Introducing a house cat to the outside world...

[Mr MXT]

We've had Barry from a kitten since Dec 14, living in a first floor London flat, he's been a house cat. He likes to have an explore though, and usually makes a run for it out of the front door to have a wander round the communal area outside.

He escaped out of the window during the very hot weather and I found him terrfied hidden under the hedge that would have cushioned his fall. Lesson learnt there, but I digress.

We are now moving to the wild north and will have a large house that is much bigger than what he's used to now, its also very rural so Im a bit concerned how he'll get on with the local wildlife.

So, how best to introduce him to his new home and eventually (if he fancies it) the outside world, foxes, chickens and the neighbouring farmer...?

[DKL]

At 6 months old he'll love being outside.
Just do it slowly, keep him a little hungry and make sure he has clear access back in. They rarely do much more than carefully hunt around 5m from the door to begin with.
I suggest a loc8tor or similar for peace of mind too.

[Negative Creep]

If he's been neutered and knows where a steady food supply is he won't go that far. Slowly move his food and litter tray nearer the door, and don't feed him the morning you allow him to go out. After a while he'll probably be content with a quick patrol of his territory to make sure everything is in order, and a bit of sunbathing.

[edc]

My cats were both house cats up until 6-12 months. I took them out on a lead around the front and back gardens and a little down the road. Did that a few times over a couple of weeks. After that let them play but watch them in the back garden. They hasn't quite figured out running up the fence yet so after a few minutes you could pick them up and bring them in. Then after that let them out on their own on a weekend morning without feeding them. When you rattle their food out the window they soon come back

[The Moose]

We moved Jake's litter tray outside at about 8 months old (to a dry place). We showed him how the cat flap worked.

2+ years later, he still can't get enough of the outside. Bloody loves it! Also loves chilling in bed with us too