Actually, this is not accurate. Cats that are free to roam are more subject to mites, ticks, diseases, and death by roadkill and by other animals than cats that are never allowed outdoors. Cats are the domestic animals most frequently reported as rabid to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many cat owners understand that keeping their cats indoors is better for their pets, wildlife, and themselves. Many owners of outdoor cats indicated in a recent poll that their next cat will be an indoor cat.
Some myths prevail about roaming cats.
Well-fed cats do kill wildlife. The hunting instinct is independent of the urge to eat. Cats with bells on their collars do kill birds. Birds do not necessarily associate the sound of a bell with danger, and cats with bells learn to stalk their prey silently. Birds that seem to escape don't get away unharmed.