Expert: Becky - 2/21/2007

Question
Hello.  I have two domestic shorthairs that are kept indoors - they have one furnished room which they stay in.  My fiance and I would like to buy an outdoor shed for them which we would convert into a furnished cathouse - that way we can let them go outside a couple of hours a day supervised.  Do you see a problem with leaving them outdoors in a cathouse as long as we keep it furnished with toys and food, and visit/play with them about 1-2 hours a day?


Answer
Anita,
I'm a little confused.  Are you saying you want to take them out for a few hours every day, or leave them out and visit a few hours every day ? I think as long as it has windows, there should be no problem leaving them out there for extended hours.  I don't think they should stay out there all the time though.  Two hours a day is not much time to spend with them. Cats need social interaction.  If you don't have time for them, then it may be best that you find them another home.  Hope everything works out for you.

God Bless,
Becky