Should I keep my Persian indoors?

persianpazzaz

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Hi all, after some advice. I have a beautiful white Persian kitten, she is my absolute world. One thing I can't decide is whether to keep her indoors or let her out when spayed. I'm a believer that cats should be able to go out and explore, however I worry for her. I worry she will get stolen (she is beautiful!) hurt or her coat would get ruined and this would cause her harm.

At the moment, I brush her twice a day and wipe her face. Would this increase if I were to let her out? I'm guessing it would! Has anyone had any experience with a Persian cat and fleas?

I don't want her to be lonely and wonder if letting her roam outside would help. My partner and I work full time and she is at home whilst we work, however gets tonnes of play and cuddles when we are home in the mornings and evenings. She seems happy, she is very affectionate and always comes downstairs stretching when I get home so I assume she sleeps lots!

I suppose what I'm asking is for advice from those with knowledge and/or experience of Persians. Is it cruel to keep her indoors or would it be crueler to let her out? I just want the best for her, she makes me so happy and I want her to be happy too!
 

gardenandcats

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Persian cats are Not outdoor cats... Its not recommended they be outside due to their build.. They are slower and clumsy.... Now if they go out in a fenced enclosed area were they can't be hurt by other animals that's OK... Not only that they are much much more likely to be stolen!!! I have had Persian cats for 27 years I have 2 now and they only go out in there fenced in area during the day.....
 

molly92

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It's in the best interest of every cat to keep them indoors, but especially cats like yours that were bred to be companions. Don't worry about her, she will be very happy! You can play with her lots and give her places to climb and she will stay entertained. Because she's never been outside before, she won't be very upset about it.

What you can do is let her outside in some sort of enclosure or "catio" like @gardenandcats suggested, or you can train her to wear a harness and leash and the two of you can go outside and explore together safely! Be sure to apply a monthly flea treatment, which would also be a good idea even if she doesn't ever go out, just in case.

Outdoor cats are a not a natural part of the ecosystem in most parts of the world, which harms them and species around them. Outdoor cats have an average life expectancy of 5 years because it is so dangerous. Cars, predators, dogs, and other cats can all wound or kill them. Diseases can be caught from other animals, contaminated water, their prey, and other cats. Deadly chemicals like antifreeze can be ingested. Cats have destroyed many native bird populations because they kill so much. And, like you mentioned, anyone can grab a trusting cat outside by herself.
 

cinqchats

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Hi all, after some advice. I have a beautiful white Persian kitten, she is my absolute world. One thing I can't decide is whether to keep her indoors or let her out when spayed. I'm a believer that cats should be able to go out and explore, however I worry for her. I worry she will get stolen (she is beautiful!) hurt or her coat would get ruined and this would cause her harm.

At the moment, I brush her twice a day and wipe her face. Would this increase if I were to let her out? I'm guessing it would! Has anyone had any experience with a Persian cat and fleas?

I suppose what I'm asking is for advice from those with knowledge and/or experience of Persians. Is it cruel to keep her indoors or would it be crueler to let her out? I just want the best for her, she makes me so happy and I want her to be happy too!
If you lived on my side of town, yes, she would be stolen fairly quickly. Or eaten by a coyote or fox. Or hit by a car. 

Yes, you'd have to groom her more if you let her outside. 

Take her out on a leash if you really want her to be able to go outside, and never let her out of your sight. 
 

red top rescue

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If you want her to have fresh air and sunshine, there are many "catio" designs you can create.  Just google "catio photo" to see some of them.  Many years ago when I lived in New York City, I created a "catio" using a large wire dog crate and building a frame/shelf to support it outside my window (circa 1968, no internet then).  He would enjoy the sunshine in spring and have a good time watching the pigeons.  He was just your average tabby cat.  I would never consider letting a white Persian outside or even on the ground. 
 
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