You say that with sarcasm. Fortunately you. I would let my Squeaky out because I know it’s his nature. He was my first cat. His mom left him under my deck. He couldn’t have been more than a few days old (they said). We had 3 1/2 wonderful years. The last night I let him out when I arrived home, he went out at 9pm. At midnight, my mind said, “go call Squeaky in” but, I said, “na, he likes it out there; I’ll let him stay a little bit longer” at approximately 12:30am I head Squeaky belt out an eerie screech, like when I nearly step on him. I ran down the stair and flew out the door. I searched and it began to rain. I searched for hours…calling. Praying, “God, just let me find his fur so that I can give him a proper burial” 2 years later…no Squeaky. He loved me; if he was a live he would have come back to me. I worked at Purina so I had a constant reminder; needless to say, I sobbed daily for at least 6 months straight. The UPS guy felt sorry for me so, one day he stopped by and informed me of a customer that found some kittens, and asked if he could give her my number. I was still hurting and didn’t want to get close to anything else again but, reluctantly I went and got two of the three. She didn’t let me get them until they were already 5 weeks (they had bonded with her). I love them but not to the extent of Squeaky. I wish I had never let him out that night.

So you just let your cats run the neighbor hood and shit on other peoples property? That cat would be trapped and taken to the animal pound if I caught it…

It’s not a cage!! When a cat is allowed to run free outside, it’s vulnerable to so many things that can do it harm. Cars, raccoons, coyotes, poison, cruel people, ticks, fights with other cats, dogs, rabies, poisoned rodents, and so many other things like diseases. Having an outdoor in closure keeps them somewhat safe and they can sit in the sun and smell the breeze and watch the wildlife.
I really don’t understand people that think it’s mean to keep a cat inside. If you provide the right environment for playing, climbing and window seats for them to watch the outside – they can be happy and healthy. I had a neighbor tell me I was cruel for trapping my cats inside. He said they should only be outside. When I told him of the dangers……he said “That’s nature”….NO….it is not, if you don’t protect your cat – a member of the family, thinking – oh well, that’s nature if they die……then you are irresponsible and shouldn’t have a cat or you don’t know better and need to learn what the risks are. They are fragile DOMESTICATED creatures in a big world and you should do what you can to keep them safe.

Trying to find a way to satisfy my cat’s predator urges (other than I) yet keep her safe and out of neighbor’s yards. This might be a good idea.

Cats ARE predators!