VENTURING OUTSIDE
QToto has always been an indoor cat (he’s eight) but recently has started trying to get outside when I open the door. We live in the countryside with no busy roads nearby. How can I safely introduce him to the outdoors?
Teresa London
CELIA SAYS:
AIt’s difficult not to be anxious when you first let a cat or kitten into the outside world.The best way to do this — if you haven’t trained him to come when called — is to spend a few days training him with treats to do this. Use a special word like 'Come' or if you want to use his name, use it with a special intonation which will allow you to call him long distance.You should accompany him on his first outside explorations and these should occur at a time before one of his regular feeding times. He will then be motivated to come home for his meal. Older cats can learn to use a cat flap so when you feel he is ready you can install one.