Outdoor access for cats provides behavioral benefits but exposes them to significant welfare risks including road accidents, disease, and conflict with other cats.
The welfare balance for outdoor cats depends on individual circumstances including traffic, disease prevalence, and territory. Many cats tolerate indoor living well with appropriate enrichment. Outdoor access to secure gardens using cat-proof fencing or run systems provides behavioral benefits with reduced risks. The decision should be made based on realistic assessment of local risks rather than assumption that outdoor access is always better.