As a cat owner, you know how happy your cat is to be let outdoors to play and explore. As an indoor/outdoor cat, your feline companion will be exposed to some additional risks that exclusively indoors cats aren't.  Here's how to keep your indoor/outdoor cat safe without compromising their sense of freedom and enjoyment of the outdoors.

Have Your Yard Sprayed

Fleas and ticks are prevalent in all regions of the country. Even if you live in a relatively urban area, you may have pests like fleas and ticks living and nesting in your own backyard. These pests cling to your cat as he plays in the grass and rests on the dirt or in the shrubbery. Fleas and ticks not only pose a threat to your family's health; they also make your pet uncomfortable and possibly sick.

Have your yard sprayed with pesticide on a seasonal basis. Your local lawn car company can advise you on what pesticides are needed at what time of year. Be sure to tell them you have a cat that spends time outdoors, so you can make sure the pesticide itself is not hazardous to pets.

Install a Cat Fence

Anyone with an active cat knows that cats love to explore, often well beyond the confines of the backyard. Although this cat behavior is usually harmless, there can be instances where neighbors are annoyed, a local dog poses a threat, or local government restricts unsupervised cat movement in the area.

A cat fence is specially designed to keep your pet in your own backyard. The top of the fence curves in, preventing even strong and adventurous felines from climbing and getting over the cat fence. A cat fence keeps your cat safely in the yard without obstructing your cat's view of the areas outside the fence.

Erect a Cat House

Inclement weather can strike when you least expect it. Worse, your cat may be stuck outside in bad weather while you're away from home. Cats are subject the same kinds of discomfort that we humans dislike. They don't like getting rained or snowed on, and snow and sleet makes fur icy and clumped. Lightning and thunder are harmless to your cat, except for the fact that he may be unduly frightened.

Erect a cat house in the backyard where your cat can go to feel safe and comfortable in bad weather. Consider hanging clear plastic thermal flaps instead of a having an open entryway. The plastic will help to insulate the house without inhibiting your cat's view outside the cat house.

Your pet cat can live a long and healthy life as an indoor/outdoor cat. With these safety provisions, there's no reason not to let your cat out to enjoy the great outdoors.