Why is my rescued kitten scared of going outside? Is it normal?

Yes, living outdoors would not be good for Luna. She would not be safe, and it would cause her a lot of trauma. It would be best she went to a one cat only household and lived indoors. I hope this helps.

Indoor cats typically have a safer and longer lifespan than thier outdoor counterparts. If she is happy indoors I would not encourage her to go outside. If you are able to build her a secure small "catio" cat porch outside that might be a way she can safely enjoy the outside. But cats that go outdoors are more at risk from trauma from vehicles or other animals and disease, parasites and viruses. I'd be happy that she is content inside.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If the front of the house is more open, louder, has more animal, people and car traffic that could be why. Most back yards are quiet, fenced, tree lined and do not face the road. Most cats are timid and find loud noises very frightening. I wouldn't force the issue and take him out front and risk getting scratched and bitten. Looking out a window is different then being outside. The sounds are muffled and he realizes the protective nature of being indoors. Have a great day!

Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Cats, with a bit of work, can be taught to walk on a leash ( harness ). The best would be never to let your cat outdoors as this increases the chances of run ins with cars, dogs & other cats. But once a cat is comfortable in a home, they very rarely leave, unless something happens. Make sure Luna is spayed, & consider placing a microchip in her. That way, if she does slip off, any veterinarian or shelter can scan her & get her back home to you quickly. Hope this helps. Take care.

Being outside can be pretty overwhelming and scary for an animal who's not used to it! If you keep introducing your kitty to the outdoors, over time it should become more familiar and less scary - but some cats who grew up indoors never learn to enjoy going outside. Try to make it a positive experience by offering some treats or canned food when he's out with you. If you want to keep trying, I recommend putting a cat harness and leash on your kitty, since scared animals can panic and bolt!

How lovely of you to take in this kitten! Personally I believe in keeping cats indoors. They are safer indoors, they aren't at risk of being attacked by other cats and dogs, they can't get attacked by wild animals, and they won't be hit by cars. In addition, cats who live indoors typically live longer than cats who go outside. If you want Scruff to have time outside, I recommend building or buying an outdoor enclosure for her. That way she can enjoy the sunshine outside, but won't wander away and won't have any contact with wild animals and other pets. If you provide enrichment inside (plenty of toys, cat trees to climb, a window seat for her to look outside), then she won't feel cooped up. Good luck, I hope this help!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Kitty Mucher. If she spends time outdoors, then I worry that she sustained an injury. Cat bite wounds are common and could explain her abrupt change in behavior. If she is not acting normal by the time you return home today, then she will need to see her veterinarian. If she does have a wound (and they can be hard to find), she will require treatment. I hope this information helps!