When Can Kittens Go Outside On Their Own

It s not safe for a kitten to venture outside until at least a week after their initial vaccinations.

When can kittens go outside on their own. Before letting your kitten outside for the first time he should be neutered microchipped and should have completed his full course of vaccinations. When to let your kitten go outside keep your kitten safe inside until at least a week after finishing the first course of vaccinations at 13 to 14 weeks old depending on the vaccine. By this age the kitten is already familiar with your home and will be able to track their way back after their adventure. He will also need time to settle at home and bond with his new family.

You may be tempted to let your cat outside as soon as possible but generally it s best to allow at least 2 3 weeks and up to 4 6 weeks after you first take them home. Most kittens are prepared to leave the house and to explore the outside world at six months old. The first time you let your cat out do so before a meal so they will be more likely to return for food when you call. That s when they re around 13 14 weeks old.

This gives them time to mature and also to be neutered. While many cats live healthy happy lives as indoor pets there are also benefits to letting your kitten outdoors. It is also a good idea not to allow very young kittens out in the garden alone until you have had them neutered spayed for a female and castrated for a male. This will give them plenty of time to settle in their new environment.

Allowing your kitten to explore outside for the first time can be daunting so we asked a behaviourist a vet and another cat owner to share the practical ways that they helped their own kittens to stay secure while out and about. This gives your cat time to lay their scent around which will help them navigate back to your home. During this time you can practice a sound recall at feeding time so your kitten comes to you when he hears that sound. You can gradually start introducing your cat to the great outdoors at about six months of age once they have been neutered spayed and had all of their injections.

Four months old is the earliest kittens can be neutered. You should usually wait three to four weeks for your cat to adjust to your home before letting them outside. Choose a dry day and a quiet time and accompany your kitten outside allowing them to explore their new environment.