#Middlebury #Cat
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My neighbor, when she’s doing yardwork, routinely puts her cat into something that looks like a chicken coop. It has a screen enclosure and a little wooden house. I’m very worried that the cat is too hot sitting in the enclosure and will get injured. Should I tell her to keep her cat inside? – Worried Neighbor in Wichita
DEAR WORRIED: Your neighbor is probably putting the cat inside a cat enclosure – or maybe a repurposed chicken coop. Cat enclosures are getting very popular, especially in the cities and suburbs. These are a good way for an indoor cat to spend some time outdoors without the risk of running away, getting lost or being attacked by another animal. It can reduce exposure to fleas and ticks, too.
If the cat has a shady place to hide from the sun while inside the shelter, and a bowl of fresh water, it is just fine to be in there for short periods (an hour or two). Since your neighbor is outside and within sight of the cat, it’s clear that she is keeping an eye on it.
If you want to have a conversation about it, be polite. “That’s a neat enclosure; what a great way for your cat to get outside for a while!” is perhaps the best icebreaker in this case.
Otherwise, if the cat does not appear distressed and is sitting or lying calm and alert, then there’s nothing to worry about, especially if your neighbor brings the cat inside after finishing the yardwork. If you have serious concerns (the cat is in the enclosure 24/7, looks very distressed or unhealthy), consider striking up a conversation or, if you’re uncomfortable doing that, contacting animal control.
Send your tips, comments and questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.
You must be logged in to post a comment.