When Can Kittens Go Outside Uk
Adult cats need at least two weeks to settle in so they can get used to their new surroundings.
When can kittens go outside uk. It s not safe for a kitten to venture outside until at least a week after their initial vaccinations. 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. It s important to remember that your kitten should have free access to his home at all times and should not be shut outside consider installing a microchip cat flap so he can come and go as he pleases. There are many ways your kitten could catch an infection or disease outside so making sure it s properly.
If you re going to use a cat flap have a look at our cat flap tips. What age can kittens go outside. Choose a dry day and a quiet time and accompany your kitten outside allowing them to explore their new environment. On the other hand there are also benefits to letting your kitten outdoors.
Firstly you shouldn t let your kitten out until at least a week after it s finished its first course of vaccinations. You do not want a young female kitten becoming pregnant whilst she is still very small or a male kitten starting to wander off in search of a mate. Once your kitten has spent time with you in the garden and seems confident you can leave them outside for 30 60 minutes. Kittens can become sexually mature at a very young age sometimes as young as four to five months old.
Keep your kitten safe inside until at least a week after finishing the first course of vaccinations at 13 to 14 weeks old depending on the vaccine. Get your cat microchipped before letting them outside so that you can be easily reunited if they go missing. Kittens need to be at least five months old before they go out on their own. 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. As the kitten grows older the time outdoors can be increased until the kitten becomes independent and has learnt his recall down to a tee. When to let your cat outside 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. It allows them to practice their natural instincts to hunt and explore encourages exercise and mental stimulation and can reduce stress.
Cats make wonderful house pets and as long as they have enough stimulation can live long and healthy lives without ever venturing outside. 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. When to let your kitten go outside.