Allowing your cat to roam outdoors freely can be fun for her, and can be an easy way out for an otherwise bored cat. However, you need to carefully evaluate your surroundings to make sure it is safe for your cat to be let out. Your cat will have the risks of being hit by vehicles or stolen by strangers or sometimes even attacked by other humans or dogs outdoors. Therefore you have to be very sure that your cat would not be in danger when she is out if you plan to give her a free outdoor access.
Contrary to the belief, we do know that cats can indeed live a happy and healthy life indoors with their families. If you do choose to restrict her outdoor movements, do so in a gradual way.
Do not stop her outings completely rather allow it in a supervised manner. Let her out just before her mealtimes and call her back inside when it is time to eat.This way she will not wander off very far especially when she knows that it is mealtime.You can train her to come back inside with the help of a histle. Whistle when you want her to come back home. Make the sound before every mealtime so that she can start associating with that sound.
If your cat is not spayed, she is more likely to get out looking for mates. Having them sterilised is a very important responsibility. Attach a tag with your contact details to her collar to make it easy for somebody to find you if your cat gets lost.
By reducing her outdoor times, you are taking away her source of entertainment. This means you have to substantiate the same with adequate toys and indoor games. If you do not have one, invest in a scratch post that will keep her engaged. Invest in toys that can simulate hunting and give her a satisfactory play option. Most importantly, spend quality time with her so that she doesn't feel too lonely and bored and does not have the need to go out.
