5 ways to know if your adventure cat is having a good time

If your cat is always meowing to go outside or running around the house with a mischievous glint in its eyes, then it's time to take it on an adventure! Exploring the great outdoors with your furry companion can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are 5 ways to know that your cat is excited and ready for some Northern Ontario adventures!

• How do you know that your cat might be interested in exploring?

If your cat's favourite spot to perch is staring out the window, or they make a beeline for the door whenever you leave the house, it might be a sign that your cat is interested in exploring!

Make sure you work on harness and backpack training your feline friend before taking them outside. It's a good idea to test the waters in a controlled environment, such as your backyard or balcony, before you try taking them on a hike. My adventure cat, Max, is particularly fond of the beach! Have treats handy for positive reinforcement, and give your cat plenty of attention, especially on the first few times you're out.

• Shouler parrot

If your cat perches on your shoulders as you explore, it means they want a better vantage point, and they feel comfortable!

• Perky ears + tail

This is the easiest way to tell. If your cat's tail and ears are nice and perky, ESPECIALLY if their tail is wagging, it's a sign that they're content!

If your cat has their ears back or is tucking their tail between their legs, they're scared - though this could be because they're in a new environment. Try going into your controlled environment one more time - if they have the same reaction, it's time to start planning some indoor adventures.

• They seem eager to explore

if your cat is sniffing around the area, they're already exploring! If your cat hides away most of the time (be it in their backpack/safe space, in the bushes, under your car...) they're scared shitless.

• Signs your cat isn't suited for outdoor adventures

We touched on a few signs earlier - tail tucking, hiding, etc. Two of the biggest signs are panting, and crying - they make like the world's saddest sounding meow and its heartbreaking!

Realistically, as cat owners, we know our babies - and we know when they're happy, scared, depressed, etc. If your cat is giving you "get me out of here" energy, you'll know.

Once you've mastered the harness and the backpack, and your feline companion is comfortable and happy in their controlled environment, you can start taking them with you on adventures! My Max's favourite spots to explore in The Sault are Gros Cap, Harmony Beach, and Hiawatha Highlands.

Happy adventuring!