Kitties Outside for the First Time

So, I'm finally going to have a yard (yay!).

My two cats have never been outside before. They yardis fenced, but it's not very high. I know they could jump it (especially La Terrorista) in a second.

I would love for them to be able to go outside, and I plan on supervising them, bu I still worry,

Neither is good with collars, so I don't think a leash would work.

Anybody know anything about electronic fences? Are they painful or harmful i any way? Expensive?

Any other suggestions?

i'm not sure what i think about electric fences i always suspect they deliver a bigger shock than the manufacturer claims. there is a type of 'cat-proof' fencing that has a curved wire top; if the cat jumps on it, it bends so they can't get a footing and must jump back down again. i have no idea what it costs but people say it works:

http://www.purrfectfence.com/existing_fence.asp

I would lean against letting them outside. For one thing, cats can pick up fleas, ticks and other parasites, and they would be in danger of picking up diseases from strays. If your cats have always been indoors, keep them there.

On the other hand, if you have a screened porch, that would be an EXCELLENT way for them to safely enjoy the outdoors.

you might want to try this -

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3100&rel=1

but I agree - as much as my babies look like they want to get outside I am too afraid that they would get away. If you want them to get fresh air and do not have screens here is another item from that company

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=15736&N=2002+2010

stacey wrote: you might want to try this -

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3100&rel=1

but I agree - as much as my babies look like they want to get outside I am too afraid that they would get away. If you want them to get fresh air and do not have screens here is another item from that company

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=15736&N=2002+2010

Stacey - I just ordered that first item. I'll try it out next week or so and we'll see how it goes.

The first one looks like something for the bubble boy! Bubble kitties!!

And the other looks like a cage. I don't think Tuly would like that so much.