If your cats are in the mood to explore, but you don’t want to simply let them loose, try these fun ways to safely bring an indoor cat outdoors.

Loki and Izumi were both found outdoors, and it’s possible that they spent their first few weeks there. As much as I want to let them explore, my priority is their safety. Research shows that indoor cats tend to live longer. This is due to several factors, but a lack of natural predators and hazards is the biggest.

Keeping Your Indoor Cat Safe During Outdoor Trips

I’d like to start by saying that I am NOT shaming people with outdoor cats. Cats being outdoors is what nature intended, but some people, like myself, simply want the extra safety measure of keeping them indoors.

#1 – Use A Pet Stroller

We got a super good deal on Amazon for a pet stroller. We wanted to give Misha and Tippy a taste of the outdoors while giving them a ‘safe space’ where they could huddle down. Eventually, we stopped those trips because they didn’t like them, but I’m glad we kept the stroller for Loki and Izumi. Loki adores trips in the stroller! Izumi will get her first trip this spring.

#2 – Teach Your Cat To Walk On A Leash

This method takes time and patience. Cats are not dogs (obviously). They are not accustomed to leashes, but if you’re going to bring an indoor cat outdoors, they’re often necessary. Most cat owners start with a solid harness like the Kitty Holster and graduate to a thinner, less restrictive harness. Eventually, you can attach the leash directly to your cat’s collar.

#3 – Build A Catio

This is the safest method to bring an indoor cat outdoors. It’s basically a giant kennel for cats, typically made with breathable steel mesh or more solid ventilated materials. They can be as big or as little as you want them. This cat solarium from Etsy is the smallest option and can be mounted in an open window (no building required!). Catios are a labor of love, so make sure it’s what you want before you commit to it.

Have you ever brought your indoor cat outdoors to explore? Which one of these methods have you tried? Let us know in the comments section below!

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