When Can I Let My Kitten Outside Uk

Once your kitten is big enough to defend themselves from small predators and birds it is safe to let them roam free outside without supervision.

When can i let my kitten outside uk. It s not safe for a kitten to venture outside until at least a week after their initial vaccinations. Because of potential infection with diseases such as enteritis or cat flu your kitten should not be allowed outside until at least a week after it has finished its first course of vaccinations at about 13 14 weeks old depending on the vaccine. Adult cats need at least two weeks to settle in so they can get used to their new surroundings. You may be tempted to let your cat outside as soon as possible but generally it s best to allow at least 2 3 weeks and up to 4 6 weeks after you first take them home.

You can start to slowly introduce your kitten to the outside once his recall is in place for short supervised sessions always keeping your kitten in sight. Allowing your kitten to explore outside for the first time can be daunting so we asked a behaviourist a vet and another cat owner to share the practical ways that they helped their own kittens to stay secure while out and about. Mine have all tended to spend their 1st few days exploring in the safety of the garden and then when they gain a little confidence start to go further afeild. It s best to let him out just before mealtime so you can use your recall to call your kitten indoors and reward with tasty food or playtime.

If you re going to use a cat flap have a look at our cat flap tips. As an experienced cat lover i make sure my kittens have been spayed neutered and then let them out at 6 months or when their stitches have healed if this is later. You could then let it explore outside if it is supervised. Once your kitten has spent time with you in the garden and seems confident you can leave them outside for 30 60 minutes.

Most cats live for the outdoors. Kittens need to be at least five months old before they go out on their own. Get your cat microchipped before letting them outside so that you can be easily reunited if they go missing. It s unlikely you ll take ownership of your cat much before then anyway since a kitten should be with its mother until it s at least eight weeks old ideally 12 13 weeks.

If you have a new cat or have moved to a new home it is important not to let your cat out until they have adjusted to their new environment. You might want to supervise your kitten the first few times you take them outside for peace of mind. While many cats live healthy happy lives as indoor pets there are also benefits to letting your kitten outdoors. That s when they re around 13 14 weeks old.

This gives them a chance to spread their scent and find their own way home and usually takes three to four weeks.