You are responsible for your cat’s health, behavior and well-being.
Grooming your cat regularly help keep them happy and healthy! Brushing their fur help prevent hairballs or other digestive issues that could come of there being too much hair in their digestive system.
Long-hair cats or cats that groom themselves frequently, are more likely to have issues with constipation or even a life threatening block in their system without proper grooming.
It is not advisable to let your cat roam outside free in the city. They may get hit by a car or face other dangers.
In some countries, cats pose a particular danger to native wildlife and so a fenced enclosure is the most appropriate way to allow them to enjoy the outdoors.
Going Exploring
Taking your cat on a walk outside can be fulfilling and exciting for both you and your cat! Just keep in mind the proper safety precautions:
Invest in a safe and comfortable walking harness and leash for your cat. Make sure you can fit two fingers between your cat’s body and the harness to prevent it from being too loose or too tight.
Introduce your cat to the harness and leash slowly so that they can become accustomed to it. Don't take them outside the first day you get the harness, let them wear it around the house and get used to the feel of wearing it without the added factor of being outside with the unknown.
Training your cat to feel comfortable in the harness, let alone trying to walk them in it can be difficult.
Rewarding your cat with treats for putting on the harness and while they are in the harness can help! Associating treats with using the harness will help your cat enjoy wearing it more.
Remember not to force your cat to wear and walk in the harness. If they're forced into using the harness, it will only cause more stress and discomfort and they will hate using it more.
Letting your cat take the lead when walking outside will be better for you and your cat in the long run, as opposed to forcing them to follow your lead. Let your cat explore but use gentle guiding to lead them away from places, things, or other animals that your cat could get into trouble with.
If you take your cat outside, remember to clean up after your cat and respect the comfort and safety of not just your cat but other animals and people as well.
Remember, many dogs get over excited or aggressive when encountering a cat and if unfamiliar with dogs, your cat may panic! Keep your cat safe by picking it up when passing an unknown dog.