My first post

hello feline lovers,

I am a cat lover who has had cats for the past 20 years or so. I usually have two at a time, so that when I'm not around they have company. Last fall my 15 year old feline friend Bootsy passed away from cancer. I've been thinking about getting another kitty to keep Maceo, my 10 year old cat, company. I'm moving to a new place soon and figure that might be a good time to get another one, as it will be new for both of them and Maceo will not feel so much that his territory is being encroached upon. Does this make sense?

Not sure what else to say. All the cats I have ever "owned" have been outside cats. I can't bring myself to deny them the freedom, fresh air, grass, birds, etc.

Anyone interested in seeing Maceo (and Bootsy) can visit my Multiply blog here: http://baopu.multiply.com/photos/alb...Feline_Friends

I'll be happy to answer any questions and welcome any advice regarding The Cat Site.

Originally Posted by Baopu

Not sure what else to say. All the cats I have ever "owned" have been outside cats. I can't bring myself to deny them the freedom, fresh air, grass, birds, etc.

Click to expand...

Maceo is beautiful, and yes, it does make sense to get another one... follow your heart!
Now, about the comment above: By keeping your cats inside you are not denying their freedom. You are, instead, providing the love and protection they need to have long and happy lives... It is a dangerous world out there - outside cats live an average of 3-4 years, while inside cats live an average of 15+ years. Outside they are subject to diseases, cars, weather, mean people... There are sooooo many things that could happen to them out there....
Put it this way: If your teenager wants to go party at night, and experience all the things they think they should experience while they are young, would you just let them? No, you would protect them, as you know better the dangers of the outside world... Teenagers have a voice and cell phones - cats can to protect themselves, or call for help... Please now that you are moving, think about giving him the benefit of a safe home to live... There are many horror stories around - you will read quite a few if you stick around this forum for a while!
Good luck with your baby, and I am so sorry you lost your other one...

Hi there

we're so happy to get the chance to welcome you and your furfamily to TCS. I'm sure you'll enjoy your stay with us - we're one great big family and you'll find loads of friends here. If I can help at all while you're finding your way around TCS just click on my username and send me a Personal Message - I'll do what I can to answer your questions

Welcome to TCS!

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone

Xocats, I'll follow your advice and post my question in the Behavior subforum.

Carolinalima, thanks for the welcome and condolences about Bootsy. I'm afraid I don't agree with much in your reply other than "follow your heart." I don't find your analogy very good. I doubt you would confine your teenager to the house for his or her lifetime. All my cats have been outdoor cats and all have lived well over 4 years. But here is not the place to debate this. All I will say is, imo, 4 years of life with access to the natural world is worth at least 10 years confined to the house.

<-- cute!

Hi, and welcome to TCS!

Welcome to TCS!

I've got 2 indoor/outdoor cats!

Thanks for the welcome Wellington Cats and bnwalker2

Welcome and hello!

So sorry for your loss, and I hope you do get another furry friend. Mine are both indoor, but I live in a very busy place.

Thanks Meowers,

yes, you can't let them out if you live near a busy street. If that picture is of your cat, he/she is quite good looking (imo) I like cats that look like wild cats.

I'm so sorry about Bootsy . Maceo is a very beautiful cat.

Welcome to TCS!

Hi!

Welcome to TCS!
Gloria

Hola y bienvenido a TCS, ...Catulina

y Milky

te saludan!!!........

(Translate: Hi and Welcome to TCS, Catulina and Milky say hello to you!!!... )

See you on the forums!

Welcome to TCS

Rob & Sport