Although cats are smart, alert, and adroit, they are no match for the many perils that await them outside. That's why the average outdoor cat lives only a third as long than the cat who's kept safely inside.
Outside cats are even more likely than dogs to dome into contact with rabid wild animals.
Parasites - Outdoor cats suffer from fleas, ticks, ear mites, and worms that indoor cats are not generally exposed to. Poisoning - Poisons are found in lawn chemicals, bait left out to kill rodents, antifreeze, and other sources. Other Animals - Fights with other cats, dogs, and wildlife often leave cats maimed or injured. In our own community as well as others across the nation, cats have been the victims of burning, ritual torture and other abuses. Cars - Cats often crawl into warm car engines in cold weather and are killed or badly injured when the unsuspecting driver starts the car.