Will outdoor cat come back if I let her out?

My oldest cat was an outdoor cat but I won't let her go outside at all because 1) the other cats are strictly indoors cats, raised that way from birth 2) I'm terrified she won't come back. She is so insistent on getting out that I have to lock her up in the bedroom just to go get the mail. I took her "window" away because she yowled constantly about wanting to go out. For some time, she seemed totally obsessed. Sometimes she will pace back and forth in a circle throughout the house, constantly going back to the door. She's learned to stay away from the door but still requires being put up if I go get the mail or otherwise go outside.

I want her to be happy and secure but am I doing the right thing? If I let her out would she come back? Should I walk her on a leash? Or would it make the pacing or obsession worse?

I wouldn't let her outside.  Outdoors are not at all safe for cats today.  There are so many dangers.  And she won't miss it.  You may think you are depriving her but really it can be a matter of life and death just letting her out one time.

She's gotten out several times but I've caught her every time. Now I just pin her up so she has no chance at all to get out and I feel SOOOOOOO bad about it. I wonder if she thinks I'm being mean.
 

She's gotten out several times but I've caught her every time. Now I just pin her up so she has no chance at all to get out and I feel SOOOOOOO bad about it. I wonder if she thinks I'm being mean.
 

There are cat enclosure pens that a lot of people get at Petco or PetSmart.  They are expensive but they allow your cat to experience outside without dangers.  Lots of people like to take theirs out for walks on harnesses.  It can take some getting used to for the cat, but it is possible. 

She doesn't think you are  being mean.  Cats usually get over things quite quickly and move on to something else.  Especially if you offer them yummies!! 

When you are leaving you can shut her up in a room somehow or you can trap her behind a baby gate.  Lots of people have luck with those, too. 

Thanks. I feel better not having caved in and let her out. Since she is still obsessing, I think I'd better not walk her yet, either.

As I type this, I have my kitten trying to step all over my laptop!  LOL
 

Well, the harness can take some getting used to.  Maybe letting her wear it around for awhile a few times before attempting to go out is the best idea.  If you wanted to go the enclosure way, they are expensive but everyone I know that has one says they are well worth it.  A decent sized one can cost about $300 or more.  It's probably cheaper to make your own or have some guy make it for you?  I know someone that made their own in an afternoon after seeing the largest one at Petco... He made his about 3X bigger!!  His cats love it!!  He puts his poms in it, too. 

I know the perfect person who could help me build one!