How do you keep a house cat from running off?

1. 58

   Kennedi Brownposted 13 years ago

   How do you keep a house cat from running off?
   
   Every single cat I have ever had has ran away. They do it gradually by showing up less and less until, finally, they're gone for good. I suppose I could fix this by never letting the cat out of the house, but I know that cats need to be able to play outside.

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2. 58

   Dragonrainposted 13 years ago

   Cats do not need to be able to play outside.
   
   There are many ways to keep indoor cats happy and well exercised.  Outside not only are cats themselves in danger, but they put wildlife, other pets, and other people's property in danger as well.

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3. 58

   Kennedi Brownposted 13 years ago

   So it's completely alright to keep a cat inside the house? That's good to know. I live rather close to a main road, too, so I'd rather not risk it getting run over.

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   1. 58

      Dragonrainposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes   Lots of people have indoor only cats.  It really is safest for the cat to keep them indoors.

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4. 89

   Lucky Catsposted 13 years ago

   If you can keep your kitty close, perhaps in an enclosed cattery...made of meshed wire 2"x4" or "chicken" wire with topping made of shade cloth or another means to keep kitty enclosed..you would be more successful in keeping your companions close to home.  I rarely allow my cats to wander outside unattended...if I choose to let one out, it is while I'm outside doing yard work and gardening.  First, though, if you DO allow your cat to wander outdoors alone, make sure that the inside environment is a happy one for kitty.  Loud kids, aggressive dogs or other cats may cause a cat to wander...and,, eventually, find another home...or worse..not find an alternative home.  You must make sure your cat is happy, safe and satisfied at home...and that he/she will naturally return to that safe, happy home.  My best suggestion, though, is to build an outside cattery that allows your feline friend to enjoy the outdoors without wandering off. This is the best bet.

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5. 58

   consentinoposted 12 years ago

   Try getting your cat something that will keep him entertained in the house and not bored.  When a cat is bored he will get into a lot more mischief or run off.  Our daughter got her 2 felines their own cat tree.  It keeps them entertained all day.  Go on line and you can see all size variations and prices.
   
   
   www.petsareagift.com

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6. 0

   lisasuniquevoiceposted 12 years ago

   Kennedi Brown,
   
   First if the cat is spayed or neutered it's a proven fact that they won't go so far from the house if let outside.Next, it's a good idea to go out with your cat on a regular basis  at first so you can call him back if he starts going too far. I have found that feeding them right when they come in helps bring them home. When the cat doesn't come when I call for him at the end of the day I crinkle the cat treat bag and shake it up and down. Cats come running when they know they're going to get treats. I have trained the cats inside with the treats first. Just don't give them to them all of the time.The sound of the bag and the treats shaking has brought my cat home on many occasions.
   
   Lisa

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7. 85

   ii3rittlesposted 10 years ago

   I take my cat out on a harness. I trained him to be okay with this from a kitten. Cats are perfectly happy indoors, so long as you do it right.
   
   http://purrfectlove.net/2014/06/keeping … cat-happy/
   
   That link provides tips on keeping an indoor cat happy. I would NEVER let my cats outside unsupervised, specially where I live. Lots of hawks and coyotes.

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