No cat, no neighborhood, is immune from danger. Give your cat a long, safe, healthy life - indoors!

"Did you know outdoor living can be hazardous to an urban (or suburban) cat? Automobiles, other animals, parasites and viruses all pose threats to the outdoor cat. Overpopulation continues to be an issue of concern to cat-enthusiasts, as well. Experts suggest providing indoor cats with outdoor amenities instead. Herb plants that are safe to chew on, interesting toys, lots of opportunities to play or even a second cat can keep your favorite feline satisfied and may also extend its lifespan." ˜Taken from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Lethal risks that can be avoided if your cat by keeping your cat indoors:

• TRAFFIC: To listen to some people, a pet's "getting hit by a car" is just part of pet ownership. This is a tremendously painful experience, and If not immediately fatal can lead to either an expensive bill – ranging upwards of $1000 or having to make the tough decision to euthanize due to expense. Not to mention that drivers may be injured who are involved in the accident or swerve to avoid the accident.
• POISON: Although it is illegal and inhumane, some people put out a poisonous substance to get rid of neighborhood cats. Poison also may be put out for other animals, and cats are accidentally poisoned, especially mice and rats. Cats also find the sweet taste of antifreeze appealing, and even a very small amount can permanently destroy the kidneys resulting in death or euthanasia.
• CRUELTY: Unfortunate, but true, there are more than enough people in this world who are intentionally cruel to animals, and cats are at great risk.
• INJURIES: If your cat goes outside, it risks injurious or deadly fights with other animals, and also exposure to those animal's diseases. Bite wounds often abcess, resulting in a serious injury for your pet, and a bill for you. Some of these wounds can lead to contracting potentially fatal diseases like FIV or Rabies.
• WILDLIFE LOSS: Domestic cats contribute to countless deaths of songbirds, rabbits and their feces are even contributing the death of sea lions!

How to Keep Your Inside Cat Happy

Make Life Inside Fun -- Toys, playtime with you, a window to look out of, scratching posts, and a few twigs of catnip from time to time more than compensate for the risks your cat faces outdoors.

If you want your cat to occasionally enjoy walks outdoors, and you have them vaccinated and treated for fleas, leash training your cat may be one option. Some cats are 'naturals' at leash walking, while others may take a bit more effort.

You can build a cat habitat that gives them grass but keeps other cats out and your cat in.

You can put up cat fencing or try an invisible fence to keep your cat safe (this may not help keep some dangers at bay seeing as other cats can make it in as well as other predators.)

Most cats – if given enough stimulation can be converted to an indoor only cat even if previously been allowed to roam. Kittens are easy, because the only lifestyle they know is in the comfort of a safe home.

Ask your veterinarian for more ideas and helpful hints on how to keep your cat happy and healthy and inside.