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Do you let your cat outside? Many of us did back in the day and that has changed for most of us. But we still see cats roaming in our neighborhoods, hiding out under parked cars, wandering through empty lots and sleeping under shrubs. Recently a neighbor\u2019s cat wandered too far away and was lost for a full three ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.matilijapress.com\/catscapades\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/catcollarribbons-225x300.jpg\")
weeks. Everyone kept an eye out for the cat, when suddenly, out of the blue three weeks later he walked into his house as if nothing had happened.<\/p>\n
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As a reward, his human grandpa bought him a window-perch hammock and this, and maybe whatever experiences he had while he was gone, have kept him home ever since. Now, instead of going out exploring every day, he just relaxes in his hammock watching the world ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.matilijapress.com\/catscapades\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/MollyAnnieclose-225x300.jpeg\")
through the window.<\/p>\n
What else can you do to keep your cat from wandering? Build her a catio. It could be simple and small or elaborate and large. I know of one that includes an ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.matilijapress.com\/catscapades\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Mollychewie-225x300.jpeg\")
elevated screened in walkway that weaves in amongst trees through an orchard\u2014yes above ground. Such fun for the adventuring cat. Provide greater enrichment for your cat indoors with cat trees and toys. Cardboard boxes are also intriguing for some cats. I used to make houses and mazes with boxes for our cats. Play with your cat more\u2014she\u2019ll begin to look forward to those one-on-one activities.<\/p>\n
The best way to keep a cat inside is to start from day one\u2014make it a rule. Just never let the cat out. I\u2019ve had just one cat out of around 15 who refused to stay inside. She didn\u2019t go out much, but she simply HAD to have her outdoor time.<\/p>\n
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Do you let your cat outside? Many of us did back in the day and that has changed for most of us. But we still see cats roaming in our neighborhoods, hiding out under parked cars, wandering through empty lots … Continue reading