The Cat Hokey Pokey
The Cat Pokey
Put your beloved cat in, put your beloved cat out, put your beloved cat in and keep it safe and satisfied indoors… okay it doesn’t hit the same as the hokey pokey, but it probably reminds you of the struggle cat lovers go through on the daily: in or out?
Before they were domesticated furry love bombs, our feline friends were wild big cats: we see them on documentaries, lovingly overlaid with a soothing British baritone, bouncing around the desert, hiding in the long grass, basking in the sun. Compared to old carpet, a twine climbing tree and birds on the tv, those big cats are living the best life. We’re huge advocates for honouring the history of our animals, especially through food, so It can be very tempting to open our door for our feline friends to give them the same experience: playful races and sand baths and all of the other special spa-treatment type of things we see on the tv, but unfortunately that’s not always what’s waiting on the other side of that door.
There’s many dangers for our domesticated kitties, including cars, unfriendly cats, dogs and disgruntled neighbours. Despite how clever your kitty may be, it could be easy for them to get lost or trapped somewhere, too. Aside from these potentially deadly dangers, your furbaby can get into a few unsavoury situations: starting fights, killing native birds and lizards and agitating other residents. It’s important to consider how letting your cat reign free in the backyard and beyond impacts their health, your life, and that of those around you including vulnerable native wildlife.
So, is that the final verdict? Should your cats stay inside, or should they be allowed to roam? How long, or how far? There’s been much debate in Australia around it, from the ABC to Courier Mail. The RSPCA has given the verdict themselves on what they believe: keep your cat safe indoors, with space and regular, supervised exploration outside. Not so bad, really. Just like a toddler. Some districts across Queensland (like Brisbane) have requirements for owning a cat, including microchipping, de-sexing, and keeping a cat inside or ‘secured on the property’. Some people are concerned about the restrictions and the impact they may have on cat’s welfare. They are, after all, animals too. Even with supervised exploration, enough food every day and affection and attention from you, wouldn't being cooped up in the house turn us mad, too? What do you think about this issue? If your cat does take a roam, make sure you follow important steps to keep important native animals safe. Our Bella and Boots food packs can take care of the satisfying dinners for you. If you’re worried about health concerns like their gut, heart, dental, coat and skin health, and/or to combat allergies or joint pain, Bella and Boots raw food is an excellent choice for you. You can read more about the benefits of our food packs in our product description or by reaching out online or in-store at Eumundi Meats.