Should I get a cat if my neighbor has outdoor cats that wander into our garden?

Question

I really want to get a cat, but I am worried becuase my neighbors have cats that walk around in our garden (and fight sometimes with other cats in the area). I don't want the cat to stay in the house the entire time, either, for several reasons.

Answer 1

If you already know that all these other cats are out there, why in the world would you want a cat that you are NOT going to keep as an INDOOR ONLY cat? Quite frankly, this is senseless! You'd only be adding to the problem by allowing your cat to go outdoors also.

If you truly want a cat (this cannot be just a fleeting-fancy--this is a long-term responsibility), then visit your local animal shelter and you will find the "purr-fect" kitty for you who has already been vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and by all means keep your cat indoors at all times. It is well-documented that an INDOOR-only cat lives about twice as long as one who is alowed outside. There is NOTHING "out there" for a cat to get into except trouble, diseases, fights, and encounters with dogs and cars. I would highly suggest that you do some research on the raising of, living with, and all aspects of the cat-world. These are most fascinating and entertaining companions, but you must have the "know-how" to properly care for them. Best of luck to you in your decision.

Answer 2

Any cat can be an indoor cat 100% of the time and be just fine with it. Being outdoors exposes them to bites, fights, disease, fleas, worms, and being hit by cars or attacked by dogs or kids.

Keep yours indoors. That would solve any problem of the neighbor's cats (who are on 'their' territory after all, they don't recognize property borders).

Answer 3

I think you should get a cat, but politely ask your neighbor to not let their cats walk all in your garden.

Answer 4

If you want a cat but want it to be indoor and outdoor then you should get a cat but put up a fence in the area you want it to be in.

Answer 5

You should get a cat and then get it sterilized. No use mixing the cat with other wild feral cats - it may get hurt or bring home lots of kittens that you will find difficult to deal with!