Recent Feedback
I was just in Pet Smart with my cat and the cat rescue lady scolded me because I walk my cat outside. She insists that it is irresponsible and it exposes my cat to viruses that will shorten his life. If he is not engaging with stray cats, why is it not safe?
Optional Information: Type of Animal: domestic short hair Gender: Male Age: 2.5 years Already Tried: He is not sick, just want to be cautious about walking him on a leash outside. So far he loves it.
Hello, I am sorry that you were scolded. I believe that walking your cat outdoors on a leash is absoloutely fine.
He is with you, under your control, not killing wildlife or fighting with other cats or running in front of cars.The exercise, stimulation from the smells and sights not to mention the bonding time with you are all huge positives for him.Cat diseases, for the most part, are spread by close personal contact. It is possible that he could pick up a parasite if he walked where an infected cat had defecated or a respiratory virus if he breathed air that an infected cat sneezed in but both of these scenarios are quite unlikely.
I would recommend keeping him up to date on his vaccines as well as using flea and heartworm prevention as well as tick prevention if they are an issue where you live. But those are likely things that you already do.
Our responsibility as pet owners is not to be careless. But I also believe we need to let our pets have some fun and stimulation. I believe that cats that are let out to roam freely are in danger. Your cat is at an extremely low risk of any danger and the positives greatly outweigh any negatives. Enjoy your walks and feel sorry for the cat rescue lady's pets!
Do you have any further questions for me?
It appears that you have left our chat. Best of luck with your kitty and ejoy your walks.
Experience: 19 years of experience treating dogs, cats, mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, & iguanas
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