Exploring the great outdoors for the first time is an exciting experience for both your kitten and you. With everything from people walking to barking dogs and cars driving by, there's a lot to keep track of. It also means it's important for your cat to know they have a safe home to return to if they get scared. We explain what's important to think about When can the kitten be released outside? and what you have to think about the first time!
How old does the kitten have to be before it can be released?
When your little kitten first arrives at your home, they are usually around 3 months old. At first, they will probably have more than enough time to get to know their new home indoors. However, as they become more comfortable within the four walls of their home, their curiosity will often start to kick in. Kittens love to explore, and they may find that the door you always come home through is starting to get exciting.
Make sure the kitten doesn't wear out too early
During this period, it is especially important to be vigilant and ensure that windows and doors are securely closed. The little creatures can quickly sneak through the smallest openings, and it can be difficult for them to find their way back home. Kittens do not fully develop their sense of place until they are close to a year old (for some breeds it takes even longer), so it is recommended to keep them indoors for a while longer.
Introduce the outdoors at the right time
When your cat is approaching 4-5 months old , you can start introducing them to the outdoors by taking them for walks on a leash. If they get used to walking with a harness early on, this will usually be an easy task.
Preparation before your kitten goes outside for the first time
Before you let your kitten out for the first time, it's important to make sure you've made the necessary preparations. This includes:
Vaccination and marking
Make sure your kitten has received all necessary vaccinations before it is exposed to the outdoor environment. It is also important to ID-tag your kitten before you take it outside. You can do this during the first visit to the vet, so that the identification is in place from the start. At our clinic in Larvik you can easilybook an appointment for ID tagging and vaccination of your cat.
Practice being outside with a harness.
A good start to accustom your cat to outdoor life is to use a harness and leash. It is important to introduce your cat to this equipment as early as possible. Be careful to choose a cat harness that fits well, as the agile kitty can easily wriggle out of the harness if it is not tight enough.
There are various tricks to get your cat used to the harness. For example, you can place the harness on the floor so that the cat can explore and sniff it. Start training by letting your cat get used to wearing the harness indoors, but don't be surprised if it reacts by crawling along the floor or acting strangely the first few times you try to put the harness on.
Once your kitten has become accustomed to the harness, you can start with short walks in the garden or nearby area. Let your kitty decide the route and give them time to explore the area at their own pace. This will help them become more familiar with their surroundings and know how to find their way back home when they eventually start exploring independently.
When it's time to let the kitten out
The first time you let your kitten out on an adventure, we recommend that you are at home and have at least one door open. It may also be smart to have practiced a sound that you know your cat responds to.
Provide a warm place with shelter
Basically, all cats should have the opportunity to get into the house or find a comfortable place to rest if you are not home and they want to come in. It may be a good idea to install a cat flap. Alternatively, you can arrange a hiding place near your home that is both dry and warm.
Remember to keep an eye on the kittens after they have been released.
Even after your kitten has become accustomed to the outdoors, it's important to keep an eye on it as best you can. For outdoor cats, it's also a good idea to have routine health checks. Spend time together when your cat is indoors and "inspect" it a bit when you're cuddling, so you can spot any injuries or wounds. Also, pay attention to your kitten's behavior and general mood to make sure it's comfortable in its new territory.
