Anthony,

I believe that most of the people that post here are from North America. I know were I live there are cat by-laws, they have to be "under control at all times". Outside that means on a leash or in a cat run. If they are caught loose they are sent to the SPCA, and once there who knows what their fate will be. I dare say that most urban areas in NA have by-laws similar to this.
I also believe that most of the people that post here really and truly love their cats and would be horrified if something happened to them that they could have prevented. To achieve this, most choose to keep their cats safe indoors. Seeing that cats sleep most of the time, I believe that sleeping in a comfy chair, or on a sunny window ledge is much safer than sleeping under a bush somewhere where they can be attacked by predators.
This is my point of view, anyways.

P.S. My cats were rescued off the streets, and 3 out of the 4 run away (back inside) from the back door when it is opened. They like the life they have now. One will occasionally go outside to nibble on some grass. I supervise her.

[This message has been edited by dogncatluvr (edited September 16, 2000).]