Showerthought: I used to just let my cat out when he asked, but now I have a set 'hunt time' before dinner
For years, I'd open the back door whenever my cat, Gus, meowed at it. He'd wander out, maybe catch a bug, and come back in an hour. It felt fine. Then, about six months ago, I started a new routine. I only let him out for a focused 30 minutes right before his evening meal. The change is huge. Before, he'd just loaf in the sun. Now, he's all business, stalking through the tall grass like a tiny lion because he knows dinner is next. He comes back panting and actually tired, not just bored. I think having that clear, short window makes him use the time better instead of just killing time outside. It's cut down on his nighttime zoomies, too. Has anyone else tried something like this with their outdoor cats?