Allowing cats outdoors exposes them to numerous health and safety risks that can seriously impact their wellbeing and shorten their lifespan. Below are some of the most common concerns:

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): A contagious viral infection that weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to other diseases and certain cancers. It is spread primarily through saliva, blood, or close contact with infected cats.
   
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Often transmitted through bite wounds, this virus suppresses the immune system and leaves cats vulnerable to chronic infections and illness.
   
• Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious and often fatal virus causes vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and severe immune system suppression.
   
• Feline Calicivirus (FCV): A common viral infection that affects the respiratory system, mouth, and eyes, often causing nasal discharge, mouth ulcers, and chronic respiratory symptoms.
   
• Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIP): A fatal disease caused by certain strains of feline coronavirus that can lead to fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest, fever, and progressive illness.
   
• Feline Respiratory Tract Infections: Commonly caused by herpesvirus or calicivirus, these infections lead to sneezing, congestion, eye discharge, and loss of appetite.
   
• Bordetella bronchiseptica: A bacterial infection similar to kennel cough in dogs. It spreads through the air and can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge, especially in multi-cat environments.
   
• Bartonella henselae: The bacteria responsible for “cat scratch disease,” which can be transmitted to humans through scratches or bites. Outdoor cats are more likely to contract and carry this infection due to exposure to fleas and other animals.
   
• Parasitic Infections: Outdoor cats are at high risk for fleas, ticks, ear mites, and intestinal worms—all of which can cause discomfort and transmit other diseases.
   
• Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that cats can contract from hunting rodents or birds, or from contaminated soil. It can also pose risks to pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
   
• Predators and Wildlife: Outdoor cats are vulnerable to attacks from dogs, coyotes, owls, and other wildlife that see them as prey.
   
• Cars and Environmental Dangers: One of the leading causes of injury and death in outdoor cats. Vehicles, extreme weather, and exposure to toxins such as antifreeze pose constant threats.
   

For all of these reasons, our kittens are raised exclusively indoors and are intended to remain indoor companions for life. Keeping your cat inside greatly reduces these risks and ensures they enjoy a safe, healthy, and happy life with their family.