Indoor and Outdoor Cats

Will your kitten be an indoor or an outdoor cat? By understanding their natural instincts, you can make sure they have a happy life wherever they roam.

Natural territory

In the wild, the territory of a big cat is usually divided into a small home range, with a wider hunting range beyond. Your house will be your kitten’s home range. If your kitten stays inside, their wider range will extend up to the limits of where they can go. If they go outside, this wider range may bigger than you think! In this case, their territory will be determined by the availability of food, and the territories of other cats.

Outdoor kittens

If you have an outdoor kitten, your little hunter will have no shortage of stimulation. They'll set up their own territory, using trees and other vantage points to patrol it, and scratches and scent to mark it.

While it’s true that this environment – which offers your kitten natural opportunities for hunting, climbing and exploring – can sometimes be dangerous, remember that your kitten has a powerful survival instinct. So even if they're out and about a lot, don’t worry!

Identification

If you’re going to let your cat outside, make sure you fit them with an elasticated collar and name tag. Also, speak to your vet about getting them micro-chipped – this will help identify them in the unlikely event your kitten gets lost.

Unusual events

Thunderstorms, fireworks and loud parties can all be scary for a little kitten. If you know events like these are happening in your area, keep your feline friend safe and secure inside.

Hazards at home

Keeping your kitten inside means you don’t have to worry about the outside world. All the same, your little indoor adventurer can still get into trouble! Inquisitive kittens just love to explore things like fireplaces, chimneys, unsecured windows, hobs, washing machines and tumble driers. Make sure you check such places regularly and, if you can, keep them closed when they're not in use.

Keeping them entertained

Indoor kittens need plenty of stimulation. That way they can follow their natural instincts for playing and hunting. Make sure your kitten has plenty of toys, a good scratching post, places to climb, and a spotless litter tray.