Do you know what happens when they roam?
Once your cat is out of sight, there’s no way of knowing where they go, what they encounter or what might happen along the way.
They don’t have to wander far to face dangers that could seriously impact their health and wellbeing.
When your cat roams, the risks can include:
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Being hit by a car
Even quiet suburban streets can be dangerous. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen.
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Exposure to bird flu
Contact with infected birds can expose cats to avian influenza, which can cause severe illness and even death.
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Injuries and accidents
From falls and getting trapped to encounters with dogs and other hazards, danger can be closer than you think.
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Getting lost or never returning home
Cats can become disoriented, trapped or frightened, leaving them unable to find their way home.
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Harming native wildlife
Even well-fed cats have natural hunting instincts. Roaming cats can injure or kill native birds, reptiles and small mammals.
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Disease and sickness
Roaming can increase the chance of exposure to infectious diseases, parasites and other health threats.
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Fights with other cats
Territorial disputes can lead to painful injuries, infected wounds and the spread of disease.
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Unplanned litters
Roaming cats that aren't desexed can contribute to unwanted litters, adding to the number of stray cats and kittens needing care.
Cats who regularly roam can face:
300%
higher risk of death
400%
more vet visits and costs
10 years
less life expectancy
Visit our Roam to Home Guide
Ready to start the transition?
Practical tips to help turn your roamer into a happy homebody - step by step.
Want to know more?
Check out our Behaviour Blogs
Got a cat who cries at the door, ignores their toys or acts like the transition to home life is a personal insult? Our Behaviour Blogs are packed with expert how-to guides, myth-busting advice and practical tips for common cat challenges - all written by our Behaviour Team who really understand why cats do what they do.
