During the holiday season I found myself with a large number of clients that had cats. With that being said I set out to learn more about the welfare and health of cats with owners that keep them indoors.
First and most important, cats that live indoors have a much longer life span than those that are free roamers. Some cat owners feel it is cruel to deprive their kitty from the adventure that awaits them in the great outdoors.
Indoor only cats run a lower risk of being exposed to toxins, such as antifreeze and rat poison and they aren't victims of pranks.
The cats we never hear from again... I can't tell you the number of times my clients
call with the sad news that their kitty just up and vanished. Makes you wonder, doesn't it? A loyal pet that you have had for years doesn't come home one day. It is sad but it is a fact. Nine out of ten times the cat has become a victim to the outdoor environment.
Here in Austin, and the Texas Hill Country that surrounds us, we recognize that cats that live in areas that are adjacent to wilderness are more likely to be attacked by a predator while those that live in the city stand a higher risk of being hit by a car. According to a study done for HSUS in 2001, two out of three veterinarians suggested that their clients keep their cats indoors. The primary concerns about letting cats outside were the dangers from vehicles (65%) and the possibility of catching diseases (56%).
I love the cats I sit for. They are always excited to see me when I come go visit and feed them. I know you love your pets and want to protect them from harm and keep them in good health.
In coming weeks I will be adding more information on how you can create a healthy and
safe (not boring) environment for your Kitty.
If I can be of help or you need a sitter please call me or visit the website www.austincitypaws.com .
Happy New Year and love that kitty.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
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