cat, which will keep the outdoor cat close to home. They will eventually get along and play together, preventing the outdoor cat from running away.
Talk To Your Neighbors
Keeping an eye on your cat when they are out and about is essential to ensure they don’t get lost in a crowd. If you can’t find them yourself, ask your neighbors if they have seen them around or know where your home is. If all else fails, consider setting up a makeshift ‘cat fence’ with some trees or garden fencing – be sure to keep it safe for both of you!
Provide It With Shelter
Providing a cat with shelter, fresh food, and water is one of the most important tasks you can perform as a pet owner. Not only will this help keep your cat safe, but it will also prevent it from wandering away or getting lost. Make sure an indoor and outdoor shelter is available for your cat.
If the cat gets out of the house, provide nearby refuge like trees or gardens if it needs some time to calm down. Providing food and water should be easy – place them in a spot readily accessible for kitties!
Build a Catio
A catio is a great way to keep your outdoor cat close by while providing them with some playtime. Whether you buy one or build it yourself, you should keep a few things in mind.
- Make sure the Catio is large enough for your pet to run around and play – they’ll love it!
- Provide toys and food dishes so your cat has something to occupy its time.
- Consider installing a perch so the kitty can sit atop without having to leap up high onto the railing ends of the Catio. This will provide an extra level of safety for them (and you!).
Spay/Neuter It
Spaying and neutering your cat is one of the most important things you can do to help reduce the population. It will also help outdoor control roaming, minimizing their chances of mistreating or attacking other animals or humans. If you can’t afford it right now, try fencing your cat in or keeping it indoors as much as possible.
