I think this thread originally started with Tonya telling us about her son's allergies and her pets and what to do, for some reason it ended up in the outdoor/indoor debate again.

Twisterdog, I have to say you would find it hard living in New Zealand where all cats are allowed to roam free, and to be honest most of the population do not seem to mind, infact they enjoy other people's cats, but then New Zealanders are very laid back , easy going people in general.

Actually the cats do serve a purpose as well, they help keep vermin at bay, and do the community a service.

Most people do not object to cats doing their poops in their gardens either, good fertiliser, however I am sure there are a few who certainly do.

New Zealand has a lot less predators and diseases that are harmful to the cat for one thing, but yes there are always some risks.

New Zealand is a very cat loving society, and therefore the tolerance is high i suppose.

I have said this all before, but as the subject just keeps coming up, I feel it necessary to put these points forward.

Payitforward and I are both responsible owners and our cats live similar if not identical lives.

It is a personal choice, which suits your circumstances and no-one should be condemed either way, for keeping your cats indoors or outdoors, or both.

I have the utmost respect for anyone who keeps their cats permanently indoors, they obviously do so because that is what is best for for their pet, but others should not be judged for choosing to have an indoor/outdoor pet either.