If you’re a cat owner, chances are you have strong reasons for keeping your kitty inside or letting him roam. Some feline fans insist that a cat’s instincts are only satisfied outdoors by climbing trees, chasing bugs and napping in the sun. Other perks are the worldwide litter box and freedom to scratch and mark territory at will.

But the numbers tell us that indoor cats live about 10 years longer than their outdoor counterparts … and there are plenty of reasons why. Outdoor cats are at risk of animal attacks, accidents, and exposure to toxins, infections and parasites. Pet theft or abuse pose additional threats. What’s more, roaming cats kill up to 100 million wild birds and more than 1 billion small mammals in the U.S. each year.

So can we keep cats happy inside? Stay tuned to an upcoming Animal Airwaves for tips …