A new study published in the journal Applied Animal Behaviour Science reveals that pet cats with outdoor access tend to have better levels of welfare. This finding is particularly relevant for cat owners who keep more than one cat at home, as access to additional space can help reduce the pressure of living in a group.
Peter Sandoe, a researcher and senior author of the study, explained that cats are naturally solitary animals. Therefore, sharing territory with other cats is often a source of stress that triggers various health and behavioral problems, such as urine marking or bladder issues, especially in households with three or more cats.
The research results show that a safe outdoor space allows cats to maintain distance and avoid direct conflict with other cats. This significantly helps reduce stress caused by overcrowding inside the home. Nevertheless, experts emphasize that outdoor access does not necessarily mean letting cats roam freely unsupervised.
Using areas such as enclosed patios or securely fenced yards is considered an ideal solution. This approach provides enough room for cats to explore the environment without facing real risks such as traffic accidents, predator attacks, or fights with strange cats that could endanger their safety.
In addition to environmental factors, the study also highlights the importance of considering a cat's individual personality. Active and curious cats generally adapt more easily to multi-cat homes. Meanwhile, for fearful or easily nervous cats, providing a quiet environment and space to be alone is the main key to maintaining their quality of life.
