Whisker Foundation - Coyote chasing cat

Never Let Your Cat Outdoors | Coyote Dangers in Snohomish County

Many people believe cats need outdoor time to be happy. But in reality, letting your cat roam outside is one of the biggest risks to their safety. In Snohomish County and throughout the Pacific Northwest, outdoor cats face serious dangers — especially from coyotes. At Whisker Foundation, we are committed to keeping cats safe, healthy, and protected for life. One of the best ways to do that is simple: keep your cat indoors.

Coyotes: A Growing Threat in Snohomish County

Coyotes are extremely common in Everett, Lake Stevens, Marysville, Snohomish, and surrounding areas. They adapt well to neighborhoods, greenbelts, parks, and even busy city streets. Unfortunately, small pets — especially cats — are easy prey. Coyotes are most active at dawn, dusk, and nighttime, and many cats disappear without warning.

Other Outdoor Dangers for Cats

Outdoor cats face many hidden dangers, including:

  • Cars and traffic accidents
  • Cruelty or theft
  • Poisoning from pesticides or antifreeze
  • Attacks from dogs or raccoons
  • Exposure to extreme weather
  • Parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms
  • Deadly diseases such as FeLV and FIV

Indoor cats often live two to three times longer than outdoor cats.

Outdoor Cats and Wildlife

Free-roaming cats hunt birds and other wildlife. Keeping cats indoors protects both your pet and local wildlife.

Safe Alternatives to Outdoor Roaming

Cats can live happy lives indoors with:

  • Window perches
  • Interactive toys
  • Scratching posts
  • Cat trees
  • Food puzzle games
  • Supervised leash walks
  • Outdoor catio enclosures

Whisker Foundation Indoor-Only Adoption Policy

At Whisker Foundation, we require adopted cats and kittens to be kept indoors only. This policy protects them from preventable harm and ensures long, healthy lives.

Learn more:

View available cats
Adoption policies and fees
Adoption questionnaire

A Loving Choice That Saves Lives

Letting a cat outside may feel natural, but in today’s world, it is not safe — especially in areas with active coyote populations like Snohomish County. Keeping your cat indoors is one of the most loving and responsible decisions you can make.