How to (responsibly) let your cat outside

Last April, the Washington Post published an article titled, "How to (responsibly) let your cat outside" -- as you can imagine the comments section was in an uproar and very anti-cat. Few people read past the headline. The article itself was actually very balanced and discussed leash-training your cat (as I have easily done) and featured an image from iStock.

The article's author, Colleen Grablick, writes about her cat’s experience and shares research on outside cats. She discusses:

- Letting your cat choose what it wants. All cats have unique personalities and needs, just as we humans do. Your cat should indicate its interest (or not) in outdoor exploration at its own pace,

- Go gradually. Take your time and be patient. Do as much or as little as your cat wants. Don't rush it or push your own agenda on the cat.

- Take precautions such as surpervising them at all times, checking for fleas and ticks, providing water and shade on hot days, etc.

Grablick also talks about the catio, sunroom-like spaces, or other outdoor enclosures to give the cat a safe taste of outdoors.