How do I get used to this?

[ndo4000]

So Freddie has now been with us for 6 weeks and we have started letting him into the garden. He is definitely an outdoor cat and loves being out. But I am terrified when he disappears out of sight and find myself going to fetch him from neighbours gardens.

I reeeeeally want to be relaxed about him going off for a wander but am scared he will get stuck somewhere (he's a crap climber) or get lost.....

Please can someone tell me this is normal and I'll get used to it!???!!!!

(Picture for cat tax!)

I'd second the treat on return home. I call my cats in every evening and then they get a treat. They are now so used to coning in every night that they often are just waiting at the door for me to open it.
I haven't got a tracker as mine are too stupid and lazy to go further than next door but they do have collars and a tag confirming they are chipped and requesting no feeding.
My understanding of Persians is that they atr a bit daft and shouldn't be let out to roam so I'd absolutely second cat proofing where you can. My old cat was more adventurous but did get stuck necessitating me climbing ladders in random places to get him down.

My Persians are not bothered at all if they go out or not. You might find, that after he's explored a few times. He's not that bothered.

@Toddlerteaplease I wish. Today he was out of sight for an hour and my other half found him about 9 doors down sitting on the pavement. Apparently he ran and jumped into my OH's arms! I am genuinely unsure whether he can find his way home.

Am becoming really worried that we will either have to cat proof the garden (no means feat as it's pretty big) or keep him inside, which he will hate..... 😞