To think having an indoor cat is cruel?

Sorry I don’t remember stating that the ICC demands all cats stay indoors, so I’m confused by what the point of this comment is? It’s my stance as a professional and one that I won’t ever change.

What a silly statement.

I love my son, but I let him play out with his friends despite the fact he could get injured or kidnapped. It makes him happy, it’s good exercise and it’s natural.

I love my cats. If they want to go out I let them- it makes them happy, it’s good exercise and it’s natural.

If cats didn’t have a desire and drive to go out, you wouldn’t have to ‘keep them in’, or fanny around with a catio because they would choose to stay in (as some of mine do).

Assuming this is the ICC site you are referring to - their site does not state cats that shouldn't go out.

icatcare.org/?s=Indoor+v+outdoor+

It’s horrible. Interestingly I know of a vegan who does it, which I find very odd

Who are you to say I'm a bad cat owner?!! I've had cats for 40 years, all of them could go outside whenever they want, no vet has ever said they shouldn't, so I'll go by the vet's expertise thanks!

Lots of defensive bad cat owners on this thread!

If they come into the garden I wouldn’t call them indoor cats.

My cats have been indoor cats up until a few weeks ago when we adopted them- they are a year old.

We let them out- one goes off on adventures, the other wonders half way down the small backyard then legs it back in at the slightest breeze or sight of a leaf. 99.9% of the time he completely ignores the open doors, and he refuses to use the cat flap.

We used to have a cat who went out to go to the toilet then came straight back in- never wandered or sat out.

They aren’t indoor cats though because they could go out any time they wanted, they just don’t want to!

Mine keep turning up with their mates to be fed. Honestly, they're like a couple of teenagers!

Absolute bollocks.
That's the same as saying you cannot love your child and let them go on a bike, or in a car, or play rugby or on a climbing frame.
Loving a pet means giving it the best life possible, full of richness, even if that means exposing it to some risk. It doesn't mean keeping it alive but giving it a life devoid of normal and desirable experiences.

We have 2 indoor boys with FIV, they would die pretty quickly if outside due to poor immune systems. We have a large, open plan house with someone home most of the time who gives them lots of play and interaction. One of mine is terrified of us even opening doors and windows and has absolutely no interest in the outside. The other probably would if you let him but isn't stressed by not going out! We did notice the first cat was under socialised and a bit lazy and therefore adopted our second and they play together lots and my first cat is now a much healthier, more active and better socialised cat.

Basically we're very committed to their welfare and provide lots of stimulation and closely monitor their health in a way that wouldn't be possible if they went out!

I suspect that you are not happy .

So happy you feel you know cats!

☺️ okay!

The unfortunate UK perspective is that cats are low maintenance pets, put some food down for them and they'll entertain themselves, they're independent, they don't need much. And if they get hit by a car or eat poison, oh well! Too stupid to live, let's just get another one. It's complete nonsense but it's how we're used to "caring" for cats.

If you treat a cat more like we treat dogs you'll find they're perfectly happy being indoors. My cat has enrichment, places to climb, he gets new toys regularly and we play with him daily. He's just a regular moggy. :)

Not feeling attacked, just know cats and know how wrong you are, although meaning well I'm sure😊

Just shows that even though you are a registered feline behaviourist and psychologist. it doesn't stop you talking complete rubbish.

Just to confirm that I do indeed love my cats and they go outside.

Check out the ICC website ☺️

Disagree all you like. I suspect you’re feeling attacked thus feeling defensive. It’s the same as people saying they ‘love animals’ but they eat meat ☺️

Where do you study to be a registered feline behaviourist and psychologist? I want to see if I can go there! How long does it take to qualify?

Disagree with all of this.

That is one of the ridiculous statements I have read today.

I agree with this. You cannot say you love your cat and then in the same breath say you let them outside. The two don’t go hand in hand.

Oh here we go 😂 I don’t think I’ll be taking advice from anyone who takes their information from the Metro.

FYI - I’m a registered feline behaviourist and psychologist. I think I’m far more educated on this topic than you, but it’s sweet you’re so determined to be right!

I like cats and think ideally they should be allowed on the garden, but it's really not great for them to be roaming and killing wildlife. But it's nice that you find it laughable.

News to me that 99p burgers are wildlife.

Living by the 'he does it too' mentality is not good. Personally, I'd be putting a barrier up on the fence if I ever get a cat. Best of both worlds.

It's easy to prevent (reduce) cats killing wildlife🤷🏼‍♀️