Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Cat Welfare in the City 2026

Urban cats face unique welfare challenges including road risk, pollution, and limited foraging opportunities, with 2026 bringing improved urban cat welfare guidance.

Key Facts

Road traffic kills an estimated 20% of outdoor cats in urban environments annually
Urban cats have smaller home ranges but higher stress hormone levels than rural cats
Air pollution exposure is significantly higher for outdoor cats in urban environments
Urban heat island effect exacerbates summer heat stress in cats
Catios and enclosed garden spaces provide safe outdoor access in urban environments

Welfare Considerations

Urban cat welfare requires balancing the welfare benefits of outdoor access against the welfare risks of urban hazards. Managed outdoor access through catios provides the best of both.

What You Can Do

Consider building or purchasing a catio for urban outdoor access
Microchip and register cats for reunification if they become lost
Provide indoor enrichment to compensate for limited safe outdoor access