Our cat was an inside outside cat for his first year (we got him when he was 8 weeks old). Then we moved into an apartment and lived on the third floor, so really he couldn't go out at all.
We recently got a house and he is itching to go out again. How long should I give him before he can go out again? I don't mind him going out...I just don't want him to run off.
Answers:
About 2 weeks.
I would let him look out a window (preferably open) so he can get used to the sites and sounds (and smells) of the new area. Maybe carry him outside once in awhile to let him look around without putting him down.
Then when you're ready leave the door cracked open so he can go outside, but can run back in if there is anything 'scary' out there. That is how some cats get lost, they get scared and can't run in the house, and they just.run. Then they don't know where they are.
I would also collar train him BEFORE he ever goes out. Then then tape your name, address, and phone number on the collar, just to be on the safe side.
I would keep him in at night though. That is when most 'bad' things happen to cats. And you don't know what roams at night in the new neighborhood.
Your cat is lucky to have an owner who cares.
Indoor cats live an average of two years longer than outdoor cats. There are so many bad things that can happen to cats that are permitted to go outside. They can be hurt (or killed) by cars, other animals, bad people, etc. It would be best for your cat to stay indoors.
Make sure he is neutered... if he is not then don't let him out at all.. There are so many unwanted pets out there don't be the problem!
But if he neutered, let him adjust to his new surroundings and then I see no problem!
Give him about a week before you let him out. That way he will get a feel for the area. It would be a good idea to get a cat door so he can come in and out when you are ready to let him out. One way to train him to stay around the house is to go outside with him. Make sure you have a collar for him just incase he wanders away. Keep an eye on him while he is outside and eventually he should be comfortable with your new house. Outdoor cats know their surroundings and where their home is, and if he loves you and wants to live with you he will come back if he does wander off. Also he will be able to smell his own scent too so other cats know not to come in. My cat ran away once, but she came back. There are things that could hurt your cat outside, so you should probably let him in at night. Like someone else said mae sure he is neutered that is a good idea too. So, just make sure you take him out with you sometimes and everything should be fine.
I USUALLY wait about 2 weeks. I've moved about 10 times, and the kitties have had to get used to atleast 6 new spots. I've not had any problems going only a week though...It kind of depended on when they starting acting pissy about it..than I was like, ok, good lluck guys, have a good time out there,lol. I do also try to go w/ them atleast in yard for a few minutes and get them used to smells etcc...ur kitty will be fine, good luck.
You can let him go out with you at first for a few minutes at a time, till he gets used to being out again, and will remember where home is. If you think he would tolerate a leash you can try that first too. But I think if he knows you well, you can probably just let him go out, if there are no highways or anything close by. Cats are really wild animals that allow us to be their friends. Keeping cats cooped up in a house forever is cruel. I have a pet door that my cats go in and out of freely. However, I do get the occassional bird or mouse too! Make sure he has his shots, and flea protection first too.
GOOD LUCK!
We used to let our cats outside. However, cats that live outdoors tend to have much shorter lifespans and have the added risk of getting hit by cars or stolen/killed by neighbors. Our neighbor had all three of her cats disappear in one week! After we had two cats get hit and killed by cars, one get shot in the neck by a beebee gun (he was fine, but ouch!), and another one end up with an inexplicable disease (that also killed him), we got the hint.
I know they love to be outside, but if you want your friend to live a longer life, don't let them out alone. Get a harness or outdoor running cage with a top on it, unless you can 100% guarantee that the cat will stick by you when outside--some will, my mom's does.
why not now? just keep an eye on him at first and try keeping him from wondering to far but in the case he does take off rest asure he will probably come back in a few days. my moms male takes off for 4 5 days at a time then comes home all wet and muddy. its natural for a male cat to hunt away from home just know that even in the country things happen i had a male growing up that got caught in a bear trap in the woods but managed to get home after the hunter released him and all he lost was his leg not his life, had another male get into it with a copperhead and get bite he wasn't so lucky to get to the vet in time.
Cats don't get lost like dogs nor do they run off. He knew he was home the minute he got there. Mine loves to park in the eve of my house and jump BlueJays as they fly by.. He will catch then in mid air.. And if he is not catching jays , he will go out and hunt field mice/rats. He will be out often more than a day but he is always home eventually... He is not neutered, but the girls come to him, he wont leave for them
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