While felines have traditionally fallen into one of two CATegories — secure at home or free range — a new campaign and website by the RSPCA highlights that kitties are safest and happiest at home.
The RSPCA has launched a new Safe and Happy Cats website (SafeAndHappyCats.com.au), following on from producing a successful guide and providing an online destination full of information on the benefits of keeping your cat safely contained to your property in order to protect them from the dangers of roaming.
According to Dr Sarah Zito, Senior Scientific Officer at RSPCA Australia, “There are many significant benefits to keeping your cat safe and secure at home, not least of which is the benefit to local wildlife.
"By keeping your cats home, you’re protecting them from the dangers of cars, other cats, toxins, dogs and getting lost. And you also get to spend more time with them and become even closer. There is also the added benefit of helping to protect your local wildlife.” she shared.
There’s an outdated myth that cats need to roam, but in fact, owners can provide their companions with everything they need at home; all it takes is a little bit of planning, practice and patience.
SafeAndHappyCats.com.au breaks down your fur friend’s five basic needs — resting and hiding places, food, water, toileting areas, and places to scratch — and offers ideas on how to transform your home into a puss playground, without breaking the bank.
“I have four very content cats who are safely kept at home in the house and in their contained garden; they get the best of both indoor and outdoor worlds,” said Dr Zito.
“I get to spend heaps of quality time with them, and also have the peace of mind knowing that they are safe.”
“Having had cats who were free to roam as a child, and suffering their loss on the roads, then seeing so many of the bad things that can happen to roaming cats during my career as a vet and researcher, I feel very content with my decision to keep my cats safe and happy at home. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she said.
Check out SafeAndHappyCats.com.au for videos, animations and articles on the risks of roaming and perks of containment, as well as info on enrichment games and toys, cat-proofing your balcony or yard, and more.
