Cat owners who encourage their feline companions to stay indoors during the evening could help them live longer, according to experts. A recent report indicates that approximately 10.2 million cats are kept as pets across the UK, with most expected to live for 11.7 years or more. However, adopting one key habit could further boost their chances of a longer, healthier life.
The Risks of Outdoor Adventures at Night
Cats that venture outdoors face greater dangers, including road traffic accidents, fights with other cats, and various other hazards. The same report highlights growing concerns over cats being injured or going missing, leading more owners to keep their cats inside. A spokesperson for Cats Protection stated: "The risks of your cat being involved in a road traffic accident or fighting with another cat are higher at night. We recommend keeping them indoors when it's dark."
With the UK approaching summer, it stays lighter much later into the evening—sometimes beyond 10pm. But in winter, it can be dark before 4pm. For owners who want their cats to enjoy the outdoors safely, the charity advises controlled, supervised access using a harness, a lead, or a secure outdoor enclosure.
The Challenge of Indoor Living
However, keeping a cat indoors permanently can limit their exercise opportunities. The charity added: "It's important that indoor cats are able to perform behaviours that express their natural cat-like nature. If they can't, it leads to stress, which in turn may result in problem behaviours such as spraying or scratching in unwanted areas of the home, obsessive grooming, or physical illness."
Nearly a quarter (24%) of cat owners polled believe their feline companions will enjoy a longer life if kept indoors. Yet, there are still considerable risks linked to being an indoor pet—whether semi-permanently or full-time. A Cats Protection spokesperson noted: "[Cats] can still develop diseases or illnesses that shorten their lifespan. The indoor environment predisposes to obesity and diseases related to a sedentary lifestyle, such as diabetes and lower urinary tract disease."
Currently, there is limited evidence to suggest that adopting either an indoor or outdoor lifestyle results in a significantly longer lifespan. Both indoor and outdoor cats experience different potential risks to their welfare.
How to Help Your Cat Live Longer
Here are some ways responsible owners can boost their cat's life expectancy:
- Get them neutered: Cats Protection claims neutered cats tend to live longer. They are less likely to roam far from home or have close contact with other cats, reducing the risk of injury and disease spread.
- Have regular vet checks and get vaccinations: Taking your cat to the vet for a check-up at least once a year helps catch health issues early. Ensure vaccinations are up to date to protect against nasty diseases.
- Encourage exercise: Whether your cat goes outdoors or not, spend time each day encouraging play. This helps them stay physically fit.
- Feed a healthy diet: Provide complete cat food suitable for their age, offering all necessary nutrients. Avoid too many treats, as they can be high in calories and cause weight gain.
