We recently moved into a house with a lovely back garden which backs on to a field frequented by dog walkers. Most dogs are off leash. We previously lived in a flat and our two cats have been (up until now) indoors only and very happy. They're 1yr old and 2yr old for context.
We have a small run for them so they have limited access to outdoors but recently, when I've been hanging washing out etc I've let them have a play around the garden under supervision. Probably a big mistake because now, the 2yo especially doesn't want to be in the run, but outside in the garden instead - and exploring beyond, i.e. in the field :(
I'm not sure what to do. It's not sustainable to always strictly supervise them in the garden - they're under the fence into the field quickly and up our tree etc. Although we're willing to stick with it...
This is probably a ridiculous question but how likely is it that they will be attacked by dogs if I let them have free roam? I'm really worried about it because I'd be devastated if we lost one, or if one was hurt :( Are they at a disadvantage because they've been indoor up until now i.e. so lack street smarts?
Feel like I've opened a pandora's box by letting them taste freedom.
For info, our garden isn't easy to cat proof - it's big, and has various trees around the border... Also, they're neutered, vaccinated, chipped, and have safety collars and id tags.
Any advice would be appreciated...