Not only do they keep your cats safe from predators -like coyotes -they keep many small creatures alive who could easily become kitty hors d’oeuvres.
While chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits are often victims, it’s the wild bird population that is especially hurt by free roaming cats.
I always said it was a great cosmic joke. 
Over the years the kitties have enjoyed many happy hours in their outside playground. However, I often wonder if I have had the better part of the bargain, for watching them playing outside…safely…brings me great joy.
The Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon and the Audubon Society of Portland have partnered on an awareness campaign to encourage people to keep their cats inside homes or enclosures. Oregon Public Broadcasting aired an excellent program on this subject. You can watch that video here:
