Coon Kittens - Indoors Or Outdoors?

Popular in the 1800's, Maine Coon cats were known as great hunters. The breed evolved with characteristics to adapt to harsh winters. Even Coon kittens have a thick, bushy tail, which is at least as long as its body; it can create extra warmth by wrapping its tail along its body and around its neck. The cats have large paws, which can be compared to snowshoes. Its coat has two layers and does not sink into snow. With its appropriate characteristics, the cat could live outside. However, most breeders and Maine Coon Cat associations recommend the cats be raised as indoor cats.

It may seem natural or less trouble to raise an outdoor cat, but outdoor coon kittens have a hard and usually shorter life than their indoor cousins. Living outside, cats must deal with a variety of obstacles and problems, such as exposure to harsh climates, snake bites, car accidents, disease from other animals, and people who harm outdoor cats. The possibility of rabies should be taken seriously, as it threatens the cat's health and can be transmitted to owners.

If you insist on raising your cat outdoors, you should take several precautions. To be a responsible pet owner, you should make sure they are spayed or neutered. Besides the pet overpopulation, unaltered pets tend to fight with other animals. They are more likely to be injured due to fights with other cats during mating season. They could also become lost when traveling great distances to find a mate.

If your kitten is outdoors, it needs a stable supple of fresh water and unfrozen food. Try to find a warm and dry environment. Check your garage for dangerous substances like antifreeze. Kittens may become thirsty and drink the poisonous liquid. Since kittens look for warm places, they could be hiding under or near your car's engine, a dangerous hiding place.

In the summer, cats need to be monitored for skin conditions (which could develop into cancer). Watch your kitten or cat for signs of heat stroke or exhaustion. The outdoor environment may seem favorable for a cat to play, but you shouldn't leave your kitten or cat in a closed car. They may develop heat stroke and could die.

If you would like your Maine Coon cat to go outside, you can always leash train them at a young age. Coon kittens will accept a leash and will enjoy "hunting" and taking walks. A leash will also give them supervision and protection from other animals, accidents, or getting lost.

Think about your cat's health and safety, and then decide on whether it should be an outdoor or inside cat. One advantage is that indoor kittens are healthier and live longer. You can provide better protection by kitten-proofing the house, than allowing the cat to run wild, getting lost, and becoming pregnant or injured.

Once you realize the many dangers of outdoor living, you'll probably agree that Coon kittens are better if raised as an indoor cat. If your heart is set on them being outside, make sure you provide as much protection as possible.

Sarah is a committed breed owner and enthusiast. She has created 'MaineCoonCompanion.net', a website dedicated to Maine Coon lovers and their pets. Whether you're looking to arrange a Maine Coon sale or already 'owned' by beautiful Coon kittens there are tons of useful tips and articles available.