Advice for Cat Owners 145
Particularly if the cat does not have constant access back into the house whenever
it wants, an outdoor enclosure should contain all that the cat requires, including:
● Food and water.
● Litter trays.
● Comfortable resting areas.
● Shelter from cold and wet and access to both sun and shade.
● Multiple hiding places and elevated areas.
● Appropriate environmental enrichment (see Appendix 1).
More detailed information on cat-proof fencing and enclosures can be accessed from
International Cat Care (https://icatcare.org/advice/fencing-your-garden).
Lead and harness
Some cats adapt well to being taken for a walk on a harness and lead, and this can
also be a good way to introduce a young cat to the great outdoors and allow it to
explore its territory before allowing it out by itself. However, not all cats will accept
wearing a harness and some can become frustrated from being restrained or increas-
ingly fearful and stressed if they are prevented from escaping a real or perceived
threat encountered on a walk.
Introducing a cat to wearing a harness can have a greater chance of success if
started when the cat is young, preferably under 1 year old, and should be approached
gradually, using praise and food treats to encourage good associations with the har-
ness. It is important also to ensure that the harness is comfortable and well-fitting,
and that the cat is relaxed when wearing the harness, before attaching a lead and
taking the cat outside.
Cat Flaps
Being reliant on a human to open doors to allow access outside or back inside away
from bad weather and threats such as other cats, can be a source of stress and frus-
tration for a pet cat. Fitting a cat flap to allow the cat the freedom to come and go as
he pleases can be an ideal solution. However, a cat flap can also be a source of stress
and conflict with other cats if it allows neighbouring cats access into the home or if
it is perceived by the resident cat(s) as being a possible access point for intruders.
Where the cat flap is positioned and the type of cat flap fitted can, however, make this
much less of an issue (see Appendix 8).
Neutering
Neutering (also see Appendix 4) is essential for pet cats that are allowed free outdoor
access, but it can also be an important part of stress limitation and reducing unwanted
behaviours such as urine spraying and aggression in both outdoor and indoor cats.
Unneutered cats are far more likely to roam further and get into serious fights with
other cats. Sexually entire females are also very likely to become pregnant if allowed