Our cats are indoors only. We have outside bird feeders and bird baths to stimulate their hunting instinct. The scampering lizards, flying moths and frogs that stick to the glass doors at night also keep our cats happily “chattering”. And there are cat toys everywhere.
For those that let their cats outside there are hazards. Just a few: lethal plants they might eat, pesticides or rat poison applied by neighbors, fights with other cats (during which certain diseases can be transmitted) resulting in injuries, ticks, fleas, wildlife including cat-eating coyotes and mountain lions, vehicles, dogs and evil people.
If you have a secure patio, that they cannot fall or jump from, that might be a safer option.
There are more permanent structures such as a type of bay window box you install in a regular window for your cat to sit in and safely sunbathe while watching the outdoors. Another company came up with a variety of outdoor enclosures that attach to your home allowing your cat access through a cat flap or other device.
Other options that keep your cat in one location include enclosed kitty playgrounds
, curved tunnels, straight tunnels, instant set up tunnels, “cabanas“, and even a cage-like playpen for kittens.
If you want to take your cat for a walk you can use one of many cat-safe strollers. Or with time and patience, and a willing cat 
you can teach Kitty to walk on a harness and leash. This article gives step-by-step instructions. We prefer the nylon figure 8 or H harnesses, as they are easier to configure to a cat’s girth. They are made in several colors to coordinate with your cat’s fur. There are even harness/leash sets with reflective strips woven into the nylon.
