Siamese cats are wonderful people-loving cats. They are stubborn and demanding and it's difficult to deny them anything. Some Siamese see the world outside and won't take no for answer. They slip out between our legs as we walk in with groceries. They howl at the window. They stand by the door, watching us, waiting for an opportunity.
It's tough not to give in, but by not giving in, your cat will live a longer and better life.
Cars are only one danger to outdoor cats. Other dangers include strangers, and dogs. Other people can steal a cat. Knowingly or unknowingly, a neighbor might leave out a poison. Dogs can frighten a cat and disorient it. Dogs can attack.
In some areas, raccoons, coyotes, cougars and even certain hawks can pose a threat. As our suburbs reach ever farther into the wild areas these creatures called home, they stray into our safe suburban areas. Our outdoor cats are often the first to discover a wild intruder, with disastrous results. Your Siamese is a beautiful cat and was bred to look wonderful. It wasn't bred to fight or to understand how to get away. Their coloring allows them to stand out to predators. Keep them inside where they are safe.
Your Siamese may love the outdoors but it's important to keep your cat confined. Large windows are wonderful. Make sure they have screens. Many companies make outdoor enclosures for cats. These enclosures often have perches that allow cats to climb. They have covered areas for cats to hide if they feel threatened. They are solidly made.
Many Siamese can be trained to walk on a leash. So long as a human is always in attendance, cats are typically safe. It's a rare predator who will try and injure a cat with a human around. Children may still want to pet your cat, so if you have a cat, which is unsure, pick them up and warn the child that they may not be friendly. Many Siamese adore this attention, so allow them some time to bask in the admiration!
There are now strollers out that can be used for cats. These are covered so that the cat is safe inside, while still able to look out at the world. While they can't explore up close, this is a nice option if you like to walk but your cat likes to linger. You will go farther faster with your cat looking outside in a stroller than you will walking them on a leash. Your cat also has more protection if a dog suddenly bursts out of nowhere to try and attack. In fact, the dog may not even know your cat is there.
Siamese love to do what they want to do. Realize that part of being a pet owner is keeping your pet as safe as possible. There are ways to keep your cat indoor only but allow them to experience the outside world as they may long to do.
Bonnie Koenig lives with her three cats. She and her Siamese, Cheysuli, maintain their website My Siamese
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