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Centre for Pet Nutrition for providing the funding to support the publication of this thematic issue of papers, and the Gerontological Society of America for support of a workshop that brought together experts in the fields of Human–Animal Interaction and Aging to discuss this important topic. Conflicts of Interest The authors state there are no conflicts of interest. References Anderson, K. A., Lord, L. K., Hill, L. N., & McCune, S. (2015). Fostering the human–animal bond for older adults: Challenges and opportunities. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 39, 32–42. Branson, S., Boss, L., Padhye, N., Gee, N. R., & Trotscher, T. (2019). Biopsychosocial factors and cognitive function in cat ownership and attachment in community-dwelling older adults. Anthrozoös, 32(2), 267–282. Brugarolas, R., Dieffenderfer, J., Walker, K., Wagner, A., Sherman, B., Roberts, D., & Bozkurt, A. (2014, November). Wearable wireless biophotonic and biopotential sensors for canine health monitoring. 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Resnick, B., & McCune, S. (2019). Introduction “Should my cat be an indoor cat or an outdoor cat?” This question plagues cat owners across the United States. The conflict arises when owners want to ensure the happiness of their feline friends, but are concerned about their safety outside of the house. Statistics show that indoor cats lead longer, healthier lives than outdoor cats. Indoor cats live on average 10-15 years, while outdoor cats live on average 2-5 years This handout is intended to help you sort out the pros and cons associated with each lifestyle so you can rest assured your cat will have both an enriched life and protection from environmental hazards. Following are some of the reasons for and against choosing to keep your cat indoors: Here are some reasons to keep your cat inside: 1. Be hit by vehicles 2. Become injured from other cats, or attacked by other dogs or predators 3. Contract deadly infectious diseases from other cats 4. Get lost and/or picked up by Animal Control 5. Poisoned by toxins, such as antifreeze or rat bait 6. Contract parasites, such as fleas and ticks (and the diseases they can carry) 7. Contact with environmental hazards, such as foxtails or other objects 8. Hunt native wildlife, some of them species of conservation concern 9. Unhappy neighbors may try to trap cats found littering their yards 10. Theft, injury, or death from people with cruel intentions Addressing the myths: 1. Indoor cats don't get the exercise they need, which can lead to a weight problem. You can help your cat get more exercise and stay fit by enriching your household. A cat tree will give your cat a place to climb as well as sharpen their claws. A supply of toys, such as toy mice, corks from bottles, or wandtype toys, can trigger your cat's natural instinct to hunt and pounce. Even something as simple as an old box or a paper bag can become a play toy, indulging a cat’s love of hiding. Some cats need a little more prompting to become active. Making some time to play with your cat daily can give your cat more stimulation and exercise as well as being a bonding activity. 2. Cats are not completely domesticated and love the outdoors, fresh air and sunshine of their natural environment. Many indoor cats get just as much enjoyment from sitting on a windowsill, smelling the breeze and chattering at the birds. In fact, one study shows that cats use windows and sunlight less than many owners expect.
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