Cats and Windows: The Sacrifices We Make For Our Cats
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Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and Miki, the kitten who made me a cat person.
Cats, lovely creatures, aren’t they? I don’t know what my life would be like without them. From one cat I have gone to three in a matter of one and a half years. The two new kittens are still way too small to be going out, so Miki is the only one with outdoor access at the moment. Well, that sounds so elegant, outdoor access. In reality, it means I need to have a window open so he can come in and out as he pleases, throughout the day. This was fine all summer, but now, with temperatures near freezing, it’s become more challenging.
Cats Love to Boss Everyone Around
Some days I do feel like Miki’s personal assistant. And to make things worse, I am one of those stereotypical enthusiastic and bubbly assistants, classically being in their first job and following their bosses around like puppies. As soon as Miki is up by the door or window and meowing in a specific way, trying to tell me he needs to go out to the toilet, despite it being cold and late at night, I will jump up and open the window for him. However, with the weather becoming frosty, the window is quickly shut and Miki is followed over GPS.
I don’t like him being outside at night, as there are too many things that could go wrong, so I always lock him in. He does use his litter box, but only in moments of utmost desperation. And he will clearly tell me how unhappy he is with the whole thing.
Cat Flap vs An Opened Window
Two years ago, while renovating my house, I replaced all the doors and windows. Since getting Miki, I looked into cat flap options, but have not yet found the courage to go ahead with it. Maybe I am old-fashioned, thinking I would compromise the current heat insulation after installing it. But with needing to assist Miki multiple times per day in going in and out, or keeping the window open, letting the cold in, it’s started to interest me a bit more. However, there are also various automated solutions that could open and close the window while being controlled remotely, without needing to install an actual flap. All these options and Miki couldn’t care less. He just knows that if he’s locked in and I’m asleep, he will try each of his three litter boxes, to see which one is the most appropriate one. And usually around 3 in the morning.
Miki’s Daily Routine
Since he is a very adventurous young outdoor cat who goes on walks with me and the dogs every day, I am quite familiar with Miki’s toilet routines. He can be quite peculiar in the morning, asking me to let him out first thing but then waiting for me and the dogs, not wanting to miss out. And then within the first 15 minutes, there he is, finding his perfect spot for pooping. Sometimes he is just like a dog, predictable.
Another habit he developed, particularly in the mornings, is to get me to open the window and then just stand there looking even a little confused, taking in the scents and sights. Imagine my impatience when it’s cold outside and Miki is having second thoughts on whether he’s misjudged the outdoor circumstances. Maybe he is just ensuring the coast is clear and it’s safe to come out, but I can only guess.
Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way
It can be a hassle. And freezing. And even a little bit annoying. Just as I write this post, there he is, wanting to go out at 10.30 in the evening. And I succumbed and let him out, watching his movements on the GPS tracker app. Within 15 minutes, the little icon with Miki’s picture is back home, but the window is closed as it’s almost 30℉. I get up, and just as I open the front door, he runs in so eagerly, putting a smile on my face and making it all worthwhile.
- Read her previous article: Kitten Time: Welcome, Minnie!
- Read her next article: How Quickly Do Cats Become Friends? Miki and Minnie
