The decision to keep cats indoors or allow outdoor access involves genuine welfare tradeoffs requiring individual assessment.
The indoor-outdoor cat debate involves genuine welfare tradeoffs that require individual assessment rather than universal prescription. Cats prevented from all outdoor access without adequate enrichment may develop obesity, boredom-related behavioral problems, and chronic stress. Cats with outdoor access face real mortality risks and cause significant wildlife harm. The welfare of individual cats must be weighed alongside the wildlife welfare impacts of outdoor roaming. Well-designed indoor environments with catios, enrichment, and interactive play can provide the stimulation outdoor access offers while protecting both the cat and wildlife.