Introducing a Cat to the Great Outdoors

Hi,

Where we are moving, Picasso is going to have access to the outdoors. How do I introduce this to her? She's been outside a few times in her life - not by my choice though! She darts for the door every time it's open! She will be living with three indoor/outdoor cats (Picasso and her new friends are all fixed) who are used to coming and going as they please. I would like to see her do this too, because I believe it may calm her down. It's a quiet neighbourhood with a couple of indoor/outdoor cats.

Should I let her out at first only while I am there? Should I put a collar on her? Will she be able to find her way home? Previously when she's escaped she's been either on a farm or a large property and didn't go far (just circled the house and climbed a tree). I know she'll have a blast out there because there are so many things to chase!

Thanks,

Picasso

Do you have a fenced yard? I know you can't stop a kitty from climbing the fence, but atleast you could watch her for a bit while she surveys the new surroundings.

Perhaps bringing her out on a long lead and harness for the first couple times may acclimate her to her new surroundings.

Wait a few weeks after the move so she can get re-adjusted to where "home" is. Get her used to the other kitties so they don't drive her off before you let her go outside.

Microchip her, & get her a collar with tags. For her safety & your sanity should she wander off.

At first, watch her carefully outdoors. She may not be outdoor savvy & may simply never be safe outdoors. Go slow, make sure she is comfortable defending herself & you are comfortable that she can take care of herself outdoors. Make sure she's got the ID on her, & that she knows where home is to come back to.

She already has a micro chip (thanks to the Humane Society where I got her!!). I think I'll keep her in for a bit to get used to the new place and because it can get pretty cold (-20C) this time of year.

Are there break-away collars incase she gets caught in something? She is very curious and will jump around all over the place lol

And no, there is no fence.

There are tons of break-away collars of all types. You can find them in most any store here....