The short answer is no, cats aren’t any happier living outdoors.
There are many dangers that outdoor cats face such as cars, dogs, coyotes, parasites, diseases, cruel people, extreme temperatures, etc.
It’s proven that indoor cats live safer and longer lives, although this doesn’t mean that indoor cats are any happier either.
Cats born and raised outdoors don’t know any different, and neither do indoor cats. So both are equally happy and content with their lives!
What’s the Difference in Their Lifespans?
Indoor cats have an average lifespan of 10-20 years.
Outdoor cats only have a lifespan of 2-5 years.
Cats that live outdoors in the daytime and indoors during the night may live longer than a strictly outdoor cat.
Should I Allow My Indoor Cat to Go Outside?
Permitting your cat time outdoors can be beneficial as long as he or she is supervised.
Here are a few ways to keep your cat safe while outdoors:
Train your cat to walk on a leash.
Fence in your yard to allow Kitty to stretch her legs without worrying about her going to far.
Purchase an outdoor cat enclosure (catio) to connect to your house so your cat can safely enjoy the outdoors whenever he or she wants!
If you allow Kitty to go outside, be sure to treat him or her year-round for fleas, lice and ticks. Cats don’t have to come in contact with another animal to get parasites. Fleas and ticks can live on grass, plants, etc.
Microchipping your cat can help nearby vet offices identify your cat and how to contact you if your cat roams too far and can’t find his or her way home.
How Can I Keep My Cat Entertained Indoors?
Offer your cat toys/puzzles, cat trees/towers, and scratching posts.
Providing a hammock or perch by a window can keep your cat entertained for hours as she watches the neighbors and the animals.
Adopting a friend for your cat such as a dog, ferret or another feline can prevent Kitty from ever getting bored again.
Be mindful to set out a few minutes of your day for playtime. 15-20 of play will not only mentally and physically stimulate your cat, but also offer a great way to bond for you to bond with your cat.
How Can I Keep My Indoor Cat Active?
Indoor cats are prone to weight gain due to inactivity. Because of this, it’s very important to keep your cat active and stimulated.
Playing with your cat is a great way for your cat to burn calories. Here are some activites and other things which you can do with/for your cat to keep her active.
Laser pointers are a great toy to keep your cat on her toes!
Provide cat trees
Play Hide N’ Seek
Take your cat for daily walks on a leash
Offer balls and string
Works Cited
“Cats Live Longer, Healthier Lives Indoors,” AnimalFriends,
Sinatra Ayres, Amy, “5 Easy Ways to Help Keep Your Cat Active,” VetStreet, 29 Aug 2016,
Valentini, Kristi, “Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: Should You Let Your Kitty Roam?” DailyPaws, 24 Aug 2020,