Rescue cats going out for first time.

[cherryredretrochick]

How do I do it, they are adult cats, seem very settled here, been here for 2.5 weeks.
I have let them out for 5mins today just before I fed them and I stayed in the garden and they came straight back when I got there food out, how do i progress from that to actually going out?

You have done the right things so far. It definitely helps to let them out shortly before they expect to be fed, so I would suggest gradually increasing the time they are out without you. As they become more attached to you, their desire to come home will increase. Probably best to keep them in at night as well. It's also worth having them microchipped if they aren't already.

we kept our rehomed cat in for about 5 weeks but he had mainly been a house cat so didn't seem to mind! I think I'd continue as you are for a few more weeks, sounds like you're doing a great job.

you'd be better off building them an enclosure, cats are very vulnerable to a lot of dangers. dogs, foxes, cars, snares etc.

I think they'll be fine. They know where the food is.

I took 2 x 4 month old rescue kittens in November, and we let them out at 6 months. I was on pins for the first few days, but they were fine; I have never had any problems with them.

You could try putting butter on their paws, just before letting them out. Cats love butter and will certainly come back for more!