Indoor vs Outdoor

Although a cat will display more natural behaviour having access to outdoors, there can be many risks to their health and lifespan. Where you live will have a big impact on this too.

Historically cats were outdoor creatures. They were kept for pest control and very rarely came inside the house. It’s only since we have truly domesticated the cat and sought companionship that we question which is best for our cat. There are merits to both lifestyles for a cat. So let’s weight up the pros and cons…

The physical risks are a lot lower for an indoor cat. They’re known to live longer if their needs are properly met. Being indoors also reduces their chances of trauma and injury.

Pros

◊ Safe from predators

◊ Safe from traffic accidents

◊ Safe from toxins, transmittable disease and parasites.

◊ All the creature comforts of a home

◊ Ease of mind knowing your cat is safe at home

◊ Can help form a better relationship between cat and owner

◊ Can lead sedentary lives indoor

◊ Boredom

◊ Not able to display natural hunting instincts

◊ Frustration

If you decide to keep your cat indoors, it’s super important to provide mental enrichment. Otherwise they might just claw your house to shreds! You know, dogs aren’t the only ones who play fetch! Get interactive with your kitty and encourage their hunting behaviour. Read “Is my cat bored” on our blog for more ideas. Cats also love having somewhere to hide in the house, especially when they’re up high so they can watch over their kingdom from a safe distance.

◊ Can display a more natural behaviour

◊ Bigger territory

◊ Interesting environment

◊ More control

◊ Less frustration from confinement

◊ Better exercise

Cons

Pros Cons

◊ At risk from predators – wild animals, other cats and dogs

◊ At risk to injuries from traffic and exploring

◊ Toxic plants/chemicals

◊ Catching diseases & parasites

◊ Getting lost or caught in poor weather conditions

◊ At risk from human cruelty

◊ Negative impact on wildlife population – birds and small mammals

If you’re unsure about whether you’d like to have an indoor or outdoor cat, why not build a catio? This is a safe enclosure for your cat to roam, sunbathe, listen to the birds and play with the bugs without the dangers of the great outdoors.

A 2021 study from Nottingham Trent University shows that nearly half of cats are kept indoors, and the number is expected to grow. It’s more important than ever to ensure that indoor cats have lots of stimulation inside the house. Sounds exhausting, right? Don’t worry, cats sleep for 12-16 hours a day so they’ll soon run off for a well-needed cat nap!

As Burns hits its 30th anniversary, we’re reminiscing over the story of how we got to where we are today. Our hometown is an important part of our story and holds a dear place in our hearts. So let’s take a journey through the history of Kidwelly, and our beloved black cat.

Everywhere has its tales, stories and fables. So, what about the home of Burns Pet Nutrition? Kidwelly is blessed with the beautiful Carmarthenshire countryside, mountains, coast and a stunning Norman castle. But how exactly did this furry explorer become the ancient town’s mascot? The little black cat sits on signs, buildings and structures around the little ancient town of Kidwelly. This has many stories surrounding its origin.