Cats Indoors Initiative
A Win-Win-Win Proposal
A Win for Cats
Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives. They are protected from traffic, predators, diseases, parasites, and extreme weather.
Lower risk of injury and illness - cars, coyotes, cat fights and more
Longer average lifespan - indoor (13-17 years) vs outdoor (2-5 years)
More consistent care and nutrition
The Great Outdoors is no place for a cat!
A Win for Birds & Wildlife
Cats are natural hunters. Keeping cats indoors helps protect native birds, small mammals, and reptiles.
Healthier local ecosystems
Fewer birds and animals killed each year
Fewer butterflies and beneficial insects killed each year
A Win for Cat Owners
Happier cat owners because:
Lower stress because you aren’t worried about where your cat is or whether your cat has been injured or killed
Lower veterinary bills
No conflicts with neighbors or authorities
More quality time with your cat
Less worry about your cat bringing disease back to your home (toxoplasmosis, rabies)
Guilt-free bird feeding since your indoor cat is no threat to the birds you are feeding
Issues Posed by Outdoor Cats
Cats are the number one cause of direct human-caused bird mortality
2.4 billion birds killed by cats each year in the US alone
Cats are expert hunters with strong prey drives, and their unnatural introduction by people to new environments around the world threatens native species, disrupts ecosystems, and spreads disease
Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy
Catios and outdoor enclosures
Bay windows and screened-in porches
Harness, strollers, and backpacks
Indoor enrichment
Cat exercise wheel
Enrichment and play such as posts, toys, boxes, bags, and cat grass
