Should you keep you cat indoors or let her roam in nature? Pet owners worry about diminishing their cat's quality of life by keeping her from the great outdoors. Fresh air and trees would seem to be a cat's natural habitat But your best bet for prolonging your cat's life and health is to keep her indoors. By providing her with a few essentials, you can keep her happy and healthy for years to come.

Outdoor cats are susceptible to a variety of diseases, including feline leukemia, rabies, FIV and peritonitis. Even inoculated cats are not 100% protected from some of these conditions, many of which are contracted through contact with other cats. In addition, abscesses can result from fights with other cats. Not only will your cat suffer from these illnesses, the vet bills can be staggering.

Even the most road-savvy cat is in danger of being hit by a car. Predators can kill or injure outdoor pets. And millions of cats are lost every year and can't find their way home, ending their lives in shelters. The dangers of outdoor life outweigh the pleasure your cat may find there.

So how do you keep your indoor cat happy and entertained?

Make sure she has a perch in a sunny spot where she can view the outside world. The back of a couch, a carpeted cat perch or an accessible bookshelf are all good choices. Cats love to bask in the sunshine, and can spend hours watching the world from a safe nook.

Play with her. Playing with your cat can fulfill her need to stalk and give her plenty of exercise. Provide her with toys so that she can entertain herself when you are not available. Giving her a scratching post will allow her to indulge her love of stretching and scratching, and also give her a place to climb

Plant a pot of cat grass, cat mint or catnip. Your cat will rub against it, chew it and bat at it. Dry catnip sprinkled on a scratching post or cat tree will provide hours of entertainment for both you and your cat!

You might consider getting your cat a feline companion. If she is friendly with other cats, she may love having another to play with and curl up with for naps. While cats are very independent, often two or more will form strong bonds and keep each other company while the humans are out.

Provide a clean, accessible litter box with plenty of sand. Your cat will love loves to dig with her paws. In addition, your neighbors will be thrilled that your cat is no longer soiling their flower beds!

Cats who are kept indoors have life spans of up to four times longer than those who go outside regularly. They are safe from disease, predators and the stress of unpredictable situations. Your inside cat will provide you with companionship and love, and the satisfaction of knowing that you are providing her with a healthy, happy life.